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Numeracy in Key Stage 3 keeps pace with each child's ability. In line with the Northern Ireland curriculum all aspects of maths are covered, again lessons are geared towards each pupil's level.

Processes, Number, Measures, Shape and Space and Handling Data are all covered each year.

Numeracy lessons in Beechlawn in Key Stage 3 are carefully planned to keep each pupil on task and involved using a multi-sensory approach. This involves the use of board games, interactive computer games and practical hands on maths.

We have a new superbly resourced Life Skills room where pupils have the opportunity to use their maths skills in every day situations such as the bank, post office and shopping.

Last year we celebrated World Maths Day for the first time. KS3 pupils took part in a worldwide mental arithmetic challenge on www.worldmathsday.com on World Maths Day - 4^th March '09

This was a truly unique world event and a fantastic way to promote numeracy in Beechlawn. Results showed that students made significant improvements in their mental arithmetic skills and had great fun in the process.

Pupils played against each other in mental arithmetic games. Students were captivated by the fact that they were playing in real time. Each game lasted for 60 seconds; pupils played as many games as they wished. The questions were appropriately levelled for different ages and abilities.
Pupils can practised for weeks beforehand with relatives and neighbours computers being used over the weekends even the enthusiasm was so great with many pupils. The feedback from parents and pupils alike was great with all the pupils really enjoying it and wanting to play again and again. After one or two games, they were hooked!

Steven McLaughlin must've spent every spare minute he had challenging other pupils across the world as he was Beechlawn's top scorer with a fabulous 2718 points! Well done Steven!

Let's hope next March brings the same excitement and no doubt huge improvement in our mental maths! Who will be Beechlawn's champion in 2010?

Here's to seeing our pupils enjoy and improve their mental maths skills!