EEF Funded Mathematical Reasoning Randomised Control Trial
The EEF is inviting schools to participate in an evaluation of this whole class mathematics programme which raises attainment for all pupils. The trial is open to all state schools in England who have a Y2 cohort who are not currently involved in the EEF trials of Maths Mastery or Maths Whizz.
Empowering teachers and children through a fresh perspective on learning
Discover the power of teaching mathematics and literacy through Reasoning First. Help children to realise the potential of their implicit knowledge by making it explicit. Try out free sample lessons in your classroom. Access research that underpins key concepts for developing children’s reasoning.
About Reasoning First
Oxford University researchers working with teachers from all over the country developed new ways to achieve effective teaching and learning of fundamental concepts in primary education. The programmes were evaluated in rigorous research funded by the EEF, the ESRC, the Nuffield Foundation and the British Academy. The research showed that, when children master the logic beneath concepts, they can extend their learning through reasoning and go beyond what they were taught in the classroom. Children reached better understanding and higher achievement in standardised tests.
Teachers found that the professional development courses linked to the programmes provided them with new insights into the contents they teach and into children’s implicit knowledge and learning. Online professional development is now available to equip teachers to use some of the programmes. Register for free to apply for the online courses, to access sample lessons and research briefs, and to remain informed of new developments.
Our programmes
Our programmes support teachers and TAs through professional development, structured lessons using pre-prepared PowerPoints and ready to use materials.
Mathematical Reasoning (Year 2)
Reasoning About Fractions (Year 4)
Lisa Baggaley Primary School Improvement Officer, LiverpoolI loved teaching the mathematical reasoning programme. The lessons are really carefully planned out with regular opportunities for the children to recap their prior learning and build on it. And the lessons were also pitched appropriately.
Judith Copley LLME South Yorkshire & NW1 Maths Hubs and NCETM Accredited TrainerThe mathematical reasoning programme is a pleasure to teach. It provides a basis to really develop pupils' thinking and encourages them to explain these thought processes. The resources are all provided which gives the teacher time to consider their questions.
Emma O'Connor Northway Primary School, MaghullThe children absolutely loved the programme and it became known as 'Fun Maths Friday' in our classroom! They were both engaged and challenged at the same time. The books were beautifully presented and helped the children to understand their learning. The teacher training before delivering the programme was really informative and interesting as well. I'd recommend the programme to everyone!
The benefits
Teachers and children recognise the power that learning through reasoning gives them in mastering new concepts. Everyone benefits from the different elements of the programmes.
- High quality CPD
- Well-structured lessons
- Pre-prepared PowerPoints
- Teacher Handbook
- Children actively solving problems
- Whole-class teaching reinforced by games
- All the resources you need
- Lessons pitched at the right level
- Save preparation time
- Implementation support
- Individual workbooks for children
- Children also explain their reasoning
Who we are
The REASONING FIRST core team is composed by Gabriel Stylianides, Professor of Mathematics Education, Terezinha Nunes, Emeritus Professor of Educational Studies, and Louise Matthews, an experienced leader of educational projects and author of the series of books about Martha, the Mathemagician. Our research underpinning the REASONING FIRST programmes has received support from the EEF, DfE, The Nuffield Foundation, ESRC, British Academy and the Royal Society, among other institutions. The REASONING FIRST programmes are supported by the Department of Education, University of Oxford, and Oxford University Innovation.
