In the Classroom
As mentioned in the last newsletter, at St Anthony’s, we focus on building strong number sense – helping students understand how numbers work so they can become confident and capable mathematicians. Here is another short video focusing on the concept of ‘subitising’. Subitising is the ability to instantly recognise the number of objects in a small group without counting them individually, such as identifying a “3” on a die.
We encourage you to explore the concept of subitising and try out some of the ideas at home – just a few minutes here and there can make a big difference!
Mathematics Practice at Home
Don’t forget that at St Anthony’s, students have access to Times Tables Rock Stars (TTRS) (Years 3–6) and NumBots (Foundation–Year 2). These engaging online programs help build fluency and confidence with numbers through fun, game-based practice.
TTRS is a program designed to build fast and accurate recall of multiplication facts. Its purpose is to develop students’ times table fluency, which supports success in more complex maths. CLICK HERE to access an introduction video for parents/carers to TTRS.
NumBots is an interactive program that develops number sense and mental addition and subtraction skills. Its purpose is to build strong foundations in early number, helping students become confident and flexible with basic calculations. CLICK HERE to access an introduction video for parents/carers to Numbots.
Both platforms can be accessed at home on a smart phone, tablet or computer: Posters and QR Codes have been displayed around the school advertising the programs and providing easy access by simply scanning the QR Code.
Your child may already know their login details but if not they are available from your child’s classroom teacher.
PLEASE NOTE: If you do not want your child/ren accessing technology at home there are hard copy options for both TTRS and Numbots available. These options include take-home activity sheets and/or booklets. Please see your child’s classroom teacher if you would like to access these.
Where possible, we encourage students to spend 3 to 5 minutes, roughly 4 or 5 times a week, practising at home – regular, short practice can make a big difference in developing strong maths skills.
Remember – the only way to learn mathematics is TO DO mathematics!