Relevant contexts for learning mathematics

Primary boy at self-servie checkout at the supermarket

These projects used real-life contexts to develop mathematical skills and knowledge. The pupils were able to experience mathematical activities at the local shop, in the hills, at the farm, at the park and in the classroom. Some existing skills were further developed in this way and others were introduced.

For example, the skills of estimation and rounding were practised as pupils saw the need to keep track of their spending when buying the lunch ingredients. The outdoor education teacher introduced specific map work skills, for example distance, direction and description, as the children worked with the maps out of doors.The projects involved working with a range of people within the school and from the wider community.

Partnership working

  • The local farmer provided advice and support for the Humbie Cow Project. He also cared for the cow.

  • The Outdoor Education team used their expertise to help the pupils develop their map-reading skills and to get home safely!

  • The local supermarket staff supported the shopping trip for lunch ingredients.

  • The dining staff helped to ensure health and safety.

  • The local community, including the local film club ('Humbie Box Office'), shared and supported the premiere of the stop-motion animation films.

  • The pupils were working in partnership with each other when teaching younger pupils about Time. This involved lots of discussion and preparation.

Technologies

A variety of different technologies were used. These included:
  • using computers and stop-motion animation equipment
  • using the internet to find out information, for example Google maps for the cow route
  • using practical skills to construct a teaching clock with real mechanisms
  • using a variety of scales for measuring and weighing
  • creating a Beebot game
  • using the self-service checkout at the supermarket.

Related documents

PDF file: Humbie Primary: Peer mentoring in time (534 KB)PDF file: Humbie Primary: Planning and preparing lunch (3.2 MB)PDF file: Humbie Primary: Stop-motion animation premiere (587 KB)PDF file: Humbie Primary: The Humbie cow (442 KB)PDF file: Humbie Primary: Using map work skills to survive (750 KB)

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