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Workbook 4: Term 4, Weeks 31 – 40
Introduction for the facilitator
Impaq’s approach to mathematics in Grade 1
Mathematics helps to develop mental processes that enhance logical thinking. Using maths effectively equips learners to apply mathematical concepts in real-life and the knowledge of basic mathematical concepts help them do calculations and solve problems. Number concept is the foundation of maths and enables learners to master the subject.
To teach maths effectively in Grade 1 requires learning opportunities, interactions and practical demonstrations focused on developing the learners’ skills to work with numbers and do calculations. The programme for the year contains 20 learning units spread over 40 weeks. Each unit covers two weeks and comprises 10 days or two weeks.
Each day has three maths sessions that cover one or more of these areas: • Numbers, operations and relationships • Patterns, functions and algebra • Space and shape • Measurement • Data handling
Numbers, operations and relationships
Numbers, operations and relationships are an integral part of maths. During these sessions, learners are introduced to basic number concepts and encouraged to reinforce what they have learned by attaching a value to a number without thinking about it. Learners who understand the number concept will do well in mental maths and calculations.
Make sure learners have enough opportunity to master these fundamental concepts before moving on to something more challenging. As soon as learners are familiar with numbers, mental maths becomes important because it allows them to demonstrate their understanding of maths.
Numbers, operations and relationships include oral, practical and written activities to introduce new concepts and reinforce concepts already taught.
Patterns, functions and algebra
Patterns, functions and algebra are very important in Grade 1. Learners are introduced to patterns other than shapes. The concept develops logical thinking and is the basis of all operations. Maths is the science of numbers and the patterns they create; encourage learners throughout the year to recognise different patterns.
Patterns, functions and algebra teach learners to recognise patterns in real life as well as different shapes and numbers. The patterns are visible in different operations and help learners to understand more difficult concepts.
Space and shape
Learners must develop a good understanding of their position in space (on top, under, left, right) and name spaces not yet filled (top left, below). Although it may appear to be an easy concept to master, learners’ experience of recognising shapes is the same as recognising numbers – naming
