Connecting Teachers to Mathematics Strategy with Kieran Mackle, Mind the Gap, Ep. 40 (S2E15)

For this episode, Tom and Emma chat with Kieran Mackle, an author, podcast host, and primary school maths leader. The conversation begins with a discussion on mathematics strategy for teachers. Kieran’s most recent book, Thinking Deeply About Primary Mathematics, discusses hundreds of strategies for teachers with researched and practiced methodologies. One major topic that Tom, Emma, and Kieran discuss is the structural discourse around maths education and foundational learning, particularly pedagogical differences concerning mental maths and formal algorithm. Kieran puts forth a system of using consistency as a goal for a national curriculum that focuses on skill generation and mathematical fluency rather than content coverage. Kieran’s philosophy largely stems from mathematical maturation, a concept from Mark McCourt’s book Teaching For Mastery, a seminal work on the subject. Visit edCircuit.com to watch this episode.

Later in the discussion, the group focuses on scheme implementation in primary mathematics. Kieran focuses primarily on the power of time when it comes to introducing pedagogical schemes into primary learning. Taking time to decide on a scheme and evaluate its potency is essential.

About the participants:

Kieran Mackle is a 15+ year primary mathematics educator and leader. He is also the author of several books and articles including Tackling Misconceptions in Primary Mathematics and Thinking Deeply About Primary Mathematics. In addition, Kieran hosts the Thinking Deeply About Primary Education [TDAPE] podcast, inviting educators to discuss strategies, problems, and solutions facing primary education today. Follow Kieran on Twitter @Kieran_M_Ed

Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead

Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75