The science of learning and thinking behind Toku - An Exam Bytes Academy Product

Language

Choose a language

Toku parent question

What does mastery mean in maths?

For Toku, mastery should mean that a child can perform a defined skill reliably enough that it is sensible to increase the challenge, not that the child has finished learning that area forever.

The word “mastery” is used in several different ways in education. Toku should use it narrowly and transparently.

Mastery learning is about progression and correction

Classic mastery-learning models check performance against a criterion and provide further learning opportunities before moving forward.[1]

Mathematics mastery is broader than sprint performance

Curriculum and EEF guidance emphasise fluency, reasoning, problem solving, representations and conceptual connections.[2][3]

What a strong sprint pattern tells you

A strong sprint pattern shows that a particular practice skill is becoming more secure, giving Toku a useful signal for when to raise the challenge or revisit the skill later.

Related Toku science pages

References

  1. Chen-Lin C. Kulik, James A. Kulik & Robert L. Bangert-Drowns (1990). Effectiveness of mastery learning programs: a meta-analysis. Review of Educational Research.
  2. Department for Education (2021). Mathematics programmes of study: key stages 1 and 2. National curriculum in England.
  3. Education Endowment Foundation (2017). Improving Mathematics in Key Stages 2 and 3. Guidance Report.