Enriching Mathematics in the Primary Curriculum - Practical Classroom

In this review of Enriching Mathematics in the Primary Curriculum the reviewer finds it a practical, classroom-focused resource aimed at new and beginning teachers who want to make maths engaging and meaningful. The book's single biggest reason to buy is its emphasis on talk-rich, open tasks that actively involve children in mathematical thinking, helping to build confident and resilient learners rather than focusing on rote procedures. For teachers seeking hands-on strategies to enliven primary mathematics, this book is a clear and usable companion.

Key Features

• Talk-rich tasks: Provides classroom-ready approaches that encourage mathematical discussion so pupils articulate reasoning and deepen understanding.
• Open-ended activities: Offers practical, flexible tasks that can be adapted across ability ranges to promote problem solving and creativity.
• Conceptual focus: Emphasises understanding key mathematical concepts and the connections between them rather than isolated procedures.
• Curriculum integration: Explores ways to engage children in mathematics across the primary curriculum so lessons feel relevant and connected.
• Beginner friendly: Written for the new and beginning teacher with tried and loved tasks that are easy to implement in busy classrooms.

Who It's For

This book is best for early career primary teachers, trainee teachers on placements and teaching assistants who lead maths sessions and want practical, talk-centred activities to develop pupil confidence and resilience. The tone and examples suit those who value pupil discussion and conceptual exploration over worksheets.

Experienced subject leaders looking for deep theoretical research or a comprehensive scheme of work may need to supplement this book with detailed curriculum documents or assessment materials; it is strongest as a hands-on enrichment resource rather than a full replacement for scheme planning.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Practical activities that are straightforward to introduce into everyday lessons.
• Encourages mathematical talk which supports deeper understanding and pupil confidence.
• Tasks are open and adaptable, useful across mixed-ability groups.

Cons

• Not a full scheme of work or assessment package, so schools will need additional planning resources.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Enriching Mathematics in the Primary Curriculum is a practical and well-focused resource for early career teachers who want to bring maths to life through discussion and open tasks. It is good value as a source of adaptable classroom activities that build confidence and conceptual understanding, though schools seeking a full curriculum scheme will need supplementary materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this book suitable for trainee teachers?
Yes. It is written with new and beginning teachers in mind and includes straightforward, classroom-ready tasks.

Does it provide full lesson plans and assessments?
No. The book focuses on enrichment tasks and conceptual approaches; you will need separate planning and assessment materials for a full scheme.

Can tasks be used with mixed-ability groups?
Yes. Many activities are open-ended and adaptable to support a range of abilities and encourage mathematical reasoning.