Improving early numeracy through a pattern and structure mathematics awareness project (PASMAP)

A school-based numeracy initiative, conducted in one NSW metropolitan primary school, trialled an innovative approach to improving mathematics for low achievers. The project involved 683 low-achieving students aged from 5 to 12 years, 27 teachers, and three researchers over a 9-month period. A Pattern and Structure Assessment (PASA) interview and a Pattern and Structure Mathematics Awareness Program (PASMAP) focused on improving students? visual memory, the ability to identify and apply patterns, and to seek structure in mathematical ideas and representations. There was a marked improvement in PASA scores particularly in the early grades and substantial improvements found in school-based and system-wide measures of mathematical achievement.8 page(s