MATHEMATICS
Welcome to the Mathematics Department!
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Mathematics is a fundamental part logic and reasoning, which in turn plays an important role in developing skills used across the curriculum in subjects such as science, humanities and art. The problem-solving skills we develop in maths helps us to understand how the world works and what part we play in it. In the mathematics department, we believe in every student’s God-given gifts and always strive to ensure each and every one reaches their potential in maths. Every student has the opportunity to take two Mathematics qualifications at the level which maximises their achievements.
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KEY STAGE 3 SUMMARY
Year 7 have the opportunity to study the number system, including fractions, decimals and percentages. They carry out time calculations and learn the areas of various 2D shapes. They practise collecting and interpreting data and also have the chance to carry out experiments on probability. Their journey into algebra begins with formulae and equations.
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Year 8 delve further into the number system to link together fractions, decimals and percentages and carry out calculations with them. They interpret data and display them as various charts and graphs. They refine their map skills by learning about coordinates, grid references and bearings. Algebra skills are refined by generating formulae and using brackets.
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Year 9 begin their GCSE Mathematics and GCSE Mathematics - Numeracy course, covering topics across number, shape space and measure, data handling and algebra. They consolidate the skills learned in Years 7 and 8 and adapt this to GCSE level questions.
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KEY STAGE 4 SUMMARY
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All pupils take GCSE Mathematics and GCSE Mathematics-Numeracy qualifications. The scheme of assessment for each qualification will consist of two written papers.
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Course Content
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The Mathematics - Numeracy course content covers Number, Measure and Statistics plus some aspects of Algebra, Geometry and Probability. The written paper for each tier will comprise a number of short and longer, both structured and unstructured questions which may be set on any part of the subject content of the specification. Some of these questions will involve different parts that assess different aspects of numeracy but in the same context. Part-questions may vary in level of demand. Some questions will use multiple-choice assessment.
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The Mathematics GCSE content covers all the content of GCSE Mathematics – Numeracy and Additional Algebra, Geometry and Probability.
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Assessment Details
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Assessment for GCSE Mathematics - Numeracy is tiered, i.e. externally assessed papers are targeted at the grade ranges of A* - C (Higher Tier), B – E (Intermediate Tier) and D - G (Foundation Tier). Questions will be designed to enable candidates to demonstrate what they know, understand and can do.
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Grades Available
Higher Tier: A*, A, B, C
Intermediate Tier: B, C, D, E
Foundation Tier: D, E, F, G
Pupils working at Higher Tier have the opportunity to complete the Level 2 qualification in Additional Mathematics, which bridges the content between GCSE and A Level Mathematics.
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POST-16 SUMMARY
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The course comprises units in Pure Mathematics, Mechanics and Statistics. Students will have the opportunity to study modules that cover both Pure and Applied Mathematics.
The new WJEC specification offers 4 units with the following weighting:
AS Mathematics (Year 12)
Unit 1 – Pure Mathematics (25%) – This unit will develop and advance students’ knowledge of algebra, calculus, coordinate geometry and trigonometry.
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Unit 2 – Applied Mathematics (15%) - This unit is divided equally between Statistics and Mechanics. For the statistics component, students will have the opportunity to study statistical distributions, investigate advanced probability and hypothesis testing and further their knowledge of correlation and regression. The mechanics topics include the study of dynamics (the mechanics of motion) and statics (the study of force systems).
A Level Mathematics (Year 13)
Unit 3 – Pure Mathematics (35%) – Leading on from Unit 1, further skills with calculus and trigonometry will be developed and students will investigate sequences and series.
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Unit 4 – Applied Mathematics (25%) – The skills from Unit 2 will be developed further, with the opportunity to study more advanced statistical distributions. The mechanics component will incorporate kinematics in 2 and 3 dimensions and further explore Newton’s Laws of motion.
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For students who enjoy mathematics, the A Level Further Mathematics course offers the chance to explore more sophisticated topics and can reinforce the grades achieved in A Level Mathematics. It can also make the transition between A Level and mathematically-rich university courses easier. Individuals with an A Level in Further Mathematics distinguish themselves as extremely capable mathematicians when applying for jobs or university courses.
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EXTRA CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES
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There is a homework club three times a week plus chess club once a week. Pupils have the opportunity to enter the UK Mathematics Trust Challenges each year.
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USEFUL LINKS
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https://www.wjec.co.uk/qualifications/mathematics-gcse/#tab_overview
https://www.wjec.co.uk/qualifications/mathematics-a-as-level/#tab_keydocuments
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