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Maths

The Maths Department currently consists of seven maths specialists and has its own suite of five classrooms, two of which are well equipped with computers. Education through stimulation is seen by us as the most effective form of learning and we strive to make maths enjoyable and informative. Many students consistently achieve at a high level across all Key Stages.

As a Technology College, we place particular emphasis on maths and the work is both challenging and rewarding. Textbooks, as well as a variety of other resources including computers, are used effectively in all lessons. We encourage pupils to use ICT to support their studies and offer various software packages including SuccessMaker and MyMaths. All pupils in Years 7, 8 and 9 have an opportunity to use ICT to support and extend their learning. Higher up the school, the use of interactive whiteboards and graphical calculators further enhance students’ understanding. The department annually enters pupils for the UK Maths Challenge (Junior, Intermediate & Senior sections).

Equipment required by all students is as follows:
• Pen & spare pen
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Calculator
Protractors and pairs of compasses will also be required at certain times during the year. For higher ability classes and at GCSE level, a scientific calculator is essential. The maths department runs a ‘not-for-profit’ shop selling equipment.

At Key Stage 3 classes are taught as tutor groups in Year 7 and then set according to ability in Years 8 & 9. Pupil progress is carefully monitored throughout the year to ensure correct placement within class groups and movement is possible at any time if it is appropriate. Teaching follows structured schemes of work covering Number, Algebra, Shape Space & Measure and Handling Data. Regular mini-projects, investigations and CAME (Cognitive Acceleration in Mathematical Education) lessons are also given throughout the year to encourage and improve mathematical thinking. The maths department is currently using the Level Up series of textbooks published by Heinemann.
At Easter of Year 9 pupils do a summative test which provides a National Curriculum level of attainment. This is used to help decide level which tier at GCSE (Higher or Foundation) is most appropriate for each student. Students then spend the summer term of Year 9 beginning the GCSE course.

At Easter of Year 9 pupils do a summative test which provides a National Curriculum level of attainment. This is used to help decide level which tier at GCSE (Higher or Foundation) is most appropriate for each student. Students then spend the summer term of Year 9 beginning the GCSE course.

At Key Stage 4 (GCSE) the syllabus consists of a mixture of arithmetic, geometry, algebra and statistics. It aims to develop mathematical knowledge and oral, written and practical skills. It also aims to apply mathematics in everyday situations and develop an understanding of the part which mathematics plays in the world. Some students are offered the possibility of taking an extra GCSE in Statistics.
The maths department is currently following the AQA Modular course for GCSE and the timetable is as follows:

 

			Topics covered	% of final grade
Year 10	November	Unit 1	Statistics and Number	27%
Year 10	June	Unit 2	Number and some Algebra	33%
Year 11	June	Unit 3	Geometry and Algebra	40%

 There is currently no coursework requirement. For more detailed information see here or go the AQA website.

Pupils will be entered for mathematics at one of two tiers. They are:
• HIGHER Tier
GCSE grades available A* - D
• FOUNDATION Tier
GCSE grades available C - G
It is possible to both retake earlier modules and move between tiers where appropriate.

The maths department is currently following the AQA Modular course for GCSE and the timetable is as follows:

There is no coursework requirement.

Pupils will be entered for mathematics at one of two tiers. They are:

• HIGHER Tier - GCSE grades available A* - D
• FOUNDATION Tier - GCSE grades available C - G

It is possible to both retake earlier modules and move between tiers where appropriate.

Maths in the Sixth Form can be combined successfully with a variety of subjects. Whilst being of obvious use to the scientist, it adds extra dimensions and ways of studying for others. The A level course is a challenging but accessible course which develops ability and confidence in mathematics of the world and society in which we live.
The maths department is currently following the AQA A-level course and, in recent years, students have taken the Decision 1 & 2 units alongside the four Pure Core Mathematics units.
Further Maths is also offered at AS and A2 level. We aim to provide a course which is available for students with a good grade at GCSE. This course comprises mainly of independent learning with tutorial sessions each week. The main principles of the course are that students are actively involved in developing mathematical ideas.

Modules covered:

• Pure Maths
• Decision
• Mechanics
• Statistics