Journey into Maths

This innovative mathematics course for years 7 and 8, was the result of a piece of development work undertaken by two South Nottinghamshire comprehensive schools, in association with the Shell Centre for Mathematical Education, during the years 1973-6. It arose out of previous work on the preparation of suitable material for year 7 mixed ability classes. It was innovative in that its main focus was on exploring the use of practical materials such as simple concrete materials, geoboards, pegboards, pattern shapes, matchsticks, number rods and blocks, point lattices and grids and in carrying out mathematical investigations. The authors were interested not only in providing materials but also in exploring ideas about syllabus content and teaching method. In particular they wanted to see how far pupils of this age could go in the investigation of mathematical situations for themselves, leading to the drawing of conclusions, the making of generalisations and the giving of explanations and proofs. They wanted to see whether this could be done in the context of the normal syllabus, and what effect it would have on all-round mathematical attainment, both immediately and in subsequent years. The suggested organisation for the material was that during a given unit of time (about 2 1/2 weeks) the whole class works in the same general field but with differentiation of the particular problems attempted by individuals. Typically the unit will begin with a situation discussed by the teacher with the class; then the investigation is continued by pupils working on their own or, more often, in pairs. The teacher then gives extension questions to different groups of pupils as and when they are ready for them. Two teacher's guides were produced as well as sets of worksheets, which could be photocopied, for each topic. Number skills were catered for in two separate booklets.