How to Encourage Mathematical Thinking In Primary Maths Lessons

In this episode of The Primary Maths Podcast, Jon is joined by Kate Henshall and Kat Martin from Rethink Maths for a conversation about lesson design, task design and how we help children move beyond simply completing work towards deeper mathematical thinking.

Kate and Kat share their own experiences of maths at school, including how conceptual understanding, representations and manipulatives transformed the way they thought about the subject. The conversation then explores what we really mean by foundational knowledge in maths, and why that phrase needs careful thought if it is to be useful in classrooms rather than just another piece of educational terminology.

They discuss the importance of knowing what we want children to notice, how teachers can adapt schemes and resources without losing sight of the underlying principles, and why intellectual preparation matters even when high-quality materials are already available. There is also a strong focus on slowing down, asking better questions, choosing representations carefully and creating space for pupils to reason, explain and explore.

Along the way, Jon, Kate and Kat consider the tension between coverage, accountability and deep understanding, as well as the role of oracy, manipulatives, scaffolding and authentic questions in helping children engage more meaningfully with mathematics.

If you are interested in helping pupils think more deeply, make connections and experience maths as something to explore rather than simply complete, this episode is well worth a listen.

Kate Henshall is Education Director at Rethink Maths. She has previously worked as Deputy Director of Education and has experience as a primary teacher, maths leader and mastery specialist.

Kat Martin is Director of Foundations at Rethink Maths. She has previously worked as Head of International Development, supporting foundational numeracy work internationally, and has a background as a primary teacher and senior leader.

You can find out more about Rethink Maths at rethinkmaths.co.uk.

You can connect with Jon on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joncripwell/

You can subscribe to the Primary Maths Podcast Substack at https://primarymathspodcast.substack.com/

To suggest a topic or guest for the podcast, email primarymathspodcast@twinkl.co.uk