MathematicsMathematics
Key Stage 3 (Programme Of Study)
The aim of the Mathematics course is to ensure that, through their enjoyment of the subject, pupils will be successful and have the confidence to use their skills in other subject areas and real-life situations. The course builds upon the Mathematics studied at primary school and incorporates the National Numeracy Strategy for Key Stage 3. It will give the pupils an understanding of number, algebra, space and measures and data-handling. A variety of methods are used: for example investigations, problem-solving, calculator work, discussions, puzzles and games. Mental and non-calculator methods are practised regularly. Each pupil will be taught in a group suited to their mathematical ability, based in the first instance, on information from the primary schools and Key Stage 2 SATs. Assessment takes place each half term. Pupils will need a scientific calculator, a pair of compasses and a protractor.
Homework may be one of the following:
- exercises to reinforce work covered in lessons;
- completing classwork;
- revising for an assessment or a new topic;
- researching a new topic.
In Year 8 the pupils continue to develop their skills and understanding of number, algebra, shape, space and measures and data-handling. Various methods are used to develop the pupils’ knowledge and skills such as investigations, problem-solving, calculator work and discussion, puzzles and games. Mental and non-calculator methods are practised regularly. Assessment takes place each half term. Pupils will need a scientific calculator, a pair of compasses and a protractor.
Homework is set weekly and may be one of the following:
- exercises to reinforce work covered in lessons;
- completing classwork;
- revising for an assessment or a new topic.
In Year 9 pupils continue to develop their mathematical skills. The course covers topics in all the areas previously studied - number, algebra, shape, space and measures, data-handling and using and applying Mathematics.
They are prepared for their end of Key Stage 3 tests thoroughly. In Mathematics, there are three tests - a mental arithmetic test, a non-calculator written paper and a written paper for which a calculator is expected to be used. Teacher assessment will continue each half term and homework is set weekly.
At the end of year 9 the pupils will be placed in a group for the GCSE course based on their test and teacher assessment results.
Key Stage 4 (Programme Of Study)
In Years 10 and 11 pupils follow a GCSE course leading to a certificate at one of three levels:
- Higher: grades A* - C
- Intermediate: grades B - E
- Foundation: grades D - G
The course is modular and there will be external examinations in the Spring of Year 10, January of Year 11 and at the end of Year 11. Students will be able to move between the tiers of examination, depending on their results in the module tests. Students continue to develop skills in number, algebra, shape, space and measures, data-handling and using and applying mathematics. There will be assessed coursework which will be practised throughout the course. It will include a data-handling project. Pupils will be expected to provide basic equipment, including a protractor, a pair of compasses and a calculator.
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