Why is it that so many pupils are put off by maths, seeing it as uninspiring and irrelevant, and that so many choose to drop it as soon as they can? Why is it socially acceptable to be bad at maths? Does the maths curriculum really prepare pupils for life?

This book presents some answers to these questions, helping teachers to think through their own attitudes to teaching and learning, and to work with pupils towards more effective and inspiring mathematical engagement. Part I of the book explores the nature of school mathematics - showing how the curriculum has been developed...