Numeracy team unravel the complexities of teaching Multiplicative Thinking

Teacher educators from Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta at a conference in Aukland

Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta’s (CEDP) Numeracy Team highlighted their ability to think outside the box when they recently presented their pilot study about incorporating an alternative way of teaching multiplicative thinking at this year’s Mathematics Education Research Group of Australasia’s Conference (MERGA).

The Numeracy Team, which consists of Manager Barbara McHugh and Teaching Educators Geraldine Caleta, Kerry Giumelli, Melissa King, Nadine Meredith, Tammy Roosen and Kathryn Salkeld, presented their research at Massey University Albany, Auckland New Zealand in early July.

“We have attended the conference before; however, this was the first time a paper was accepted which gave us the opportunity to present our research,’’ Mrs McHugh said.

The paper reported on a pilot study which incorporated an alternative professional learning model that was school-based and focused on an identified area of need: multiplicative thinking in primary schools.

Multiplicative thinking is described as the capacity to work flexibly with multiplication and division as they occur in a wide range of contexts.

“The shift to multiplicative thinking can be challenging for both students and teachers due to its multifaceted nature,’’ Mrs McHugh said.

The paper was produced in partnership with Monash University’s Dr Ann Downton, who is a lecturer in mathematics education in the Faculty of Education.

Teacher educators from Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta presenting on Multiplicative Thinking

A pilot study was done in 2016 with 14 schools, K - 6 with a particular focus on Stage 2, Year 3 and Year 4, students. To date, 44 schools, 5000 students and 1400 teachers have chosen the multiplicative thinking as part of their school action plan goals.

As a result of participating in the pilot, teachers acknowledged that it gave them a better understanding of why repeated addition is harder to unlearn and gained a better understanding of not just the ‘how’, but the ‘why’ of multiplication and how to teach this to students.

The numeracy team in Aukland New Zealand

Teachers also said they developed a deepened understanding of multiplicative thinking and structures. It also raised their awareness of some of the challenges involved in teaching these skills and concepts.

Numeracy Teaching Educator Kathryn Salkeld said attending the conference was reaffirming.

“A lot of research went into the pilot study and it was evident at the conference that what we are doing in the Diocese is on par or even a little bit ahead of what other schools and systems are doing,’’ Ms Salkeld said.

Fellow educator Kerry Giumelli said it has given their whole team the confidence that their research is something which can benefit teachers and students world wide.

Teacher Educators from the Catholic Education Office in New Zealand

The recommendations from the study included focusing on making division more explicit in each module and ensuring that there is targeted classroom support from Teaching Educators after each module.

Also, this year a three-day Leaders Course has been developed to assist leaders to continue the learning with teachers at schools who participated in the Stage 2 Multiplicative Thinking course in 2016 and 2017.

“Our future research plans include presenting student data to highlight the impact this is making on their learning,’’ Mrs McHugh said.

“We appreciate the opportunity to develop such teacher research and are very thankful for the support from CEDP, especially Director of Learning Sue Walsh.”

Written By

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au

From Facebook

05 Sep 2025
From Facebook
Father's Day Celebrations This morning our school community came together to celebrate Father’s Day with a heart-warming event. The day started with a delicious BBQ breakfast, where fathers, grandfathers, and father figures enjoyed good food and great company. It was a joyful time filled with laughter, conversations, and the simple pleasure of sharing a meal together. Following breakfast, everyone gathered in the hall for a beautiful liturgy. The liturgy was a meaningful moment to reflect on the important role fathers play in our lives. Students and staff participated with heartfelt prayers and songs, creating a warm and respectful atmosphere. The Father’s Day celebration was a wonderful opportunity to honour and appreciate the dads in our school community. Thank you to everyone who joined us and made the day so special! # Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese

01 Sep 2025
From Facebook
Prayer of Thanksgiving for Gregory B. Whitby AM KSG We are deeply saddened by the passing of Greg Whitby AM KSG, former Executive Director of Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Parramatta. Greg was Executive Director from 2006 to 2022 and he led with dedication to the young people of schools in the diocese. Greg was also a former Principal of Emmaus Catholic College Kemps Creek. His legacy of leadership, advocacy, and inspiration lives on in the countless educators and students he impacted. We give thanks for Greg’s remarkable life and service. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Eternal rest grant unto Greg, O Lord. May perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. 🕊️