Oracy in Maths? We need to talk!
"By listening to pupils, we learn how to teach them better. And when we teach them to talk, we teach them to think." (Jane Hawkins, NCETM)
Oracy has become high on the list of topics discussed in schools and academies currently but can it lead to shared language for equity in mathematics?
In this NCETM article, Charlie Stripp, Director of the NCETM and Jane Hawkins, NCETM Associate Deputy Director for Secondary, discuss oracy, inclusion and inspection.
What is oracy?
Oracy is the ability to express your thoughts and ideas fluently through speech. In the maths classroom, it means pupils articulating their mathematical thinking and reasoning. Through discussion, pupils develop a deeper understanding of the maths they are learning. Oracy is important in the maths classroom, as it gives pupils the chance to explore and verbalise their ideas, and to develop their thinking. It also gives teachers the chance to assess what pupils know and understand.
Oracy in mathematics framework
Oracy in mathematics involves authentic listening, articulation and development of mathematical thinking. It is an essential skill that supports learning by drawing attention to mathematical structure and enabling all pupils to make connections.
Why it matters
With the recent publication of the Curriculum and Assessment Review Final Report, which places oracy alongside reading, writing and maths as a core pillar for all learners, it is timely for the NCETM’s Charlie Stripp and Jane Hawkins to discuss how oracy can support equity and inclusion in mathematics. Drawing on Ofsted’s new School Inspection Toolkit and the NCETM’s Oracy in mathematics framework, they explore how purposeful talk can help every pupil think, reason and belong.
As Jane reflects, "ultimately, what these two guidance documents offer is a shared language for equity. They remind us that inclusion is not about lowering expectations, but about raising participation. And that oracy is not a soft skill, but a vital tool for thinking, reasoning, and belonging. As we continue to develop Maths Hubs’ professional development and support schools in embedding teaching for mastery, we must ensure that every pupil — regardless of background — has the opportunity to speak, to be heard, and to make sense of mathematics."
Oracy supports specific aspects of the Essence of Mathematics Teaching for Mastery.