Mrs Drummond and Dr Fenton were invited to present this innovative approach to teaching at the Scottish Mathematical Council annual conference at the University of Stirling earlier this year. We break down their key findings below.
What is Maths Journalling?
Maths journalling means giving pupils time and space to write about their thinking in maths – not just solving sums, but explaining how they approached a problem, what they found tricky, and what strategies they used. Their journal might include words, diagrams or even drawings – whatever helps them express their ideas. It turns maths into a conversation with themselves, helping them reflect, grow and gain confidence.
Why Maths Journalling Works: Five Key Benefits
1) It builds confidence and reduces anxiety
When children take time to reflect on what they’ve learned, they start to see progress, even in small steps. This helps them feel less anxious and more in control of their learning.
2) It encourages deeper understanding
Instead of racing through calculations, pupils slow down and explain their thinking. This helps them connect the dots and understand the ‘why’ behind the maths, not just the ‘how’.
3) It gives every child a voice
Journalling allows children to engage in maths in different ways, through words, sketches or diagrams, so everyone can express themselves in the way that suits them best.
4) It supports better feedback
Teachers can see how each child is thinking, not just what answers they’re getting. That means they can give more useful feedback, tailored to each learner’s needs.
5) It helps to develop a growth mindset
When children use their journals to reflect on mistakes and track their progress, they begin to see learning as a journey. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about improving over time.
At its heart, maths journalling helps children believe they can do maths – and that’s where true learning begins.
For a more detailed insight into Dr Fenton’s and Mrs Drummond’s research, read their feature on the TES website here.
