Curriculum Leader:
- Mr N Donlon
Department Staff:
- Mr S Tait (Assistant Head of Department)
- Mrs V Jobson (New Curriculum Leader)
- Mrs T Bright
- Mrs D Ellis
KS3 Maths and Numeracy:
Pupils follow a specific scheme of work based on key topics and is based around preparing for the GCSE course. Most of the topics on the scheme are based on GCSE and pupils spend time improving key skills along with specific tests as part of assessment for their final KS3 level.
During the course pupils will also build up their Numeracy skills and at the end of each year they sit the National Numeracy Tests which gives valuable information about their progress.
In Year 9 the GCSE course starts in parallel with starting the GCSE Curriculum.
KS4 Maths and Numeracy:
The exam board that pupils follow is WJEC. WJEC provide a syllabus that is stimulating and motivating. The course is split equally into two parts which are Numeracy and Mathematics and pupils will sit both exams at the end of Year 11.
Each of the two courses are split into two exams that consist of a calculator and non-calculator paper. Each paper is 1 hour and 45 minutes and there is now coursework.
There are three tiers of entry; higher, intermediate and Foundation. As a general rule the majority of pupils are expected to take Higher level or intermediate.
Homework:
Homework is set using the pixl maths apps that include many activities. The department also gives information to pupils and further written homework using google classrooms. A login and password are required for the above allowing work to be done securely online.
Equipment:
It is essential that pupils bring the correct equipment including a scientific calculator and we would recommend a Casio model. This is important because there is only enough time to teach one calculator method and if your pupil has a different model then it can lead to confusion.
Other equipment that is needed is a protractor, ruler, sharp pencil and rubber.
Assessments:
Assessments are made on a regular basis and vary depending on the nature of the topic. This is usually following a topic and followed up with SMART targets.
There will be opportunities for pupils to volunteer to attend extra lessons. Most of these will take place after school in Year 11 but there may be opportunities to attend specific workshops. These will be set up in accordance with classroom needs.
The department don’t use a specific text book but would recommend getting revision cards. One of the best revision strategies is to use the cards to access videos and extra questions.
Most of the syllabus will be covered in Year 9 and 10 and the Autumn term of Year 1. This will allow plenty of time for targeted revision and past paper practice which is essential for maximizing grades.