Department Leader: Charlotte Knight

The KBA Mathematics Department are dedicated to supporting students’ learning at all levels, offering a wide range of specialisms from basic numeracy to Further Maths.

Mathematics is a very conceptual subject so it is taught in sets. Your child will be placed in a set which is appropriate for their ability. This is based on data from:

SAT tests undertaken during their final year at junior school
Maths baseline assessment

Students are taught in sets for the duration of their time in KS3 and KS4 in accordance with their ability. Setting is reviewed on a regular basis to ensure that each student has every opportunity to make excellent progress.

Key Stage 3

The Scheme of Learning consists of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Lessons are fully differentiated with an emphasis on mastering a skill and being able to apply it fully. Students have every opportunity to aim high and complete tasks at their targeted level. Each KPI is assessed using a Knowledge Assessment – these consist of fluency questions and problem solving. 

Progress is monitored in three ways:

Students are assessed using Knowledge Assessments for each KPI
Cumulative Mid Year assessments
Cumulative End of year examinations.

For example, the Year 8 mid year assessment will also cover topics from Year 7 to ensure knowledge is retained.

Sparx Homework

Year 7, 8 and 9 students use Sparx which is an online platform. The website sets 60 minutes worth of homework which asks questions on what they have covered recently in lesson as well as consolidating prior knowledge. The website uses an algorithm to match the difficulty of the work with the attainment of the students and provides a tutorial video where needed. The students must show all working in their book and the website will perform book checks where the student enters answers to previous questions to ensure they are being written down clearly and can be referred to. Further information and support can be found by clicking the links below.

Sparx Maths Introduction

How to log in as a Student

How your Sparx book should look

Key Stage 4

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.

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

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

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. 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 Sparx which is an online platform. The website sets 60 minutes worth of homework which asks questions on what they have covered recently in lesson as well as consolidating prior knowledge. The website uses an algorithm to match the difficulty of the work with the attainment of the students and provides a tutorial video where needed. The students must show all working in their book and the website will perform book checks where the student enters answers to previous questions to ensure they are being written down clearly and can be referred to. Further information and support can be found by clicking the links below.

Sparx Maths Introduction

How to log in as a Student

How your Sparx book should look

Year 11

Year 11 students will complete homework on Sparx alongside exam papers. This will be set by the class teacher and due in the same day. Sparx works in the same way at Year 10 and exam papers will be introduced throughout the year to help students prepare for mock assessments in November and March and then the GCSE examinations starting in May. All details will be on Satchel One so students are clear what they need to complete and what the deadline is.