TALK LIKE MATHEMATICIANS

At Thameside, we aim to help every child develop confidence and clarity when talking about their mathematical thinking. As part of this, each year group learns about a mathematician - carefully selected from history or from the present day - whose work supports the ideas they are exploring in class. This gives pupils opportunities to see how mathematical thinking has been used in different times and places, and how it continues to matter today.

We are also focusing on developing pupils’ mathematical talk. Using discussion strategies and talk stems informed by Voice 21 approaches, we support children to explain their reasoning, respond to others, use accurate vocabulary, and take part in purposeful classroom discussion. These routines help pupils build confidence in expressing their ideas and understanding the ideas of others.

Below, you can meet our chosen mathematicians and also download our Oracy Maths Mats, which are being piloted across the school in 2025-26 to support structured mathematical talk.

By combining these elements, we aim to make mathematical thinking clear, shared and accessible for all pupils.