The Five Question Approach: Disrupting the Linear Approach to Mathematics Teaching

Student disengagement is influenced by the degree of success that is experienced in the mathematics classroom. In turn, success is often determined by the depth of understanding that students gain during predetermined time frames. This paper reports on the Five Question Approach to teaching mathematics which provides teachers with greater flexibility in content delivery, pacing and consolidation of content. This qualitative case study draws on data collected in three Australian secondary classrooms. Findings indicate that the Five Question Approach led to increased student engagement, academic improvement and a significant decrease in examination anxiety.