A maths working wall is an interactive display in a classroom that showcases and supports mathematical learning. It's designed to be a dynamic resource that evolves with the current learning topics.
Key Features of a Maths Working Wall
Maths working walls are not static posters; they are actively used by both teachers and students. Here's a breakdown of their characteristics:
- Visual Representation: They provide a visual display of mathematical concepts, often including diagrams, charts, and graphs.
- Written Methods: As per the reference, a primary function of a maths working wall is to allow children to see written methods for calculations. This ensures students can refer to them when working on similar problems.
- Mathematical Language: They help students absorb the mathematical language used in a particular area of the subject. This is essential for building mathematical fluency and confidence.
- Interactive Element: The walls encourage interaction; students might add their own work, contribute to the display, or use it as a reference during their tasks.
- Differentiated Challenges: They offer differentiated challenges to extend learning for children of all abilities. This can include extra problems, alternative approaches, or more complex concepts.
Why Use a Maths Working Wall?
These dynamic displays offer several benefits:
- Visual Learning: Provides a visual anchor for mathematical ideas, which can be helpful for visual learners.
- Ongoing Reference: Acts as a readily accessible resource that students can use independently.
- Reinforcement: Helps reinforce concepts learned in class by presenting them in a new context.
- Active Engagement: Promotes active engagement with maths and encourages students to take ownership of their learning.
- Support & Scaffolding: Provides support for all learners, from those who are just beginning to grasp a new concept to those who are ready for more advanced challenges.
What Might be Included?
A maths working wall is always tailored to the current learning. You might typically see:
- Key Vocabulary: Words and phrases related to the current topic.
- Number lines: To aid understanding of number sequences and magnitude.
- Examples of Calculations: Showing the steps involved in different methods.
- Student Work: To showcase best practices and varied approaches.
- Problem-Solving Strategies: Outlining various methods to tackle maths problems.
- Open-ended questions: To encourage deeper thinking and discussion.
How to Create a Useful Maths Working Wall
Here are some tips:
- Keep it Current: Update the display regularly to reflect the current learning focus.
- Make it Interactive: Ensure that students can easily add to, change, or refer to the information.
- Use Clear & Concise Language: Keep text brief and easy to understand.
- Include Visuals: Use colour, diagrams, and images to enhance visual appeal.
- Involve Students: Get students involved in creating and updating the wall to encourage ownership.
Example
For example, if learning about fractions, the wall might contain:
- Definitions of numerator and denominator.
- Visual representations of fractions (e.g., pie charts).
- Examples of fraction calculations.
- Student-made fraction models.
- Challenge questions related to fraction equivalence.
In essence, a maths working wall is a valuable tool that supports learning, promotes engagement, and helps students develop their mathematical understanding.
