Mathematics
Key Stage 3
Our Key Stage 3 pupils follow the White Rose Maths scheme of work. This is based on a ‘Mastery’ styled approach to studying Mathematics whereby pupils explore a few related mathematical concepts in 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.
For each lesson, pupils need to have the following equipment: pen, pencil, ruler, scientific calculator… and a protractor and pair of compasses would also be useful!
Key Stage 3 pupils have hour long lessons. Over the two-week timetable there are six lessons in total. Homework is set twice per week and usually involves a skills check to improve retrieval, a paper-based homework or an online assignment on a platform such as Dr Frost Maths.
Click below for the Mathematics Scheme of Work
Key Stage 4
In Year 10 and 11, Key Stage 4 pupils study for the AQA Mathematics GCSE. They have nine lessons over the two-week timetable. The AQA Mathematics GCSE is split into two tiers: Foundation tier and Higher tier. Pupils can achieve grades 1-5 on the Foundation tier and grades 3-9 on the Higher tier.
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 was 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 Mathematics 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.
- Paper 1: 1 hour 30 minutes • 80 marks • non-calculator • 33⅓%
- Paper 2: 1 hour 30 minutes • 80 marks • calculator allowed • 33⅓%
- Paper 3: 1 hour 30 minutes • 80 marks • calculator allowed • 33⅓%
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: