Visual representations in the primary classroom

Knowing how to use external representations (e.g. diagrams) of mathematical concepts is an important part of teachers’ specialized knowledge of the subject.

• The project aims to develop teachers’ use of visual representations, specifically for multiplication and fractions, two areas of difficulty for primary pupils.
• It will involve eight primary mathematics coordinators who, with input from researchers, will plan and implement a teaching programme using visual representations of multiplication/fractions.
• The impact of the teaching programme will be measured through pupil tests, observations of teaching, interviews with teachers and interviews with pupils.
• Direct outcomes of the project will be the development and evaluation of teaching programmes for the primary classroom utilising visual representations of multiplication and fractions.
• Broader outcomes will include professional development for the teachers involved and the dissemination of findings to teachers throughout the UK through professional publications and the NCETM website.