Mathematics is the means of looking at the patterns that make up our world and the intricate and beautiful ways in which they are constructed and realised. Numeracy is the means of making that knowledge useful.
Mathematics contributes to the school curriculum by developing pupils' abilities to calculate; to reason logically, algebraically, and geometrically; to solve problems and to handle data. Mathematics is important for pupils in many other areas of study, particularly Science and Technology. It is also important in everyday living, in many forms of employment, and in public decision-making. As a subject in its own right, Mathematics presents frequent opportunities for creativity, and can stimulate moments of pleasure and wonder when a problem is solved for the first time, or a more elegant solution to a problem is discovered, or when hidden connections suddenly manifest.
It enables pupils to build a secure framework of mathematical reasoning, which they can use and apply with confidence. The power of mathematical reasoning lies in its use of precise and concise forms of language, symbolism and representation to reveal and explore general relationships. These mathematical forms are widely used for modelling situations; a trend accelerated by computational technologies.
In the European School of Munich there is always a wide range of attainment in any class. We aim to establish a classroom climate where all pupils feel that they can contribute, and which secures their motivation and concentration. We adopt teaching and organisational strategies to keep all pupils suitably challenged, while giving them maximum opportunity to interact with their teacher. The school provides appropriate support, aids or interventions to give particular pupils access to the planned programme and to keep any who might fall behind in step with the rest of their class.
The subject transcends cultural boundaries and its importance is universally recognised. Mathematics helps us to understand and change the world. Students graduating from ESM will have the mathematical skills and flexibility to cope with the demands of the modern world and to help in development of technology should they so wish.