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Core - Maths

GCSE MATHEMATICS 

Core 

What Will You Do? 
You will build on mathematical concepts taught during Key Stage 3 Mathematics. 
These will include: the learning and practice of basic skills in Number, Algebra, Geometry, Ratio and Proportion and Statistics. 
You will also develop:
Problem-solving skills, to use and apply your mathematical knowledge to new situations; Functional skills, to be able to apply your knowledge to real life situations. 

During the course, through teachers, students and parents/carers working together, it is hoped that you will: 

  • Achieve the highest grade you can at GCSE;
  • Develop a positive attitude towards mathematics; 
  • Become aware of how mathematics relates to many different aspects of everyday life, industry, business and other areas of the curriculum; 
  • Make appropriate use of ICT; 
  • Develop a feel for number and be able to carry out necessary calculations, with and without a calculator, with confidence; 
  • Develop an understanding of mathematics, through enquiry and problem-solving. 

Functional Mathematics will also be covered within the delivery of GCSE Mathematics. 

 

How Will You Do It? 
You will be placed in a group, with people of a similar ability. Moves between groups will take place as the need arises.
Learning situations will include: 

  • Instruction in and practice of, working on various topic areas, with and without calculators;
  • Working on problem-solving, mathematical communication and developing strategies for using and applying mathematics in different situations;
  • Taking tests on various topics. These will demonstrate your attainment level in these areas, and help to show what you need to work on in order to make progress and achieve your full potential. 

All students will be entered for GCSE Mathematics. Students must have a Scientific Calculator for all lessons as two out of the three papers require the use of a calculator.

 

Fast or Dual Maths 
Some of our most-able mathematicians will be selected for Fast or Dual Maths at the end of Year 9. During Year 9, they will study GCSE Mathematics and then based on their performance throughout Year 9, 30 students will be selected for Fast Maths and 30 students will be selected for Dual Maths. 

Fast Maths: One group of students will take the GCSE Mathematics examination at the end of Year 10. These students will follow GCSE Mathematics during Year 10 and then during Year 11 they will study GCSE Statistics and a Free-Standing Mathematics Qualification called Level 2 Further Mathematics, which is excellent preparation for further studies at A-Level. 

Dual Maths: Another group of students will study GCSE Mathematics and GCSE Statistics concurrently during Year 10 and 11.


What Qualifications Can You Obtain? 
The GCSE Mathematics course is structured to allow you to work at a level with which you can cope, and allow you to demonstrate your ability in all areas of mathematics. There are two tiers of entry available: Foundation Tier Grades 5 4 3 2 1 Higher Tier Grades 9 8 7 6 5 4 
Final tiering decisions are not made until Year 11, and you will be entered in a tier appropriate to your individual ability.

 

How Will Your Work Be Assessed?

Examinations (three papers—1 hour 30 minutes each) 100% of qualification (Two calculator papers and one non-calculator paper) 

 

For further information, please contact your Maths Teacher or Miss Charnell, Subject Leader for Mathematics. 

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