Mathematics

Mathematics at JIS

 

Mathematics at JIS is taught using an integrated approach to learning and inquiry whenever possible. Clear standards of expectations are set for each year level and students are encouraged to achieve high standards in all areas of of their learning of Maths. As an authorised I.B. school we are keen to utilise the strategies and skills of inquiry in our Maths. The world of Mathematics has so much that lends itsef to valuable and fun inquiry, so we hope our students can emerge as competent mathematicians but also flexible, dynamic thinkers with an open attitude to problem solving.  

As part of our Programe of Inquiry (POI) links to Mathematics are explored as they allow students to see the links bewteen areas of learning. The links to the POI are not always direct so we have a clear set of standards and expectations for our students and teachers to follow. This is called our Scope and Sequence and allows all students in JIS to learn Maths in a planned, progressive way as they pass through the school.  

The Scope and Sequence has 5 main strands of learning:

Data Handling

Measurement

Shape and Space

Pattren and Function

Number

Each year the students have exposure to all of these starnds, without one having a major priority of importance over the others.

We assess our Mathematics in a variety of ways as the students progess. They are given opportunities to represent the learning and ideas in a whole host of ways and not though book based exercises. The students are tested both before and after new concepts have been introduced and their learning is tracked from teacher to teacher.

JIS students enjoy Mathematics and can apply their ideas and understandings to many of the situations they encounter during their school career. We use a variety of resources to help us plan the curriculum. We do not advocate the use of only one textbook but encourage our teachers to find the most appropriate text, website or learning aid to teach what they need to their students. We have a very international staff who bring with them experience of different learning styles in Mathematics and they are encoraged to share this with their colleagues and students.