Mathematical talk in the primary classroom

Abstract

The aim of this research is to explore how to stimulate discussion in the Mathematics classroom. Drawing on relevant literature, a set of activities on Measurement, were developed for Year 4 pupils. The activities were carried out during the summer school, however they can be carried out during mathematics lessons as part of the curriculum. The activities were conducted by the researchers themselves with a group of three pupils of the same gender and of mixed ability, whilst recordings, photos and notes where taken for the purposes of analysis. Verbal interaction (teacher - pupil or pupil - pupil) was later transcribed and analysed in terms of the quantity and quality of mathematical talk. Concluding the amount of talk generated by the six activities is rather satisfactory. The quantity and quality of talk generated was as desired since the greater amount of talk consisted of reflective statements.