At a glance
- Ages
- 3 to 12
- Strands
- Number, pattern and function, measurement, shape and space, data handling
- External exams
- None in the PYP
- Assessment
- Teacher-based: observation, tasks, portfolios
- Next stage
- IB Middle Years Programme
The five PYP maths strands
| Strand | What children learn | What you might see at home |
|---|---|---|
| Number | Place value, the four operations, fractions, decimals, mental and written methods | Counting change, splitting a pizza, estimating |
| Pattern and function | Spotting, describing and extending patterns; early algebraic thinking | Number patterns, times-table rules |
| Measurement | Length, mass, capacity, time, money and their units | Cooking, reading clocks, comparing prices |
| Shape and space | 2D and 3D shapes, position, direction, symmetry | Maps, building models, symmetry art |
| Data handling | Collecting, organising and interpreting data; early probability | Surveys, graphs, chance games |
Schools adapt how and when each strand is taught; ask for your child's year-group overview.
Why PYP maths can hide gaps
PYP classrooms emphasise understanding: children explain strategies, use concrete materials and apply maths in units on themes such as "How the world works" or "Sharing the planet". This builds flexible thinking, which is a real strength. But without regular tests or numeric grades, a child who is slow with number bonds, times tables or written methods may not be flagged until MYP, where algebra assumes them.
Watch for signs at home: counting on fingers past age 8, guessing at word problems, avoiding homework, or saying "I'm bad at maths". These are worth raising with the class teacher, who can tell you where your child is against the school's expectations.
Simple ways to support maths at home
- Five minutes a day of number facts, as a game rather than a drill.
- Use real contexts: shopping in dirhams or riyals, cooking measurements, travel times.
- Ask your child to explain how they worked something out. Explaining is central to PYP learning.
- Play board and card games that involve counting, strategy and probability.
- Praise effort and strategy, not speed, to keep confidence high.
How one-to-one PYP maths lessons work
A tutor who teaches primary maths starts by finding where your child is secure and where they are not, using short tasks and conversation rather than a test. Lessons then follow a simple rhythm: a warm-up game on the shared whiteboard, focused work on one skill with visual models, and a short challenge that applies it. The 60-minute lesson is broken into several activities so younger children stay engaged.
The tutor fits around the school's units, so lessons support what is happening in class rather than teaching a different method. Parents of younger children are welcome to sit nearby, and the parent account shows each lesson and progress over time.
Before the move to MYP
The last two years of PYP are the best time to secure multiplication facts, fractions and written methods. Students who arrive in MYP year 1 with these in place find algebra much easier.
Common questions
Does the PYP have maths exams?
No. There are no external exams in the PYP. Teachers assess through observation, tasks and portfolios, and schools report progress in their own format.
How do I know if my child is behind in maths?
Ask the class teacher how your child compares with the year group's expectations, and look for signs such as counting on fingers past age 8 or avoiding maths. A short assessment lesson with a tutor can also help.
Will a tutor teach different methods from school?
A good tutor uses the school's approach. Tutors ask about the current unit and methods, and reinforce them rather than replace them.
Is one hour too long for a young child?
The lesson is broken into short activities, games and challenges. Many young children manage well this way, and the tutor adjusts the pace to the child.
How much do PYP maths lessons cost?
$15 a lesson, the same rate for every subject and age, on a weekly plan of 1 to 5 lessons billed monthly. Lessons are 60 minutes, one to one and online, and the first lesson is a free trial.
Sources
Dates and figures on this page come from these official and published sources. Always confirm deadlines on the official page before acting on them.