Understanding and Enriching Problem Solving in Primary Mathematics: (Critical Teaching)

This up to date book is essential reading for all those teaching or training to teach primary mathematics. Problem solving is a key aspect of teaching and learning mathematics, but also an area where teachers and pupils often struggle. Set within the context of the new primary curriculum and drawing on research and practice, the book identifies the key knowledge and skills required in teaching and learning problem solving in mathematics, and examines how these and can be applied in the classroom. It explores the issues in depth while remaining straightforward and relevant, emphasises the enrichment of maths through problem-solving, and provides opportunities for teachers to reflect on and further develop their classroom practice.

Table of Contents:
Introduction – the importance of problem solving, including the current context of curriculum and OfSTED focus on problem solving, enrichment and the structure of the book What is problem solving? (Types of problems and processes for problem solving) Representing problems (Interpreting and comprehending problems, Influence of language, prior knowledge, importance of estimation) Reasoning with problems (the role of mathematical thinking in problem solving) Reflecting on your answers (Problem posing and creativity) Keeping it real? (Investigations and mathematical modeling) Enrichment and engagement in mathematics through problem solving Summary

About the Author :
Patrick Barmby is a Lecturer in Primary Mathematics at Durham University and is the Programme Director for the BA Primary Education course at Durham. Patrick’s area of research is in primary mathematics, with a particular focus on developing children’s understanding in maths. He has also carried out research projects on developing teachers’ knowledge in primary maths. For him, one of the best parts of teaching on the Primary Education degree at Durham University is not only influencing student teachers’ practice in primary maths, but also being influenced himself by the wealth of experiences and expertise from the classroom that students bring to the sessions. David Bolden is a Lecturer in Mathematics Education  at Durham University. After earning his first degree from Newcastle University he went on to teach and obtain an MSc in Social Research. In 1999 he took up a research post at the University of Northumbria where he stayed for six years, primarily conducting evaluation research and lecturing on ITE programmes. While at Northumbria, he completed his doctoral thesis at Durham University, focusing on primary teachers’ epistemological views of mathematics. He moved to Durham University’s School of Education in 2006, where he teaches on the BA Primary Education, PGCE Primary Education and the MSc Mathematics Education courses. His research interests include, and he has published in the areas of, creativity in mathematics, the use of representations in developing confidence and understanding in mathematics and teacher epistemologies (particularly in relation to primary mathematics). Lynn Thompson is an educational consultant and founder of North East School Support (NESS), supporting schools to raise standards and improve the teaching and learning of mathematics. She also teaches part time on the Primary BA and PGCE courses at Durham University. 

Review :
I like the fact that it is focused on problem solving and relates to the new curriculum. The chapters are structured clearly with Key Issues identified early for ease of finding relevant sections. Reflections and questions are useful to direct student teachers toward in being 'active' readers. This will be particularly supportive of specialist student teachers and those who wish to develop more 'open approaches' (a useful section in the book). There is nothing that stands out to dislike. What I liked about the book:   a. Contents cover a good range of topics b. Good mix of theory and practice c. The use of critical questions and reflections enables students to think about and develop their subject knowledge and classroom practice   d. Clarity of the information There was nothing I particularly disliked! The book allows for easy navigation in terms of finding discussion/information on specific aspects of mathematics. Concrete examples related to Primary maths given to back up key points. I particularly like that it engages the reader in questioning their knowledge and/or developing practice.