Standards Units Resources
51 outstanding classroom activities for active learning through group work, discussion and open questioning — covering Number, Algebra, Shape & Space, Statistics and Calculus.
About These Resources
The Standards Units resources are, in my opinion, some of the finest ever produced. They are rich, challenging, well thought-out and well resourced. In short, I love them.
Each resource includes full lesson plans, printable card sets and worksheets, and many also have accompanying PowerPoint presentations. The classroom-ready versions below were created by Mature_Maths_Trainee — with tips, cautions, and student work examples.
“This multi-media resource encourages a more active way of learning through group work, discussion and open questioning. Learners are encouraged to ‘have a go’, become more independent and reflective about their mathematics, to learn to think mathematically rather than simply learning rules and most importantly, to enjoy their mathematics.”
— NCETM
How to Use Standards Units
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Teachers
These are full lesson plans, not warm-ups. Read the teacher notes carefully before the lesson, prepare the card sets in advance, and lean into the discussion. The activities work best when students do the talking.
Tip: Don’t rush the card-sorting phase — the disagreements between students are where the learning happens.
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Students
These activities are about thinking out loud and arguing your reasoning, not finding the one right answer. Listen to your group, challenge what you don’t agree with, and be willing to change your mind when you hear a better argument.
Tip: “I’m not sure” is a brilliant starting point — say it out loud and work it out together.
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Parents
These resources are designed for the classroom rather than home use, but the card-sorting and matching activities make excellent kitchen-table maths if you fancy a deeper dive with your child. Print, cut out, and discuss.
Tip: If your child is older, the A-level activities are real conversation-starters even for adults — give them a go yourself first.
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Classroom-ready versions by Mature_Maths_Trainee. Enjoy these resources!