Mathematics
KS3 Mathematics
KS3 Mathematics at Archway consists of two main components:
- National Curriculum
- Bespoke, targeted intervention based around areas of development highlighted by testing on entry.
The purpose of KS3 Mathematics is to provide a high- quality education in this vital subject and instil a sense of confidence in pupils that will enable them to progress to the next stage of their learning.
Further, the following outcomes are strived towards:
- Fluency in the fundamentals of mathematics through frequent practice.
- The ability to reason mathematically, following a line of enquiry and providing proof.
- The ability to solve problems by applying mathematical knowledge with increasing sophistication.
Topics that are covered are:
- Numbers
- Algebra
- Ratio, proportion and rates of change
- Geometry and measures
- Probability
- Statistics
At Archway, KS3 consists of years 7 & 8. This is to enable pupils to remain in line with their peers in mainstream settings and ultimately assist them to transfer back in a more seamless fashion. This also reflects the 3 year GCSE program which has been adopted by the schools in Redcar & Cleveland.
For further information: Mathematics
KS4 Mathematics
At Archway, we follow a 3 year GCSE in Mathematics using the EdExcel exam board. Pupils are assessed once per half term and follow the foundation tier scheme of work (Grades 1-5). This is carefully monitored and, if appropriate, a pupil could be moved onto the higher tier scheme of work (Grades 4-9).
As part of the assessment process, pupils in need of intervention are identified and assigned a short term intervention program as required.
The aims of the GCSE in Mathematics are to enable students to:
- develop fluent knowledge, skills and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts
- acquire, select and apply mathematical techniques to solve problems
- reason mathematically, make deductions and inferences, and draw conclusions
- comprehend, interpret and communicate mathematical information in a variety of forms appropriate to the information and context.
The assessments for Mathematics will now cover the following content headings:
- Number
- Algebra
- Ratio, proportion and rates of change
- Geometry and measures
- Probability
- Statistics
Each student is permitted to take assessments in either the Foundation tier or Higher tier with three 1hr30min equally-weighted written examination papers (1 non-calculator and 2 calculator), which will be taken at the end of year 11.
The qualification will be graded and certificated on a nine-grade scale from 9 to 1 using the total mark across all three papers where 9 is the highest grade.
Foundation tier: grades 1 to 5.
Higher tier: grades 4 to 9 (grade 3 allowed).
For more information: gcse-maths-2015-specification