Children's learning and progress in many subjects often depends on what they know and understand and can do in mathematics.

At the same time, these subjects provide a rich source of stimulus and motivation for pupils improving their mathematics skills. Learning is enhanced in both subjects.

Children learn mathematics skills best at the point when they are needed, in meaningful, relevant contexts.

Alongside specific skills, such as counting and calculating, more general skills in mathematical thinking are important.

Using and applying mathematics

Children will use their problem solving, communication and reasoning skills as they:

• decide what to do, for example what to measure, and the best method to use
• investigate and statements
• look for patterns in results and describe them.

Handling data

Children will use their skills of processing, representing and interpreting data as they:

• consider the data needed to solve a problem
• represent data in appropriate ways
• interpret secondary sources of data, such as tables, graphs and charts
• draw conclusions from statistics and graphs.

Embedding these skills in other subjects makes a real difference to learning. Lessons are more interesting and enjoyable, and children are more motivated and can see the relevance of their learning across the curriculum.