Maths Explorer is a program that allows mainstream students in Years 3 and 4 to collaborate with their peers and work together to decide how they explore a problem, regardless of their abilities.
Teachers are given a Resource Kit four times yearly to prepare for each Contest Paper. Each kit contains videos for students to watch with an accompanying activity sheet to complete. There are task cards with questions for students to solve. Hints and answers are included.
There is also a practice paper for students to complete that comes with detailed solutions. The practice paper has ‘Exploring’ problems for everyone to solve and ‘Extension’ problems for students who are ready for a challenge.
The Resource Kits prepare the students to complete four Contest Papers throughout the year. Students can complete these papers in small groups.
Please explore below to learn more about the program and to download example resources.
Sample Class Video
Maths Explorer uses videos to introduce problem solving strategies to students. This video demonstrates several different diagrams that are used for solving problems.
Click on the button below to download and print an Activity Sheet for students to complete as you watch the video together as a class. Answers are included.
Sample Task Cards and Challenge Cards
Here is a selection of Maths Explorer Task Cards. They are included in each Resource Kit, as well as Challenge Questions for high potential students.
The Task Cards are provided with and without hints. Teachers can select the appropriate cards for their students.
Sample Digital Activity – Sort to Solve
This video introduces Sort to Solve, demonstrating the Explore, Challenge and Mystery levels.
Click here to launch Sort to Solve.
Click the button below to download a QR Code for your students to scan to launch the activity.
Sample Maths Explorer Paper
Student complete a Maths Explorer Paper 4 times a year. They can complete the paper with a partner or on their own.
2 Challenge Questions are included for high potential students.
Fully worked solutions are included.
Sample Solutions Video
Once students have completed the Maths Explorer Paper, they can watch a video of the strategies and solutions together as a class.
Further Resources – Preparation Tasks
This year, APSMO is introducing new activities to support students in exploring maths through problem solving.
These tasks focus on strategies and experiences that assist students in building familiarity with mathematical concepts and support collaboration and communication during maths lessons. They are also designed to help teachers tailor activities for high potential and gifted students. As such, not every Preparation Task is suitable for every student.
There are 2 Preparation Tasks included here.
Each task requires 2 resources to be used together:
• Preparation Task Slides to display on a screen and
• Accompanying student activity sheets.
This allows teachers to guide their class through the steps of each task tasks.
We hope you enjoy our sample of Maths Explorer. For further information about Maths Explorer, visit our Maths Explorer Program Page or download our Primary School Program guide.
