Mathematics: Understanding the Score

This resource from Ofsted is a report published in September 2008, based principally on evidence from inspections of mathematics between April 2005 and December 2007 in 192 maintained schools in England. It describes how the best teaching is enthusiastic, knowledgeable and focused clearly on developing students' understanding of important concepts. It describes how good assessment throughout each lesson enables teachers to see how students are thinking and to adjust teaching and learning strategies accordingly. The report’s findings contributed to the review of mathematics led by Sir Peter Williams and published in June 2008.

[b]Mathematics: Understanding the score[/b]

[b]Part A[/b] focuses on the inspection findings in the context of rising standards over the last decade in national tests and examinations.

[b] Part B[/b] discusses the issues underlying the rises in results and describes the essential components of effective mathematics teaching. Illustrative examples and brief commentaries are provided.

There are recommendations for the role of each of the following:

The Department for Children, Schools and Families and the National Strategies

The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority

Training providers and the Training and Development Agency for Schools

The National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics

Schools

[b]Mathematics understanding the score - secondary/primary copy[/b] - are booklets produced by Ofsted to help teachers provide the best possible opportunities for all students. They include the essential features of good mathematics teaching with examples that illustrate prime and weaker aspects of teaching mathematics in both primary and secondary schools.