asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that in a recent report of the Examination and Curriculum Board, dissatisfaction was expressed with the mathematics course in senior primary classes; if his Department has considered the matter; and, if so, the result.
Written Answers. - Primary School Mathematics.
185.
A Discussion Paper on Mathematics was issued recently by the Curriculum and Examination Board. It made many constructive and worthwhile suggestions on the teaching of mathematics generally and my Department is at present considering them. In relation to the senior classes in the primary school it made the point that "the amount of content specified for these classes is over-demanding and, in some cases unsuitable for the majority of pupils".
As the Deputy will be aware from his experience, children in the latter stage of primary education display a wide range of attainment in mathematics. Given the range of ability and potential of such pupils it would not be unusual to have children in the same class whose individual levels of achievement might differ by three or four years. The task and challenge for the teacher is to present varied mathematical experiences which will provide satisfaction and challenge for all the pupils. In this context the recommendations of the Curriculum and Examinations Board and the findings of the various surveys on mathematical attainment conducted by my Department will be taken into consideration in any review of the primary school programmes in mathematics.