Materials

These materials exemplify the ideas and approaches adopted in the Standards Unit pilot. To get best value from them, we recommend that you use them in association with the guidance and other materials in the resource.

The following are some specific hints and guidance:
• These sessions are offered as examples of the approaches to teaching and learning that we have developed in our pilot. They have all been revised and developed in the light of the trials but you should still regard them as examples and suggestions that you can build on.
• They are not prescriptive nor is there any attempt to 'cover' any particular syllabus or specification.

Levels of challenge
A: Adult Numeracy, Key Skills Application of Number Level 1, FSMQ Level 1, GCSE E-G
B: Adult Numeracy, Key Skills Application of Number Level 2, GCSE D-F
C: Key Skills Application of Number Level 3, FSMQ Level 2, GCSE A-D
D: AS, A2, FSMQ Level 3

Remember that these are only indications. Every session includes suggestions for differentiating within your group. Many sessions can be adapted for use at higher or lower levels of challenge.

Categories
The sessions have been grouped into categories such as 'Mostly number' or 'Mostly algebra'. These categories are provided for guidance only; many of the sessions contain rich activities that explore a range of mathematical topics.

Structure of the materials
• The first page of each session describes the starting points and learning goals and the materials that should be prepared in advance.
• The next two pages describe the process and activities of the session.
• The remaining pages are photocopiable resources for you to use in the session.

The underpinning rationale of all these materials is that they encourage discussion, reflection and active learning. We have not repeated this point in every session; it is up to you to make the most of the opportunities created by the materials.

• The section 'Reviewing and extending learning' includes suggestions which could be followed up either in the same session or at a later session.
• The section 'What learners might do next' describes learning activities that are probably best suited to a later session.
• The section 'Further ideas', which appears in most sessions, includes suggestions for other learning activities based on the session and, particularly, cross-references to other sessions.

Professional development materials
The professional development materials provide session plans and resources to enable groups of teachers, trainers and managers to explore the implications of the teaching and learning approaches described in the rest of the resource. It can also be used to contribute to a continuing professional development programme for teachers and trainers.

HEALTH and SAFETY
Any use of a resource that includes a practical activity must include a risk assessment. Please note that collections may contain ARCHIVE resources, which were developed at a much earlier date. Since that time there have been significant changes in the rules and guidance affecting laboratory practical work. Further information is provided in our Health and Safety guidance.

• URL: http://stem.org.uk/cxb5