Mathematics

Key Stage 3

Our Key Stage 3 pupils follow a ‘Mastery’ styled approach to studying Mathematics. This involves exploring a few related mathematical concepts in real depth each half-term, allowing the pupils to develop a deeper understanding of each.

We place a good deal of importance in offering a variety of diverse activities, many of which are practical in nature, to enable all our learners to gain full access to the curriculum. We focus on developing fluency both in factual recall and in computational skills, as well as exploring systematic ways of working and on sharpening communication and reasoning skills.

Year 7

Year 8

Year 9

Key Stage 3 pupils have hour long lessons. Over the two-week timetable there are six lessons in total. Homework is set once per week lasting for approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the nature of the task.

Numeracy Ninjas

Fluency in calculations is important for our pupils to be successful in all areas of Mathematics. Given this, each lesson our Key Stage 3 pupils take part in a timed, numeracy skills enhancement program.

Improvements in skills are rewarded with ‘Ninja’ stickers and certificates. There is the opportunity for independent learners to further their skills outside of lessons too. We have found the scheme to be an effective and motivational tool to help improve the numeracy and recall skills of all pupils who have participated.

KS3 Assessment Grids

Key Stage 4

Key Stage 4 pupils have hour-long lessons. Over the two-week timetable, there are nine lessons in total. Homework is set twice per week lasting for approximately 45 minutes, depending on the nature of the task.

This is a linear qualification. To achieve the award, students must complete all exams in a single year. All assessments must be taken in the same series. All GCSE exams in mathematics must include questions that allow students to draw on elements from within and across different topic areas, and questions that allow students to provide extended responses.

GCSE Mathematics

AQA Mathematics (8300)

From June 2017 a new grading structure will be implemented: 1 – 9, across two tiers, Foundation and Higher. Grade 5 is considered to be a good pass and grade 9 being the highest, set above the previous grade of A*. The new system is intended to help provide more differentiation, especially among higher achieving students.

The format and style of questions will differ from those previously seen on GCSE Maths papers with a greater emphasis placed on communicating solutions effectively and on problem solving.

Students will work on strengthening their skills in all areas and will continue to do so, making use of resources provided by AQA to support this.

There will be three papers, equally weighted, one of which will be non-calculator. The Higher tier will be awarded grades 4 – 9 with 9 being the highest. Foundation tier will be awarded grades 1 – 5.

GCSE Computer Science Students will receive weekly homework consisting of exam style questions related to content studied that week. Students will also be assessed on their comprehension every half term in exam conditions and receive a grade per module.

ITQ students will receive occasional homework as the majority of coursework must be completed under supervised conditions.

Further Study

A sound pass at grade 4 or above is desirable for access to many post-16 College courses. Successful Higher Tier candidates could continue their Mathematical studies at A Level. Maths is one of the best subjects to develop your analytical, research and problem-solving skills. It helps us to find patterns and structure in our lives and will give you the knowledge to tackle scientific, mechanical, coding and abstract problems.

Maths can lead to many different careers including finance, business consultancy, teaching, scientific research, construction, accountancy and engineering to name a few.

Suggested Revision Materials

The following books and online resources will be useful in supporting students in their studies: