Numeracy (Mathematics)
Mathematics is the exploration and use of patterns, relationships, quantities, space and time.
At Kirkwood, we teach 3 main strands of Mathematics: Number and Algebra, Geometry and Measurement and Statistics.
In learning Mathematics, students develop problem solving skills, the ability to think creatively, critically, strategically and logically. Mathematics is taught in ability groups to meet students’ individual needs. Each teacher is responsible for planning and assessment, however teams work collaboratively to moderate, share and evaluate results to ensure consistency is maintained across classes.
Literacy
The school has an active focus on Literacy; Reading, Writing, Speaking and Viewing. We see this as core component for all our children’s growth. Current best practice in Literacy is evident in all our classrooms with staff attending professional development sessions in this area.
All classroom teachers ensure that their Literacy programme is carefully planned and delivered to meet the needs of every student within their classroom.
Themes
At Kirkwood we choose to teach integrated units in an authentic context. To this end, we organise themes, or topics, for each term at each year level. These themes may change as teams develop their units of work based on the interests and needs of the children. Some curriculum areas are best taught as stand alone units – for instance, “Keeping Ourselves Safe” because we have identified a special programme or need. A variety of teaching methods, including Inquiry, are used. These methods are chosen by the teaching teams based on the unit and the needs of the children.