Junior School Kew
Mathematics is all around us Jodi Haines Acting Maths Co-ordinator, Junior School Kew
All too often, mathematics is seen in a world of its own. Mathematics is not just a subject, but an important factor in many everyday decisions. Mathematics can help us to shop sensibly, read maps, buy the correct car, cook a delicious meal, remodel a home within a budget, or tell the time. Mathematics is a way of thinking, a method of solving problems and explaining arguments. Mathematics provides us with opportunities to see relationships and ideas in numerical, graphical, symbolic, verbal and pictorial form. In reality, mathematical concepts can be found in our everyday lives. Mathematics is everywhere! Mathematics was certainly alive within Junior School Kew during our wholeschool Carey Celebrates Maths Week. Students and staff were involved in a number of experiences across the week to delight in this celebration of mathematics, which is in its second year in action. ‘Mathematics is not about numbers, equations, computations, or algorithms: it is about understanding.’ – William Paul Thurston Monday saw students in Year 6 and 7 from both Kew and Donvale campuses came together for an action-packed morning of problem-solving. Their experiences involved thought-provoking activities incorporating collaboration, courage, communication and the sharing of mathematical knowledge. These activities encouraged students to use their skills to determine the answers to
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a range of problems in and out of the Middle School and its classrooms. The students then came together for lunch on Cluny Green before heading to their next activity where they worked through tasks such as anagrams, spot the difference and crosswords. The students were highly engaged and enjoyed the challenges presented to them. Thanks must go to Mr Quinn,
Mrs Partington, Ms Slaney and their teams for organising such a memorable experience for all. Wednesday and Thursday offered the remaining year levels an opportunity to be captivated by a live stage performance like no other. The Primary Maths Show was full of mathematical magic, mystery and mayhem. The show entertained and engaged students while
