Mathematics Showcase

Stoneydown maths in action

Maths in action

Stem Sentences 

In maths, stem sentences include accurate mathematical vocabulary in a highly structured sentence that provides pupils with a way to communicate their ideas with mathematical precision as well as clarity.

Stem sentences can be used to:

• Express a key concept
• Generalise a key concept
• Provide a template for discussions or explanations

Each time learners repeat a stem sentence correctly, it helps embed the concept.

For example, if a pupil is asked what the value of the digits in 24 are and they say, ‘24 has 2 tens and 4 ones’, they are able to think aloud with mathematical precision and clarity. They are also able to embed the concept that 24 is the same as 2 tens and 4 ones (compared to an answer of simply ‘2 tens and 4 ones’). By encouraging pupils to say the whole sentence, they also reiterate the question and answer to others.

Click here to see a video of Eleanor, one of our Year 2 teachers and Early Maths Leader, using a stem sentence to support children with what the outcome is of multiplying any number by zero.