Year 7 Mathematics is taught in broadly-banded groups based on ability with differentiation within the group. In Years 8 and 9 the classes are set by ability. 

Aims

• To secure and build on the student's achievements at primary school.

• To encourage students to develop their thinking skills and problem-solving abilities.

• To enable students to use their mathematical knowledge across the whole curriculum with confidence.

• To ensure that every student is given the opportunity to work to the limit of their potential.

 

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Meeting Individual Needs

Before students arrive at Northgate, liaison work with the primary schools and transfer information gives us a clear indication of the potential of each student. We enjoy good support from the Learning Support team so that those who are less able at Mathematics receive extra help with basic concepts. Equally, we strive to promote the very best and each year some of our students are selected for national competitions.

 

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Methods of Working

There are opportunities for a variety of learning styles. These include problem-solving; investigations; practical mathematics; teacher exposition; routine practice; use of spreadsheet, database and dynamic geometry and graphing computer programs; strategy games and discussion. Homework will be regularly set in line with the school policy.

 

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The Course

There are three main areas of mathematics addressed:

• Number and algebra – this focusses on general calculations and introduces abstract reasoning and problem-solving

• Shape, space and measures – this helps develop spatial awareness and also introduces various concepts of proof

• Data handling – in a world ruled more and more by data, this helps develop the representation and analysis of data whilst testing hypotheses.

 

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Equipment

Part of the curriculum involves mathematical skills without the use of a calculator but for much of the time access to calculators will be actively encouraged. It would greatly help if every student has their own scientific calculator. In addition, each student should bring a ruler, protractor and a pair of compasses to every mathematics lesson.

What will students learn?

Students will develop the ability to:

• Use and apply mathematics effectively in everyday situations
• Set out mathematical problems clearly using the appropriate symbols
• Think abstractly using algebra
• Organise and present information in a variety of forms (e.g. tabular or graphical)
• Perform calculations by suitable methods (including mental methods and the use of calculators)
• Work accurately
• Recognise patterns and structure
• Recognise and use spatial relationships in 2 and 3 dimensions
• Use mathematical instruments to draw to an acceptable degree of accuracy
• Carry out investigational work
• Discuss mathematical ideas

 

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How will students be taught?

There are opportunities for a variety of learning styles. These include problem-solving; investigations; practical Mathematics; teacher exposition; routine practice; use of dynamic geometry and graphing computer programs; strategy games and discussion. Homework will be regularly set in order to consolidate on previously learned concepts, to gauge understanding and act as ongoing revision.

All specialist mathematics rooms are equipped with interactive screens.

 

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How will students be assessed?

The course will be assessed through written examination papers only.

Candidates are entered for their final examination papers at different levels, according to their individual progress and attainment:

Higher level will award grades 4-9 (with 9 being the highest).
Foundation level will award grades 1-5.

Two of the three GCSE examination papers are set with the expectation that students will have a scientific calculator.

 

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Examination board & course type

OCR - GCSE Mathematics (J560)

 

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What can studying this subject lead to?

GCSE Grade 4 in Mathematics will be needed for many further education courses, apprenticeships, jobs and university degrees. Grade 5 may be required for certain post-16 courses and careers; Grade 6 will be needed for some specific A Levels including Mathematics and Grade 7 for Further Mathematics.

 

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Revision Advice

A subject specific guide featuring key content, recommended resources and the specifications we cover in that particular subject can be downloaded below: