Wellhouse Junior and Infant School Kirf Maths

KIRFs - Key Instant Recall Facts

An important part of maths teaching has always been rote learning (learning off by heart) of certain numeracy facts. For many years this has included practising times tables.
We have recently added more structure to this throughout school, as well as adding several other elements of instant recall maths.

KIRFs (Key Instant Recall Facts) are designed to support the development of the mental skills that underpin much of the maths work in schools. It is important that children know these thoroughly and can recall specific facts instantly. They are particularly useful when calculating and problem solving, be it adding, subtracting, multiplying or dividing.

Each half term your child will be given a Key Instant Recall Fact (KIRF) to practise and learn at home. They will be sent home on A4 sheets that include practical ideas to assist your child is grasping the facts. This is not designed to be a time consuming task but little and often. These facts are frequently asked during mental maths tests with a five second time limit to answer before moving onto the next question.

The KIRFs are colour coded and the target set depends on your child’s ability and year group.

If you would like to know more please come into school and ask.

Miss Cook