Constantly revisiting basic number skills is the key

It is quite common to witness even Year 11 mathematicians - who clearly have much ability in some of the more traditional challenging topics - such as aspects of algebra, not having fully grasped the basics.

It all goes back to a thorough understanding of place value.  Recognising the value of each digit.  Regularly students tell me that to, "...divide by 10, you just need to take the zero away".  Really?  So how do we take the zero away, when dividing 45 by 10?

With a firm understanding of place value, can students accurately add, subtract, multiply and divide large and small numbers (involving decimals)?

• How do you add fractions with different denominators?
• What is the difference between a multiple and factor?  Commonly confused!
• How is your maths vocabulary?  Multiply, times, product

Only once we have a thorough understanding of numbers and how to make accurate calculations from them, can we apply to problem solving situations at the appropriate skill level.

Contact maths-starters.net for engaging and effective teaching and learning of mathematics.

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