Developing primary mathematics skills through a seasonal biodiversity project

Summary/scope

This project aims to understand how a seasonal biodiversity project can shape, build and sustain seasonal biodiversity practices with primary pupils and teachers. The focus of the project is the development of mathematics skills; however, a range of skills, encompassing many areas of the National Curriculum and beyond are being facilitated through the participation in this project. 

Team

• Dr Nasreen Majid
• Mr Ciaran Finnegan (School Mathematics Lead)
• Nature bugs- group of pupils who are working alongside to co-create all aspects of this project.
• Mr Jim Dees (Head Teacher)

Aims

To understand how a primary school can support pupils to develop their mathematical skills through a seasonal biodiversity project. 

To understand the role seasonality plays in pupils’ understanding of nature and their connection with it. 

To build in the work of the National Education Nature Park (NENP) to exemplify the power of shaping biodiverse spaces through the support of the NENP.

Methodology

This project is using a Participatory Action Research (PAR) methodology to capture the different stages of the project development and outcomes. Field notes, observations, photography and end of cycle focus groups have been used to capture key data points.

Additionally, the outcomes of the project will shape a forthcoming CCCSE module showcasing the how mathematics skills can be developed through a seasonal biodiversity project.