COURSE CONTENT

The schemes of work in Years 10 and 11 will support entry into the two tier GCSE examination. They detail the topics and learning objectives to be covered. Staff are encouraged to use a variety of teaching and learning strategies which may include book work, investigational approaches, practical sessions, interactive ICT materials, researching a new area of study and aural testing.

COURSE CONTENT

The schemes of work in Years 10 and 11 will support entry into the two tier GCSE examination. They detail the topics and learning objectives to be covered. Staff are encouraged to use a variety of teaching and learning strategies which may include book work, investigational approaches, practical sessions, interactive ICT materials, researching a new area of study and aural testing.

During the course pupils will develop the knowledge, skills and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts including: number and algebra, geometry and measures, statistics and probability. Elements of functional maths will be embedded into the schemes of work to ensure that pupils have the opportunity to develop the skills they need to use mathematics in real life contexts. The use of ICT is encouraged throughout the course, in particular the proficient use of calculators. At the same time the importance of ‘pencil and paper’ arithmetic methods are stressed via regular practice.

ASSESSMENT

Pupil progress is constantly being assessed as they learn in the classroom under the teacher’s supervision. Some of the most useful assessments take place when the teacher talks to the pupils about their work. Other more formal assessments include three progress tests in Year 10 and a mock examination in Year 11, which will be used to confirm the tier of entry and predicted GCSE grade for each pupil.

EXAMINATION

Pupils will study and be entered for the most appropriate tier.

There will be two examinations, one non-calculator, one calculator, each with a weighting of 50%. Each paper will assess a pupil’s ability to recall, select and apply their knowledge of mathematics and to interpret, analyse and solve problems.

HOME LEARNING

Home learning is set to all classes twice a week and should engage a pupil for an hour on each occasion.

EDUCATION EXTRA & SUPPORT

Workshops are available throughout the week, during Enrichment time. Tiered revision sessions take place in Year 11 and there is also an Easter Maths Revision day during the holiday period.

HOW PARENTS CAN HELP

All pupils are expected to attend every mathematics lesson with the following equipment:

SECURING SUCCESS

When a pupil does not pass an assessment (short tests, longer examinations or coursework assignment), he/she will be asked to attend a workshop to have the difficult areas explained. Later the pupil may be allowed to re-sit the assessment and the higher of the two marks may be recorded. If home learnings are not submitted at the correct time, or do not reflect the required effort, the pupil will be detained after school in order to resubmit the assignment with help from staff. Should the pupil be experiencing a great deal of difficulty or becoming anxious or disinterested, parents/carers will be contacted so that we can work together to improve the situation.

STAFF

Head of Mathematics – 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 Nicole Paynter. We will be pleased to arrange an interview at a mutually convenient time.