I Can't Do Maths!: Why children say it and how to make a difference

(Paperback)

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An insightful, myth-busting book based on one core belief: maths doesnt have to be scary! Exploring the many myths around teaching and learning mathematics, this book offers practical strategies to implement new ways of thinking and inspire teacher and pupil confidence in every primary maths lesson. Whether youre an ECT finding your way around the maths curriculum, or an experienced teacher looking to boost your practice, this book is full of in-depth case studies, inventive lesson ideas and easy-to-digest theory to make maths enjoyable and accessible for you and your pupils. From 'maths is always right or wrong' to 'maths is for some people not others', Professor Alf Coles and Professor Nathalie Sinclair explain why these common dogmas inhibit learners and contribute to the maths anxiety that many children and even teachers face. Other chapters include a practical focus, explaining ideas such as choral counting in steps as a whole class and presenting a maths question as a 'soap opera', as well as real-life case studies for using Cuisenaire rods and climate change statistics to engage and inspire pupils. This is the perfect book for primary teachers looking to reignite a love of mathematics in their classroom and improve learning outcomes for all pupils.

Reviews

A fusion of theory, experiences and practical support for everyone who teaches mathematics. -- John Bee, teacher and senior leader, @mrbeeteach
Two great minds argue against five prevalent dogmas that constrain mathematics learning. They offer alternatives based on extensive reading, research and years of classroom experience a stimulating, challenging book. -- Anne Watson, Emeritus Professor of Mathematics Education, University of Oxford, @annemathswatson
Manipulatives, symbols, chanting, soap opera maths, power fingers, motion - all this and more in 140 pages. "I Can't Do Maths!" - Yes, you can! -- Liam Murphy, Assistant Head * @PrimaryIdeas *
Hats off to Professor Alf Cole & Professor Nathalie Sinclair for this fine piece of work. -- Paul Watson, Teacher * @PaulWatson *
Challenges many views some would not even realise they have about maths, fantastic read! -- Reviewer * Amazon *

Author Bio

Alf Coles is a professor of Mathematics Education and Deputy Head of School at the University of Bristols School of Education. Alf worked in secondary schools for 15 years as a maths teacher, head of maths and assistant headteacher. Alf has co-authored or authored three academic books on mathematics education. Follow Alf on Twitter @AlfColes. Nathalie Sinclair is a professor in the Faculty of Education at Simon Fraser University in Canada. She holds the Canada Research Chair in Tangible Mathematics Learning at Simon Fraser and was previously a middle school teacher of mathematics and French. In March 2017, she was named Canada's Mathematics Ambassador by Partners in Research for her contributions to the field of mathematics. In 2019, she was awarded the Svend Pedersen Lecture Award