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Maths

Head of Department - Mrs A McLeonards

 

Lower School

Outline of Subject

The maths curriculum provides a foundation for understanding the world and an ability to learn mathematically.  The programme of study for Years 7, 8 and 9 is organised into five key areas.

The areas are:

Number                             

Algebra

Ratio & Proportion         

Shape, Space and Measure

Data Handling

Learning Content

Topic Title

Year

Term 1

Term 2

Term 3

7

Analysing and Displaying Data 

Number Skills

Equations, functions and formulae

Fractions

 

Angles and Shapes

Decimals 

Equations 

 

Multiplicative Reasoning

Perimeter, Area, Volume

Sequences & Graphs 

8

Factors and Powers

Working with Powers 

2D shapes & 3D solids

Real-life Graphs

Transformations

Fractions, Decimals & Percentages 

Constructions and Loci

Probability 

Scale Drawings & Measure

Graphs 

9

Indices 

Manipulating Expressions, Substitution and Solving Equations

 

Interpreting and Representing Data

Fractions & Percentages 

 

Equations, Inequalities & Sequences

Angles

Trigonometry (higher only)

Quadratics and Real-Life Graphs (higher only)

Skill Development

1. Fluency in the fundamentals of mathematics, including through varied and frequent practice with increasingly complex problems over time, in order to develop conceptual understanding and the ability to recall and apply knowledge rapidly and accurately.

2. Reasoning mathematically by following a line of enquiry, conjecturing relationships and generalisations, and developing an argument, justification or proof using mathematical language.

3. Solving problems by applying their mathematics to a variety of routine and non-routine problems with increasing sophistication, including breaking down problems into a series of simpler steps and persevering in seeking solutions.

Additional Information

Students who grasp concepts quickly are challenged through problem solving activities rather than being accelerated through the KS4 content.  There are opportunities for individual and group work as well as interactive and practical tasks using a variety of resources.  

Upper School

Exam Board: EDEXCEL

Outline of Subject

Outline of Subject:

The Mathematics course is designed to support students to:

  • develop fluent knowledge, skills and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts

  • acquire, select and apply mathematical techniques to solve problems

  • reason mathematically, make deductions and inferences and draw conclusions

  • comprehend, interpret and communicate mathematical information in a variety of forms appropriate to the information and context.

The areas of Mathematics covered are:

Number

Algebra

Ratio & Proportion 

Shape, Space and Measure

Data Handling

Course Content

Higher Tier
Year Term 1 Term 2 Term 3
10

Area and Volume 

Transformations and Constructions 

 Equations and Inequalities 

Probability 

Multiplicative Reasoning 

Similarity and Congruence

11

Advanced Trigonometry

Advanced Statistics

Equations & Graphs

Circle Theorems

Algebraic Fractions 

Vector and Geometric Proof

Proportion & Graphs

 Foundation Tier

Year Term 1 Term 2 Term 3
10

Averages 

Area and Volume

Graphs

Transformations

Ratio & Proportion

Pythagoras and Trigonometry

11

Probability

Multiplicative Reasoning 

Constructions, Loci & Bearings

 

Quadratic Equations & Graphs

Area and Volume 

Indices and Standard Form 

 

Similarity and Congruence 

Vectors

Simultaneous Equations. 

 

Skill Development

​Many areas of mathematics are connected and understanding always builds on previous knowledge and skills. There is an emphasis on problem-solving, communication, proof and interpretation. Lessons will be varied throughout the course to promote and develop these skills.  There will be whole class teaching, pair or group work and individual working. A variety of resources will be used including ICT and other practical activities.

Assessment

The assessment consists of three equally weighted written papers at the higher and foundation tier of entry. The first paper is a non-calculator paper. All papers test the subject content across the full range of grades available and questions will be set in both mathematical and non-mathematical contexts. There is no requirement for a formal coursework element within the GCSE.

The qualification will be graded on a nine-point scale from 9 to 1 using the total mark across all three papers where 9 is the highest grade.

Students are entered for the GCSE in Mathematics at one of the two levels i.e. Higher (grades 9-4) or Foundation (grades 5-1).