Mathematics at key stage 2
Key stages
The National Curriculum for maths is statutory in all maintained, mainstream schools up to and including key stage 4. An appropriate version of the curriculum is used in maintained special schools. Key Stage 2 (KS2) covers years 3-6 (children aged from 8-11 years).
Mathematics at KS2 is divided into three main strands:
- Number and algebra
- Shape, space, measures
- Handling data
In maths at KS2, children work in the following areas of knowledge, skills and understanding:
Number and algebra
- Using and applying numbers: problem solving, communicating, reasoning
- Numbers and the number system: counting, number patterns and sequences, integers, fractions, percentages and ratio, decimals
- Calculations: number operations and the relationship between them, mental methods, written methods, calculator methods
- Solving numerical problems
Shape, space and measures
- Using and applying shape, space and measures: problem solving, communicating, reasoning
- Understanding properties of shape
- Understanding properties of position and movement
- Understanding measures
Handling data
- Using and applying handling data: problem solving, communicating, reasoning
- Processing, representing and interpreting data
During KS2 pupils use the number system more confidently. They move from counting reliably to counting fluently with all four number operations. They always try to tackle a problem with mental methods before using any other approach. Pupils explore features of shapes and space and develop measuring skills in a range of contexts. They discuss and present their methods and reasoning using a wider range of mathematical language, diagrams and charts.
The challenges at KS1 still apply with some additions.
These pages show the challenges that children with these impairments may encounter and how provision can be made to ensure inclusion.
- Autism spectrum disorder focussing on Asperger’s syndrome
- Physical impairment
- Visual impairment
- Hearing impairment
- Dyslexia
- Communication difficulties
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