Mathematics

KS 3
About the course
Pupils are introduced to Mathematics using a variety of teaching styles, based on a two-year model and technologies giving them the best opportunity to learn and understand the various concepts involved. High expectations are required to ensure a good foundation for KS4.

Use of interactive learning website MyMaths is made where pupils are given online homework; this enables parents to be able to assess their son’s progress at any time.

What they will learn
Over the two years students will learn a range of topics within Number, Algebra, Shape and Space and Data Handling. Emphasis will be made on functional skills and ability to use Mathematics in everyday life.

How it will be assessed
Internally assessed using prior KS3 examination material.

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KS 4
About the course
Based on a two-year model where pupils are examined at the end of Year 10. Year 11 provides a third year to improve on grades achieved in the prior year though high achieving candidates will have the option to take extra courses in Year 11, namely Statistics and Further Mathematics where appropriate.

MyMaths is used to provide homework but is also a great resource for personal study; parents can monitor their son’s activity and success online.

What they will learn
Pupils will further their knowledge and conceptual understanding of Mathematics within the areas of Number, Algebra, Shape and Space and Data Handling, though there will be a greater focus on Number and Algebra for the more able student. Functional skills will also be a key area where pupils will be expected to be confident using Mathematics in a variety of everyday situations.

How it will be assessed
Terminal external exam after the two years and an additional exam will be taken in the 3rd and final year to allow the greatest opportunity of success.
The Mathematics exam has two papers of equal weighting taken on different days. Paper 1 is a non calculator exam and Paper 2 allows the use of a calculator.
Coursework is not a component of the assessment.

Exam board
Edexcel

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KS 5
About the course
The Mathematics A Level is a two-year course where students will take three modules each year, which Mathematics is a very demanding A Level,  students will need to be prepared to complete a great deal of study at home, their teachers will monitor them weekly to ensure all work has been completed.

The quality of teaching at A level is very high, pupils are taught with a variety of methods to help explain difficult conceptual ideas and create more attractive lessons; this has led to our great success in recent years.

A Level Mathematics is a very prestigious course, successful candidates will benefit from greater job opportunities in the future.

Entry requirement is 6 GCSEs grade A to C including at least a grade B in Mathematics.

What they will learn
Core modules include trigonometrical and exponential functions, sequences and series, an introduction to calculus and cartesian geometry.

Statistics modules include analysing and interpretation of data and probability distributions. Mechanics modules include laws of Newton, dynamics and vectors.

How it will be assessed
Internal exams every half-term.
External module exams in January and June each year.
Coursework is not a component of the assessment.

Homework is based on exam questions, marked and then interactive discussions with pupils are conducted.

Exam board
Edexcel

Future Career Paths in subject
Education
As a core subject Mathematics is required for many courses in further education, common courses are: Mathematics, Medicine, Engineering, Teaching to name a few.

Employment 
Medicine, Scientific Research, Design and Development, Management Services and Computing, Financial work including Accountancy and Actuarial work, Statistical work, Teaching.

Head of Department:
Mr Costello

Email:
costellot@cfbs.islington.sch.uk