Head Of Department: Mr Raymond
Second In Charge: Mrs Scott & Mr Wilson
Overview
Mathematics develops students’ skills in a variety of subject areas. In lessons we aim to develop students understanding of both mathematical concepts and develop their understanding of real life problems. Mathematics is taught in a variety of ways, including the use of project and investigative work as well as using more traditional teaching methods. Students are encouraged to become independent learners and to think creatively when answering questions. Homework is set on a weekly basis for most students. It aims to consolidate learning and students are we encourage pupils to use mathematics websites to work at home.
KS3 Schemes of Work
Students learn Mathematics for 6 hours per fortnight during Key Stage 3. All student work is levelled and students are set by ability during the first half term of Year 7. Students are encouraged to become independent and we regularly set students targets for improvement.
In Year 7 students study Business Mathematics, which focuses on Functional Mathematics and how to apply what is learnt in Maths lessons to real life business situations. Throughout Key Stage 3 students study the following areas of Mathematics:
- Number (including Fractions, Decimals, Approximations and Percentages)
- Algebra (including Like terms, Brackets, Index numbers and Substitution)
- Measures (including Area, Volumes and Conversions)
- Statistics (including Averages, Graphs and Data interpretation)
All students take National Curriculum Tests at the end of Year 9. Students are prepared in lessons for these assessments and the department run revision sessions after school.
GCSE Course(s) Overview
At Key Stage 4 students begin their study of GCSE Mathematics. The majority of students study GCSE Statistics in Year 10. The department follow the programme of study with Edexcel for both courses. GCSE Statistics enables students to improve their understanding of data and interpretation. The course consists of a statistics project, which is 25% coursework and 75% final examination. It is widely recognised that students who study statistics are able to transfer these skills to GCSE Mathematics as well as improve their understanding of other mathematics related subjects. GCSE Mathematics is a linear course which is 100% assessed with 2 examination papers at the end of Year 11. Past Papers are given to students and students have regular half termly assessment to monitor their progress throughout the 2 years. Students are encouraged to use www.mymaths.co.uk as well as SAM Learning to aim their revision. We encourage all students to own a scientific calculator and bring it to all lessons.
GCSE Exam Boards Used
GCSE Mathematics with Edexcel 1380 GCSE Statistics with Edexcel 1389 Students are made away of their tier of entry during Year 11.
AS/A Level Course(s) Overview
The Mathematics department offer both AS/A2 Mathematics and AS/A2 Further Mathematics. Mathematics is a popular subject within the Sixth Form. Mathematics helps to develop their understanding of other subjects and offers students greater options after completing A Levels. Students are expected to complete a minimum of one homework per week. Students are expected to work independently outside the classroom and use both textbooks and websites to improve their understanding.
AS/A Level Exam Boards Used
Students studying A Level Mathematics complete the following modules all with AQA examination board:
- Core 1 MPC1
- Core 2 MPC2
- Core 3 MPC3
- Core 4 MPC4
- Mechanics 1 MM1B
- Statistics 1 MS1B
There is no coursework for A Level Mathematics. Students take modules in January and May/June.
Student who are studying Further Mathematics complete the additional modules over the 2 years:
- Further Core 1 MFP1
- Further Core 2 MFP2
- Mechanics 2 MM02
- Mechanics 3 MM03
- Decision 1 MD01
- Decision 2 MD02
All students are encouraged to buy Graphics Calculators to assist them with the course.
Study Days/Educational Trips
Each Year students in Year 7 take part in the NSPCC Number Day which develops students understanding of Mathematics in different subjects.
