[senco-forum] differentiation ks2 maths

Is it possible to differentiate the y6 numeracy curriculum for a child

Of course it is possible, given a little thought. We do something similar
for a child in Y5 and have done so before now in Y6.  First, I would use
the tiny steps of the P levels/B Squared materials [these have been
customised by our LA and issued to all schools] as guidance for progress
needing to be made and tracking back to where this child actually is.  I
would also use the NNS Unit Plans for the Year group tracking back has
placed the child in and use ideas from those.  I also make use of
resources from the Clickteaching website - not free, but worth the small
subscription - where some really helpful teachers offer their work already
differentiated into core, support and extension.

Turning a lesson where there is no support into a Problem Solving/Thinking
Maths lesson enables all the children to contribute; you don't need to be
brilliant at the maths in order to see how to tackle the problem - quite
often our children who are poor at number work can suggest what to try,
then those who are better at number etc work it out for the group.

We have always been able to make a small group of children, about 4 or 5,
including the one who is of much poorer ability, and supply them with
self-sustaining activities/games when there is no-one to support in class;
the  classteacher explains what to do and then keeps an occasional eye on
the group.  It is amazing how it can boost confidence for a child to be
part of a group where all are working together and where that child's
contributions are valued - we encourage them to help each other, choosing
others who lack confidence rather than ability and they often gain from
being able to help someone, too.

Perhaps a little success at catering for this child's needs will help the
class teacher to gain more confidence in this area: often, having done
something once, ideas will come thick and fast!

Anyway, I hope this is of some use.

Regards

Jean

S Wales

  Now here is a question to get you all thinking!
> Is it possible to differentiate the y6 numeracy curriculum for a child
> with mild/moderate learning difficulties working at (just) Level 2c?
>
> Y6 teacher says a categorical "no".  I have done all I can to support this
> child 3 times a week (twice with me in a Y5 sen group and once with a TA
> to reinforce concepts / play maths games).  The remaining 2 sessions there
> is no-one to support him, Y6 teacher insists her TA is needed to support
> her level 3 children.
>
> Any ideas?  All gratefully received.
>
> Anusia
> Primary SENCO
>