Curriculum
Mathematics
Why study Mathematics?
Mathematics is the universal language that helps pupils to understand the beautiful world around them. Being an integral part of a holistic education, it goes beyond the study of numbers, shapes, and patterns, it provides important tools for work in fields such as engineering, physics, architecture, medicine, and business. It nurtures the development of a logical and methodical mind-set and helps instil focus and the ability to solve problems. Attainment in mathematics is the key to opening new doors to employment and further education. A mathematics GCSE is an essential qualification to pursue further studies in many fields.
How will I study mathematics?
In mathematics, pupils study a variety of topics such as:
- number work
- algebra, shapes
- ratio
- data-handling
As well as investigate mathematically advanced concepts such as trigonometry, circle theorems, vectors, and proof. Pupils are taught declarative knowledge components for each topic, practice the classical mathematical procedures. They then have opportunities to extend this to conditional knowledge and a variety of ‘what if’ / varying situations. Pupils have the opportunity to continually develop reasoning, written and oral communication skills in conjunction to problem solving strategies.
Each and every lesson provides multiple opportunities for pupils to:
- retrieve their learning that focuses on retention in the long-term memory
- discuss their learning and explore concepts
- show their understanding during the lesson so that misconceptions can be quickly addressed.
- Use exit tickets to check the learning outcomes have been successfully achieved.
Our new and improved inclusive curriculum welcomes students with ‘special educational needs’ by using adaptive strategies for every student.
Success is celebrated with ‘Student of the week’, postcards posted home as well as ‘positive phone calls home’ to celebrate the amazing mathematical progress displayed by students.
What will I study at key stage 3?
Our Key Stage 3 curriculum begins in Year 7 by focusing on finding and filling any gaps from Key Stage 2 and establishing a strong grasp of the number line, fractions, and decimals. Introductions to Key Stage 3 algebra and shape are incremental, with the intention of building confidence sequentially and gradually.
In Year 8 we continue to building on the shape and algebra introduced in Year 7. Sequences, graph and probability are also explored at higher levels with connections between different topics made. Students are given time to build on declarative knowledge across the many areas of mathematics.
Our Key Stage 3 continues into Year 9 and focuses on developing strong procedural knowledge on the parts of the curriculum covered so far. Accuracy and confidence in calculations and manipulations are emphasised as well as articulating reasons and linking different methods. Advanced ideas involving ratios and proportions, inequalities and data handling are also explored. Reinforcing and using mathematical concepts and notation help build a strong foundation for the higher-level maths to come.
What will I study at key stage 4?
Our Key Stage 4 focuses on investigating some of the most advanced parts of the curriculum. Higher level trigonometry, surds, quadratic equations, and data handling techniques are studied, and intentional time is given to explore concepts in detail. Students begin to articulate ideas mathematically by ‘talking like a mathematician’ and make links to previous learning.
Toward the end of Key stage 4, there is an explicit focus on making and building connections between the different branches of mathematics to help solve high level problems. All topics covered are multi-layered and draw on a strong understanding of many areas of the curriculum. Students are required to communicate mathematically using established notation and ideas as they will in any further study of the subject. Students’ knowledge and understanding is strengthened and there is also a clear focus on the use of mathematics in the real world.
Assessment at key stage 4
Edexcel GCSE MATHS PAPER 1: 1MA1/1F or 1MA1/1H Non-Calculator
| Overview | Focus |
|---|---|
|
|
Edexcel GCSE MATHS PAPER 2: 1MA1/2F or 1MA1/2H Calculator
| Overview | Focus |
|---|---|
|
|
Edexcel GCSE STATISTICS PAPER 1: 1STO/1H or 1STO/1F Calculator
| Overview | Focus |
|---|---|
|
|
Edexcel GCSE STATISTICS PAPER 2: 1STO/2H or 1STO/2F Calculator
| Overview | Focus |
|---|---|
|
|
Enrichment
Pupils have lots of opportunities for enrichment in both mathematics and mathematic related skills. Pupils experience enrichment in their lessons such as applications in finance, medical sciences and statistics to understand the link between their learning and how it links to future employment opportunities. The department offers enrichment sessions where pupils can develop their logical and strategic thinking as well as regular competitions such as Times Table Rockstars competitions. Pupils are also encouraged to take part in the UK Mathematics Trust annual challenges and competitions.
Within the department and across the school we celebrate important dates and events across the year such as NSPCC’s number day and Maths Week England. These allow students to take part in challenges and to develop their problem solving and leadership skills.
Careers
A good GCSE grade in Mathematics will allow you to choose A Levels and a degree in a variety of fields including Mathematics, Statistics, and Physics. These include careers in:
- Accountancy
- Engineering
- Economics
- Teaching
- Computing
Most colleges will require at least a grade ‘5’ in GCSE Maths to be able to apply for A levels, and at least a grade ‘6’ or ‘7’ to be able to apply for A levels in Science and Mathematics.