Head of Department:	Mrs K Jones
Specification:	Edexcel
Qualification:	GCSE in Mathematics

PROGRAMME OF STUDY

We use mathematics to explain and understand the world we live in and to make predictions about what will happen in the future. Mathematics is a problem-solving tool that allows us to develop an understanding of all things in the world in which we live.

You will continue to develop and consolidate connections across mathematical ideas. You will build on the skills learnt at Key Stage 3 covering number, ratio, algebra, geometry and handling data in more detail.

You will learn new skills and techniques in these areas, and then apply them in practical situations to see how mathematics solves rich and sophisticated real life problems.

There is now a much greater emphasis in the assessment of mathematics being used in real life situations. You should also apply your mathematical knowledge wherever relevant in other subjects and in financial contexts.

HOW IS THE COURSE STRUCTURED & ASSESSED?

The GCSE mathematics course relies on you having grasped mathematical methods in Years 7, 8, and 9. Mathematics in every year continues to build on the knowledge learnt in previous years to ensure progress over time. Problem solving underpins maths lessons to enable you to tackle complex problems and to apply knowledge learnt across the age range to deepen mathematical concepts and to become great problem solvers. You have the opportunity to apply problem solving skills to answer a range of questions in an examination series at the end of Year 11. You require these skills to access the questions and show your mathematical ability and application of maths in everyday life.

There are two main ways that pupils’ work is assessed:

1. a) Internally:

Mathematics teachers provide feedback to you on your progress by marking exercise books, homeworks, complete progress checks and through assessments and mock examinations.

We offer supportive advice that stems from all of the above methods to ensure all pupils understand their main areas of development and to make sure you make the necessary progress in line with your peers. Class sizes are smaller than the average class sizes nationally to facilitate targeted support in key areas. This support will further help you to achieve or exceed your target grade in mathematics.

We offer supportive advice that stems from all of the above methods to ensure all of our pupils understand their main areas of development and to make sure they make the necessary progress in line with their peers. Class sizes are smaller than the average class sizes nationally to facilitate targeted support in key areas. This support will further help pupils to achieve or exceed their target grade in mathematics.

1. b) Externally:

You will sit a full GCSE examination at the end of Year 11. This comprises of three examination papers with the duration of 1 hour 30 minutes per examination. All exams carry equal weighting. Paper 1 is a non-calculator exam and papers 2 and 3 will require a scientific calculator.

You will be entered at either Higher or Foundation Tier in line with the new grading system: Higher Tier (Possible grades achieved 9 - 4) or Foundation Tier (possible grades achieved 5 - 1) based on your performance and teacher assessment.

WHAT CAN THESE QUALIFICATIONS LEAD TO?

Many careers and higher education courses require a ‘standard pass’ at a grade 4 and ‘strong pass’ at a grade 5.

Studying Maths opens up the possibility of a diverse range of future career paths; some examples include working as Financial analyst, Accountant, Game Designer and an Engineer.