Instruction for Mathematics and Science in Primary and Lower Secondary Grades
Grade at Which Specialist Teachers for Mathematics and Science are Introduced
At Key Stage 2, students typically are taught by a general classroom teacher; they typically do not encounter subject specialists until they join secondary school. However, some schools in England now employ primary mathematics specialists (and the Department of Education pays a higher bursary for these trainees). Throughout Key Stage 3, subjects typically are taught by subject specialists.
Instructional Materials, Equipment, and Laboratories
There are no centrally published or mandated books for teaching mathematics or science in English schools. It is unusual for primary schools to have science laboratories, but nearly all secondary schools have laboratories.
The national curriculum includes guidelines for instruction in both mathematics and science, which emphasize the following:
- Acquiring the skills and understanding to explore mathematical and scientific concepts and theories
- Developing appropriate vocabulary for mathematics and science
- Developing strong problem solving and inquiry skills
Use of Technology
Computers are used widely in schools. Most teachers have access to a computer, but the number of computers available for student use varies. It is more common for secondary school students to have access to computers, but their use in mathematics and science lessons varies. Internet access and technical support are available in all secondary schools. Primary schools now provide students access to computers, but because they are smaller, primary schools typically have fewer computers than secondary schools. The majority of computers in primary schools are connected to the Internet, and it is typical now for primary schools to employ technical support staff. Schools at both the primary and secondary levels are equipped with interactive whiteboards, and staff are expected to make full use of these and other technologies.
In the current mathematics national curriculum, calculators are used at both the primary level (from the end of Key Stage 2) and the secondary level.
Accommodation Policies for Instruction and Testing
There are clear guidelines for supporting children with special education needs and/or disabilities (SEND) in education (ages 0 to 25), and these comprise a SEND Code of Practice.19 At Key Stage 2 (age 11), students who require additional support have access to arrangements such as note takers, extra time, and/or in-class teaching assistance. Due to the diversity of student needs, the guidelines do not provide an exhaustive list of circumstances requiring access arrangements. Schools are encouraged to use a holistic approach when considering the needs of students during key stage tests; they are advised to review additional support as part of normal classroom practice and based on other requirements.20