Understanding and addressing low attainment in lower secondary mathematics

SEMINAR ABSTRACT

Evidence continues to highlight the problem of low attainment in lower secondary mathematics. In this seminar, I will present the results from the Investigating Mathematical Attainment and Progress (IMAP) project, which was funded by the Nuffield Foundation and focused on low attaining students in Year 9. Drawing on the results of a specially designed test, analysis of the National Pupil Database and interviews with students and teachers, I will discuss what these students understand about mathematics. Then, drawing on a wider systematic review and secondary meta-analysis, I will consider what teaching strategies and other approaches could be used to raise the attainment of these students.