INTRODUCTION From the start of Year 7 pupils will build upon the National Numeracy Strategy work started in Key Stage 2. During the first few weeks there will be pupil assessment based on classwork and home learning performance, written tests and teacher recommendations (Primary and Secondary). Each pupil will then be allocated to an appropriate ability group. COURSE DETAILS

Pupils follow schemes of work which incorporate all four National Curriculum attainment targets, using and applying Mathematics, number and algebra, shape, space and measures and handling data. The use of information and communication technology is encouraged throughout the course, including the efficient and confident use of calculators. At the same time the importance of ‘pencil and paper’ arithmetic methods and mental arithmetic is stressed via regular practice.

During Key Stage 3 pupils will undertake practical and investigational tasks. This helps to
prepare them for the coursework element of the GCSE course they will follow in Key Stage 4.

The main resource used is the Key Mathematics scheme. Every pupil is issued with their own text book. This is supplemented by a variety of other resources such as worksheets, practical equipment, games and subject specific software used in classrooms and ICT suite.

Assessment

Pupils are constantly being assessed informally through discussions with their classroom teachers. In addition, pupils will be regularly assessed through written tasks and tests. Short tests are given to assess understanding of recently completed modules of work or to diagnose pupils’ existing level of understanding before starting new topics; yearly exams are used to test longer term retention of facts and methods. Progress will be assessed using the National Curriculum criteria.

At the end of Year 9 pupils will sit National Curriculum Attainment Tests in Mathematics. They will be entered for one of five tiers of entry. Pupils sit two written papers, one with the use of a calculator and one without, and one mental arithmetic test.

Home Learning

Home learning is set for all classes twice a week. In Years 7 and 8 each home learning should take pupils approximately 30 minutes; in Year 9 each home learning should take approximately 45 minutes. Whenever possible extension tasks or questions will be suggested so that pupils who complete the core task quickly or easily can be extended. Home learning assignments will be marked by the class teacher every week, giving feedback, encouragement and advice as appropriate.

Pupils will often be expected to reattempt questions marked incorrect and will certainly be expected to seek advice on matters which cause them difficulty.

Beyond the Classroom

Various workshops are available after school during the week. Pupils are encouraged to come in and ask for help on any area in which they are not confident. Workshops are also an additional means by which pupils can be extended and throughout the year pupils can attend extension clubs aimed at particular year groups. Revision classes are offered in the weeks leading up to exams.

How Parents can Help

All pupils are expected to attend every Mathematics lesson with the following equipment:
pen, pencil, ruler, eraser, sharpener, calculator (Casio, fx-83ES recommended), protractor, pair of compasses.

Please check that your son/daughter has these items, and make time to look at their work, thereby showing an interest in their achievements.

Regular practice of mental arithmetic skills is important. Parents can be invaluable in supporting pupils in learning or improving their recall of tables, facts and number bonds. Parents can encourage pupils to use their Mathematics regularly in everyday activities, for example in comparing the value of goods when shopping, in following recipes and weighing and measuring. Games, computer or otherwise, can make transformation of shape and regular number practice great fun.

Securing Success

When home learnings are not submitted at the correct time or do not reflect the required effort the pupil will be detained at lunchtime or after school in order to do the required work properly. Should the student be experiencing a great deal of difficulty and either becoming anxious or disinterested, the pupil’s parents will be contacted so that we can work together to improve the situation.

Staff

Acting Head of department - Miss Nicole Paynter
If at any stage you are concerned or have any questions relating to Mathematics please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Mathematics teacher or Miss Paynter. We will be pleased to arrange an interview at a mutually convenient time.