Maths - Calculation Processes
Help your child flourish in maths by understanding how we teach at Kingsnorth! We follow the NCETM Maths Mastery framework, which focusses on building a deep, lasting confidence with numbers, so every child can succeed.
At Kingsnorth Church of England Primary School, our approach to teaching maths is rooted in a clear sequence of progression—moving children step-by-step from practical experience to mental calculation and written methods. We ensure pupils build a deep, long-term understanding by using the Concrete, Pictorial, Abstract (CPA) framework alongside key mastery principles.
The 3-Step Learning Continuum
Every mathematical concept is introduced using physical objects before transitioning to visual models and standard written algorithms.
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1. Concrete (Hands-On Experience): Pupils start with physical manipulatives such as rekenreks, ten-frames, Base 10 blocks, place value counters, and arrays. This allows pupils to physically handle and construct mathematical concepts.
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2. Pictorial (Visual Representation): Children translate their concrete experiences into visual models. We rely heavily on part-part-whole models, bar models, equal group drawings, area models, and number lines to help pupils visualise relationships between numbers.
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3. Abstract (Symbolic Calculation): Once conceptual understanding is secure, pupils apply formal mathematical symbols, standard column operations, long multiplication/division, and fraction algorithms.
Core Mathematical Processes We Teach
Our curriculum develops fluencies across all four operations through structured, small-step progression.
| Process | Early Years & Key Stage 1 | Lower Key Stage 2 | Upper Key Stage 2 |
| Addition & Subtraction |
• Subitising and unitising • Part-part-whole relationships • Number bonds using ten-frames & rekenreks |
• Column addition and subtraction • Fact-family connections • Bar modelling for multistep word problems |
• Multi-digit column operations • Decimal and fraction addition/subtraction • Inverse operation checks |
| Multiplication & Division |
• Equal grouping and sharing • Skip counting and doubling/halving • Array representations |
• Commutativity and scaling • Area models and formal short multiplication/division • Times table fact retrieval (up to 12 times 12) |
• 2-digit long operations • Derived facts (e.g., 6 times 7 = 42, therefore 60 times 7 = 420) • Ratio tables, factor pairs, and percentages |
Parent Cheat Sheet: How You Can Support at Home
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Ask "How do you know?": Encourage your child to explain their thinking instead of just giving the final answer.
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Use Stem Sentences: Help them state mathematical rules out loud (e.g., "If I know 6 times 7 = 42, then I know 60 times 7 = 420").
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Short Daily Practice: Focus on strategy and patterns rather than stress.
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KS2 Pupils: Aim for Times Tables Rock Stars at least 3 times a week.
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Quick Games: Try White Rose One Minute Maths or Topmarks: Hit the Button.
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