Mathematics (original) (raw)
Mathematics
Mathematics
AIMS
- To provide pupils with the mathematical skills needed in everyday life and to understand the contexts in which these skills are used.
- To enable pupils to develop confidence in the use of Mathematics and thus to achieve their full Mathematical potential.
- Pupils should also develop technical skills that they can apply to a range of familiar and unfamiliar problems and acquire the technical knowledge that may be needed for their study of other subjects. Above all, pupils should develop an attitude to the study of Mathematics as a valuable, worthwhile and useful subject and develop an enjoyment of Mathematics.
CURRICULUM
Key Stage 3
In Years 7-8, all pupils are taught the same course, following the Key Stage 3 National Curriculum. The higher the set or band, the greater the difficulty and depth each topic will be investigated. Pupils are taught in mixed ability classes in Year 7 before being placed into sets in Year 8. This allows us to thoroughly assess and understand the capabilities and needs of our pupils. The sets/bands decrease in size, so that the lower sets have fewer pupils and can benefit from greater teacher contact time.
Key Stage 4 From Year 9 pupils follow Edexcel Mathematics GCSE. The GCSE places a greater emphasis on problem solving and the overall level of difficulty is much greater with content moving down from A level. Pupils considering further study are also given the option of taking the AQA Level 2 Certificate in Further Mathematics which is taught as an additional course after school.
FACILITIES AND RESOURCES
The department is based in Queen’s Wing. Six classrooms are exclusively used for the teaching of Mathematics, each with data projection. SparxMaths is used to provide personalised homework for pupils in Key Stage 3 and 4 and A level students have access to web based resources provided by Edexcel. One smaller room is used only for Sixth Form teaching. As well as IT resources, the department is well equipped with mini-whiteboards and a range of puzzles and activity-based learning resources to enrich the learning experience.
TRIPS AND VISITS
The Department takes part in regional heats of both the UK Mathematics Trust Team Challenge and Senior Team Challenge. In recent years, groups of pupils have taken part in mathematics seminars and courses at local universities such as Manchester and Lancaster.
EXTRA CURRICULAR
The department runs additional courses and support sessions for Senior School and Sixth Form pupils at lunchtimes and after school throughout the week.
Mr D Roocroft
Head of Mathematics and Computer Science