Maths vocabulary

A primary maths lead in an area of high social and economic deprivation explains how a mastery approach to teaching precise mathematical vocabulary is giving pupils in her school a voice.

A transcript (PDF) of this episode is available to download.

Show notes Taking part in the discussion:

• Julia Thomson, Communications Manager at the NCETM
• Victoria Moore, maths lead and Year 5 teacher, Usworth Colliery Primary School.

Episode chapters

• 00:06 – Introductions and school context
• 02:10 – How the school’s approach to teaching maths vocabulary has changed
• 03:40 – The purpose of using ambitious, higher-level maths vocabulary
• 05:32 – The approach to vocabulary across the school
• 07:00 – How staff have adapted to using higher-level maths vocabulary
• 09:59 – The impact on pupils
• 13:12 – Benefits of teaching maths vocabulary for higher attainers
• 16:00 – Explicit teaching of mathematical vocabulary

Useful links

• Curriculum Prioritisation Materials
• Primary Professional Development Materials
• Find your hub. .