During KS4, all students follow the Edexcel GCSE syllabus at Key Stage 4. The GCSE course incorporates all aspects of Mathematics: number, algebra, ratio, proportion and rates of change, geometry and measures, probability and statistics. It focuses on applying Mathematics in context, problem solving, reasoning and the functional elements of Mathematics, concentrating on the knowledge and applications that are most accessible and relevant. The course is a linear scheme with three exams at the end of Year 11, consisting of 1 non-calculator paper and 2 calculator papers.
During KS4, and alongside GCSE Mathematics, there is an opportunity for selected students to follow additional Mathematical courses.
These are:
Edexcel GCSE Statistics develops skills that students will use in other subjects such as science and geography, and reinforces techniques needed for GCSE maths as well as supporting progression to A level maths. Real-life scenarios will capture their interest and give them an insight into the importance of statistics in the real world.
AQA Entry Level Mathematics provides basic and relevant mathematical skills and can support students who can find it difficult at times to access the GCSE course. The specification is co-teachable with GCSE, to suit students who are studying both qualifications.
The grading for these courses, is as follows:
GCSE Mathematics
This course is a tiered examination with two levels of entry:
• the Higher tier awards grades 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, (Grade 3 allowed)
• the Foundation tier awards grades 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
AQA Entry Level Mathematics
To complete the course, students’ complete tasks to show their understanding of key mathematical skills. Students are then awarded Entry Level 1, 2 or 3.
Homework
Year 10
Year 10 students use Hegarty Maths website which is an online platform. Students are expected to complete at least 60 minutes per week. This would normally equate to making notes from 2 videos and completing 2 tasks. All notes from the videos and working out for the tasks must be completed in their Hegarty book. Each student will have a personal login and watch the video for each task and complete the questions. They can message their teacher for assistance via Hegarty Maths. However, an immediate response is generally not possible.
Year 11
All students must use Hegarty Maths which is an online platform. Students are expected to complete at least 60 minutes per week. This homework is a mixture of making notes and completing tasks as set by the teacher. All homework must be completed in their Hegarty book. They can message their teacher for assistance via Hegarty Maths. However, an immediate response is generally not possible.
Every student is also issued with an exam booklet to complete per term. These are set, and every student has 1 to 2 weeks to complete each paper fully.