Language plays a vital role in pupil’s development. Much learning takes place through the interaction of language and experience. Language helps the pupil to clarify and interpret experience, to acquire new concepts, and to add depth to concepts already grasped. In view of this crucial relationship between language and learning the curriculum incorporates the use of talk and discussion as a central learning strategy (Introduction to Primary School Curriculum 1999, p.15).

Maths talk is a great way for pupils to collaborate where the teacher and pupils use discourse to support the mathematical learning of all. A range of mathematical activities can be used and few resources are required. Check out the Odd One Out, Headline Stories and Number Talk activities below to start exploring the benefits of Maths talk.

If you enjoyed Maths Talk, STEM Smaointe will explore talk and discussion using Same but Different tasks in their next publication. If you would like to subscribe please click here. This information will be used solely for the purpose of issuing STEM Smaointe and updates from PDST Primary STEM. Access will be limited to PDST personnel and the PDST Primary STEM administrative staff, who are employed by education centres.

In addition to this we are delighted to offer you bespoke school support, where a skilled advisor will provide contextualised school support during and after school hours. If you wish to apply for school support please visit  https://dms.pdst.ie/support/login using your school roll number and the password: school support2020. Finally, there are  a variety of resources on our website https://www.pdst.ie/Mathematics to support schools in mathematics.

Have fun and please feel free to share photos with us on Twitter tagging @PDSTPrimarySTEM and @ScoilnetPrimary. We’d love to see how your pupils are enjoying Maths Talk.

PDST Primary STEM Team

Check out the following activities