Maths Through Picture Books

Shared on behalf of The East London Research School:

Maths Through Picture Books is an innovative targeted intervention unlike any other. The approach uses the power of back-and-forth interactions using specially chosen picture books to promote conversations about maths.

This is a 10 week intervention for children in reception who need extra support to develop a secure understanding of number and operations.

The programme trains reception teachers and teaching assistants to use shared book reading to actively engage children and promote sustained, high-quality conversations about mathematical ideas using carefully selected picture books.

How does the trial work?

The purpose of the trial is to evaluate the impact of the Maths Through Picture Books programme on children’s number attainment. To do this, schools will be randomly allocated to either teaching-as-usual (control) or the programme group. The programme group receives training and delivers the programme to children whilst the teaching-as-usual group continues with their normal practice.

What are the benefits of taking part?

• You will receive the Maths Through Picture Books training at a subsidised rate. If you are randomised to the programme group you will get to keep the set of 9 mathematical picture books.
• £300 incentive payment for schools randomly assigned to the teaching-as-usual (control) group as a thank you for completing the evaluation activities.

To participate, schools must meet the following criteria: 

• Be a state-funded mainstream primary school
• Be willing to select 6 children likely to benefit from the programme from each Reception class 
• Be in the South East or East of England and within travelling distance of our in-person training in London or Cambridge
• Not be taking part in any other Reception EEF projects in the same time period