The key to good primary teaching of numeracy and mathematics is confidence in mathematical knowledge and its relevance to the real world. In particular, effective implementation of the National Numeracy Strategy requires student teachers, primary teachers and mathematics coordinators to realize the place of mathematics across the range of National Curriculum subjects.

This book explores mathematics as a set of tools for thinking about, designing, evaluating and changing the world of the child through the broader curriculum, rather than focusing on skills and concept building exclusively in the 'mathematical world.' Practical activities are included to stimulate readers to apply these ideas with confidence both within and beyond the mathematics lesson.

David Coles and Tim Copeland are Senior Lecturers in Primary Education at the Cheltenham and Gloucester College of Higher Education.