Mathematics

Mathematics provides a way of viewing and making sense of the world. It is used to analyse and communicate information and ideas and to tackle a range of practical tasks and real life problems.

Aims

To develop a positive attitude to mathematics including confidence, enjoyment and perseverance in line with the school mission statement.

To develop reasoning, logic, proof and creativity.

To develop knowledge, skills and understanding needed to apply a range of mathematical concepts to situations which may arise in the real world and as a basis which may lead to further study in Mathematics beyond GCSE.

Content

Key Stage 3

• Using and Applying Mathematics
• Number and Algebra
• Shape, Space and Measures
• Handling Data

Throughout Key Stage 3, this content will be covered at various levels.  There are non-calculator elements to all content.

Key Stage 4

The above content still applies but at a greater depth, so the pupils can progress towards a GCSE. The ability to perform calculations without a calculator is assessed in one of the two exam papers that students will sit.

Post 16

A Level Mathematics consists of three broad areas of content:  Pure Mathematics, Statistics and Mechanics.  3 modules are studied for AS Level and a further 3 for the full A Level.

Assessment

Key Stage 3

Short written tests and mental arithmetic tests are used termly to assess pupil progress and prepare pupils for Key Stage 3 tests in Year 9.

Key Stage 4

Pupils sit written tests termly to assess their progress towards their GCSE targets.

The GCSE is a Linear course and is assessed by examination either at the end of Year 10 or during Year 11.
GCSE Statistics

This may be undertaken by pupils in Year 11, Set 1.  This course is examined  by a piece of coursework (25%) and two written papers (75%).

Post 16

AS/A2 Level - 3 module papers are taken in Year 12 and a further 3 in Year 13.

Re-sitting of modules is possible, if students need to improve their grades.

Recording

Class teachers keep records of classwork, homework and tests/exams as appropriate.

Computerised records are kept of tests and exams across the year.

Essential Equipment

• Calculator (Scientific)
• Ruler (30cm)
• Pens & Pencils
• A pair of Compasses
• Rubber
• Protractor

Accreditation

Key Stage 3

Standard Assessment Tests will be sat by Year 9 pupils comprising of two written papers and one assessing mental arithmetic skills.

Key Stage 4 GCSE

1.     Mathematics Tiers     -     Higher
                                       -     Foundation
        Examination Board is AQA

2.     Statistics Tiers           -     Higher
                                       -     Foundation
Examination Board is AQA

AS/A Level

The exam board is OCR

The awards granted are:

• AS Level Mathematics (via 3 modules)
• A Level Mathematics (via 6 modules)

Homework

Further examples/practice questions
Coursework/project work
Gathering Information
Learning for tests/exams
Updating due to absence/illness
Research

Parents are encouraged to ask pupils about their work.

Homework frequency is weekly increasing in length from Year 7 onwards.

Extra Curricular

Pupils with a keen interest in mathematics are able to be a member of the Mathematics Tutor Group.
Able pupils can take part in the UKMT Challenge