Podcast

Using number lines in Key Stage 2

We explore how number lines can be used at KS2 to support children to develop a greater understanding of the linear number system and prepare them for secondary maths

10/08/2023

Using number lines in Key Stage 2

We explore how number lines can be used at KS2 to support children to develop a greater understanding of the linear number system and prepare them for secondary maths.

A transcript (PDF) of this episode is available to download.

Show notes

Taking part in the discussion:

  • Jennifer Ruddock, deputy headteacher, Corrie Primary School, Denton
  • Jordanna Worrall, head of maths, Denton Community College, Denton
  • Julia Morgans, Maths Hub Lead, Turing North West Maths Hub
  • Julia Thomson, Communications Manager at the NCETM.

Episode chapters

  • 00:05 – Introduction
  • 02:23 – Why participants in the Work Group focused on the number line
  • 06:25 – Exploring use of the number line at KS2
  • 09:06 – Why drawing and understanding number lines is important at KS3 and beyond
  • 11:20 – The importance of collaboration between KS2 and KS3 for progression
  • 12:40 – How KS2 teachers can prepare children for KS3 maths using number lines
  • 14:44 – Using number lines and the midpoint to support children in rounding
  • 16:14 – Using number lines to find fractions of an hour and solve time problems
  • 18:37 – Using number lines to find equivalent ratio
  • 21:44 – Concluding thoughts on possible uses for number lines in KS2 and KS3

Useful links

Diagnostic task

Children from Year 5, 6 and 8 classes were asked to draw a number line, either from 1 to 100 or from 50 to 70, with intervals of 10 marked on the line. Teachers observed the spacing of the intervals and paid particular attention to whether children could accurately indicate the location of the midpoint.

Diagram

The number lines referred to by Jordanna are shown below - this can also be downloaded (PDF).