In the Classroom

Mathematics

Welcome to the Mathematics Department

Key Stage 3

All pupils follow the National Curriculum for Mathematics. Pupils are set according to ability based on the Key Stage 2 SATs score. During the first term in year 7 teacher regularly discuss the setting of pupils to ensure pupils are in correct sets.

Throughout all years in key stage 3 pupils sit regular half term tests. In May year 9 pupils according to their ability are entered for one of the following tiers

TIERS 3-5 4-6 5-7 6-8.

The pupils also sit QCA optional tests at the end of year 7 & 8. Some pupils will sit progress tests at the end of year 7

Key Stage 4

All pupils follow the National Curriculum for Mathematics. The Mathematics GCSE specification changed in September 2006. This now enables students following the Higher programme of study to obtain a grade A*- D, whilst the pupils following the Foundation programme of study a grade C - G. The Mathematics department will follow the Edexcel Modular programme.

Module 1

Weighting 20% - Content AO4 - Data Handling - One 40 minute paper.

Module 2

Weighting 30% - Content AO2 - AO3 - Number & Algebra and Shape Space and Measure - one 60 minute paper.

Both the modules above will contain a Calculator paper and a Non calculator paper and A01 - Using and applying maths will be assessed on both papers.

Module 3

Weighting 50% - Content A01 - A04 -Two 60 minute papers one Calculator - one Non Calculator paper - 25% each at the foundation tier. At the higher tier the papers are 80 minutes each.

The Modular programme of study also allows students to sit their Terminal exam in November year 11. This would allow a selection of students to start their AS/ A level whilst still in year 11.

The pupils' Mathematics teachers will help them decide which route they should take based on their Key Stage 3 score, Teacher Assessments and the amount of effort made by the pupil.

Key Stage 5

Students follow the AQA specification which incorporates Core 1, Core 2 & Statistics in year 12. This leads to an AS qualification.

In year 13 the students will follow Core 3, Core 4 & Decision Mathematics