Using Mathematics across the Curriculum
Applying Mathematical Concepts to Real-World Examples
One of the main challenges when developing Cross-Curricular Skills is how to apply subject area learning to a different context in another subject. The ability to transfer skills is a key component of the Northern Ireland Curriculum when preparing young people for life and work.
These units of work for Key Stage 3 have been written in collaboration with classroom teachers. They show teachers how to present the Cross-Curricular Skill of Using Mathematics in the classroom. Using these resources, teachers can introduce pupils to key mathematical concepts, and then show them how to reinforce and apply this learning to other subjects across the wider curriculum.
Each unit consists of a series of lessons supporting the teaching, learning and assessment of a specific topic.
Mathematics Unit
The lessons in the Mathematics unit focus on learning fundamental mathematical concepts. They also give pupils opportunities to apply these concepts in a relevant scenario.
Other Subject Units
The lessons produced for other subjects demonstrate how pupils can use the knowledge and understanding they have gained in the Mathematics unit. Pupils develop their mathematical skills in the new subject by working collaboratively, gaining a better understanding of the mathematics involved.
Mathematics and Geography Unit of Work
Mathematics Unit – Constructing and Interpreting Bar Charts and Line Graphs
In these lessons, pupils learn how to construct and interpret bar charts and line graphs. They also work with different kinds of graphs. They study information related to Handling Data and practise using this information in real-life contexts using the worksheets provided.
Geography Unit – Population
This unit focuses on population. In these lessons, pupils practise their skills in analysing graphs.
They learn about changes in world population by completing and interpreting population graphs. They also learn about population pyramids and use this knowledge to relate the shape of a country’s population pyramid to its level of economic development.
Teachers’ Booklet – Resources and Worksheets
These units of work for Key Stage 3 learners show teachers how to apply and reinforce learning from Mathematics across the wider curriculum. They support the development of the Cross-Curricular Skill of Using Mathematics. When using these lessons in class, the Mathematics unit of work should come before the Geography unit of work.
Mathematics and Home Economics Unit of Work
Mathematics Unit – Money Management
This unit focuses on aspects of financial capability, such as budgeting and how to get the best value for money.
Pupils gain experience in considering needs and wants. They have opportunities to create a budget, estimate spending and consider the best value for money when shopping.
Home Economics Unit – Make Your Money Go Further
This unit focuses on further exploration of needs and wants.
Pupils use games and a case study to examine budgeting, needs and wants, and value for money when planning a family meal using the skills and knowledge gained in the Mathematics classroom.
Teachers’ Booklet – Resources and Worksheets
These units of work for Key Stage 3 pupils show teachers how to apply and reinforce learning from Mathematics across the wider curriculum. They support the development of the Cross-Curricular Skill of Using Mathematics. When using these lessons in class, the Mathematics unit of work should come before the Home Economics unit of work.