Since the beginning, the maths curriculum has favoured the methodical thinker. So, what does this mean for our creative children?

It is apparent that maths is not as suited to our creative thinkers as it is to our methodical thinkers – particularly when we consider that there can only be one answer to a maths question, and the steps taken to get to this answer are often stringent and methodical.

Which is perhaps why some pupils find mathematical concepts incredibly difficult to grasp.

Fortunately, with the Open-ended Maths Investigations series you can now both inspire and engage your creative thinkers by introducing an optional element of creativity into their maths lessons.

The activities in the series encourage pupils to apply higher order mathematical strategies creatively and effectively – enabling pupils to develop proficiency in a wide range of problem-solving strategies.

Indeed, the investigations are designed to allow pupils to bring their own thinking and learning strategies to the task. Some pupils will work systematically and logically. Some will draw pictures to make sense of situations and yet others will plunge in using a trial and error approach, fixing up any mistakes and refining their thinking as they go along.

Furthermore, the Open-ended Maths Investigations can be used in isolation, in sequence, or dipped into as teachers require, providing a great supplement to every maths scheme of work.

The Open-ended Maths Investigations series is matched to the following strands of mathematics: number, money, measurement, space, chance and data, and patterns and algebra.

You can order the Open-ended Maths Investigations for Primary Schools Bundle for just £40. Or you can buy the books separately as printed versions (£15.99 each) or as e-book versions (£10.99 each), letting you start your pupils investigating straightaway, at the links below.

Open-ended Maths Investigations for 5–7 Year Olds

Open-ended Maths Investigations 7–9 Year Olds

Open-ended Maths Investigations 9–11 Year Olds

Alternatively, you can order Open-ended Maths Investigations:

• by phone on 01449 766629

• by fax on 01449 768047

• by email to orders@tradecounter.co.uk

• or by post to Brilliant Publications, Mendlesham Industrial Estate, Norwich Road, Mendlesham, Suffolk, IP14 5ND.