Why Problem Solving Needs to be Taught - AfterMaths

Why Problem Solving Needs to be Taught - AfterMaths

From The Primary Maths Podcast by Jon Cripwell

May 22, 2026 · 34 min · Episode 76

About this episode

Jon and Becky discuss the importance of teaching problem solving systematically in primary maths education.

In this Aftermaths episode of The Primary Maths Podcast , Jon and Becky chat about the strange, busy, slightly chaotic stretch of the school year just before half term, from transition days and sports events to staffing conversations and year group changes. They reflect on how different primary teaching can feel from one year group to another, and why every phase, from EYFS and Key Stage 1 through to Year 6, needs strong subject knowledge and careful teaching. The main discussion focuses on working systematically as a key problem solving strategy in primary maths. Jon and Becky explore why pupils are often told to “work systematically” without necessarily being taught what that actually means. They discuss how the skill develops from early sorting and ordering in Key Stage 1, through to recording possibilities, finding combinations, identifying factor pairs, proving that all solutions have been found, and eventually supporting algebraic thinking. They also consider why working systematically is not just a SATs strategy, but an important part of pupils’ wider mathematical toolkit. Topics include: why summer term can feel particularly busy in primary schools the challenge of year…

People in this episode

Host: Jon Cripwell

Guest: Becky

Topics covered

  • problem solving
  • primary maths
  • teaching strategies
  • systematic working
  • year group transitions
  • subject knowledge

Keywords

  • primary education
  • maths teaching
  • systematic problem solving
  • Key Stage 1
  • algebraic thinking
  • sorting and ordering

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