Maths

Mathematics 

 

Learning mathematics develops logical reasoning, analysis, problem-solving skills and the ability to think in abstract ways, as well as offering opportunities for creativity. It is a universal language of numbers and symbols. 

 

Mathematics is important in everyday life, allowing us to make sense of the world around us. It gives us confidence in dealing with numbers and in understanding shape, position and movement. It enables us to think abstractly, model real-life situations and make generalisations, it equips us with the skills we need to interpret and analyse information, assess risk and make informed decisions. 

 

Mathematics is based on 6 big ideas. 

 

Number 

Ratio and Proportion 

Algebra 

Geometry 

Data Analysis 

Probability 

 

Our curriculum is an ambitious five to seven year programme, gradually leading to the mastery of these 6 big ideas.  The development of mastery comes from our curriculum focusing on fluency, reasoning and problem solving. The spiral progression of skills from year 7 to 11 has been carefully thought through and resourced with these three strands of learning in mind.  

 

 

Knowledge:  

Understanding: 

Skills: 

  • Statements of fact, formulae, definitions and theorems 

  • Agreed processes and methods for the efficient solving of problems 

  • Key vocabulary designed to explain and aid the sharing of knowledge. 

  • Recognise previously learnt concepts within unfamiliar problems 

  • Make judgements about the “best” method to use 

  • Analysis for problem solving 

  • Communication of mathematical ideas 

 

 

 

We encourage our students to experience success in mathematics and develop the confidence to take risks, ask questions and explore alternative solutions without fear of being wrong. Students are encouraged to explore different thinking strategies within the curriculum. Students are encouraged to trust their instincts, recall facts that can be applied to problems, look for processes to apply to problem, think about limitations and issues with problems and to think of solutions to overcome these problems. They will therefore enjoy exploring and applying mathematical concepts to understand and solve problems, explaining their thinking and presenting their solutions to others in a variety of ways. 

 

We aim to: 

 

  • encourage students to reason logically and creatively through discussion of mathematical ideas and concepts. 

  • develop a positive attitude towards mathematics as an interesting and exciting subject in which all students gain success and enjoyment 

  • use effective questioning and discussion to show students that misconceptions and wrong answers are an opportunity to improve and deepen understanding 

  • develop mathematical understanding 

  • encourage the effective use of mathematics as a tool in a wide range of activities within and out with school and, subsequently, adult life 

  • develop an ability in students to express themselves fluently, to talk about the subject with confidence, using correct mathematical language and vocabulary 

  • develop and make connections within mathematics 

  • develop the ability to think clearly and logically with independence of thought and flexibility of mind 

  • develop mathematical skills and knowledge and a quick recall of basic facts 

 

Key Stage 4 Maths (GCSE) 

 

Although our current scheme of work builds from year 7 through to year 11, When students get to year 10 there is more focus on the more challenging aspects of the curriculum to prepare students for their GCSE exams which are taken at the end of year 11, during May and June. 

 

The GCSE qualification has 3 papers, each paper 90 minutes long: 

Paper 1 – Non-calculator – 80 marks 

Paper 2 – Calculator – 80 marks 

Paper 3 – Calculator – 80 marks 

 

We follow the Edexcel Mathematics course where students will sit either the higher tier or the foundation tier exam. 

 

Edexcel Maths Specification 

 

Key Stage 5 Maths 

At Key Stage 5 Maths we offer 3 qualifications. A-Level Maths, Further Maths and Core Maths. 

 

A-Level Maths: 

Grade requirements: GCSE 6 in maths or higher 

Exam board: OCR MEI  

Code: H640 

 

The OCR MEI H640 A-Level Mathematics is designed to deepen students' understanding of mathematics and its applications. It typically spans two years and includes three main components: 

 

  1. Pure Mathematics 

Focuses on: 

  1. Algebra and Functions 

  1. Coordinate Geometry 

  1. Sequences and Series 

  1. Trigonometry 

  1. Calculus (Differentiation and Integration) 

  1. Vectors 

  1. Proof techniques 

 

  1. Applied Mathematics 

  1. Mechanics 

Covers topics like forces, motion, kinematics, and Newton's laws of motion. 

  1. Statistics 

Includes probability, statistical sampling, data presentation, and hypothesis testing. 

 

  1. Modelling and Problem-Solving 

Real-world applications and mathematical reasoning are emphasized to develop analytical and critical thinking. 

 

Assessment is at the end of year 13 and consists of 3 papers 

Paper 1: Pure Maths and Mechanics - 100 Marks – 2 hours 

Paper 2: Pure Maths and Statistics – 100 Marks – 2 hours 

Paper 3: Pure Maths and Comprehension – 75 Marks – 2 hours 

 

Further Maths: 

Grade requirements: A-Level Maths and GCSE 7 in maths or higher 

Exam board: OCR MEI 

Code: H645 

 

The course covers advanced areas of mathematics, split into Core Pure Mathematics and a range of Optional Modules. It allows students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. 

  1. Core Pure Mathematics 

  1. Complex Numbers 

  1. Matrices 

  1. Further Calculus 

  1. Vectors in 3D 

  1. Differential Equations 

  1. Proof by Induction 

  1. Series and Further Algebra 

 

  1. Applied Modules 

Students can choose from a range of applied and theoretical options, such as: 

  1. Statistics: Advanced probability, distributions, and statistical methods. 

  1. Modelling with Algorithms: Algorithmic problem-solving and graph theory. 

  1. Numerical Methods: Approximation techniques and numerical problem-solving. 

 

Assessment is at the end of year 13 and consists of 4 papers 

Paper 1: Pure Maths – 144 Marks – 2 hours 40 minutes – 50% of total qualification 

Paper 2: Statistics – 60 marks – 1 hour 15 minutes 

Paper 3: Modelling with algorithms – 60 marks – 1 hour 15 minutes 

Paper 4: Numerical methods – 60 marks – 1 hour 15 minutes 

 

Core Maths: 

Grade requirements: GCSE 4 in maths or higher 

Exam board: OCR MEI 

Code: H867 

 

The OCR MEI Core Maths course is a post-16 qualification designed for students who want to continue studying mathematics beyond GCSE but are not pursuing A-Level Mathematics. It emphasizes practical applications of math in real-world contexts, making it ideal for students who need mathematical skills to support other subjects like psychology, biology, geography, or economics. 

 

The OCR MEI Core Maths course covers four main areas: 

  1. Data Analysis - Interpreting and analyzing data, calculating averages, understanding distributions, and evaluating the reliability of data. 

  2. Financial Mathematics - Covers percentages, interest rates, loans, taxation, and budgeting to help students manage personal and business finances. 

  3. Modeling and Estimation - Using math to model real-world problems and make reasonable estimates to solve practical issues. 

  4. Probability and Risk - Evaluating probabilities and assessing risk in various contexts, such as insurance, investments, and everyday decision-making. 

 

Assessment is at the end of year 13 and consists of 2 papers. 

Paper 1: Introduction to quantitative reasoning - 72 marks – 2 hours – 50% 

Paper 2: Statistical Reasoning – 60 marks – 50%