Mathematics
The intent of the Mathematics Curriculum
The Mathematics Department prides itself in being at the forefront of developing new ways of teaching, in particular using different resources in lessons. Students are introduced to wide range of activities to enable them to develop a good understanding of the subject. The intent of the Maths Curriculum is to:
- Present an environment where all students can learn Maths to the best of their ability and where all students' needs are addressed positively and sensitively.
- Offer a variety of approaches to teaching and learning to engage and motivate students, encouraging their active participation in Maths.
- Provide students with techniques so that they can investigate and solve problems in school Maths and other curricular areas.
- Develop and extend a student's ability to express themselves clearly; to reason logically and to be able to generalise.
- Build a student's confidence in their own ability and develop mathematical skills for their usefulness and applicability in the real world.
- Develop mathematical knowledge and oral, written and practical skill that encourages confidence and enjoyment.
- Set realistic yet challenging targets, with high expectations for all students.
How is the Mathematics Curriculum implemented?
In Years 7 and 8, classes are organised in thirds (3 or 4 form groups at a time) and in Year 9 half the year group are in Maths at a given time, so that students with similar abilities and target grades will be working together. During lesson time there will be opportunities for students to work independently, in pairs and small groups. Students are introduced to a wide range of activities to enable them to develop a good understanding of the subject and will consolidate the work from primary school.
Through the Mathematics contact, students will be taught to:-
- Develop fluency
- Reason mathematically
- Solve problems
The Mathematics content is split into 6 main areas:-
- Number
- Algebra
- Ratio, proportion and rates of change
- Geometry and measures
- Probability
- Statistics
Lessons will be focused upon a topic to ensure they have mastered the key skills required. Also, various opportunities will arise to apply the key skills to problem-solving questions. Throughout the 3 years, topics will be revisited and revised to ensure students consolidate their knowledge.
Curriculum Road Map - Maths
Curriculum Sequencing Plan - Maths
The impact of the Mathematics Curriculum at the end of Key Stage 3
There will be formal Mathematics assessments each term, allowing students to have greater understanding of the way their examinations will be marked, and the variation of questions asked. This will also provide students with additional feedback from their teacher as RAG sheets are completed which clearly shows topic areas they are secure in and ones which they could progress further in.
The Key Stage 3 Mathematics curriculum ensures that students are prepared for the content and skills required in Year 10 and 11. The curriculum also aims to provide students with the ability to logically solve problems, preparing them for the world of work and everyday life.
How is it assessed?
In all years students are placed in sets. Every term students complete a formal assessment, which is levelled to show the progress of students, in line with the rest of key stage 3 we will be using the 5Es grading model.
In Year 7 and 8, students are given homework booklets for the first term that include activities, challenge cards and games to play with your child. After Christmas students complete projects based on different aspects of mathematics. For the final term students will use an online platform to complete homework.
In Year 9 students have 3 half terms of booklets including problem solving and GCSE questions and the 3 half terms of online homework.
How can I help my child?
Parental support and help is very important with homework in all years, and any extra practice for example mental arithmetic problems or multiplication tables help support the work we do in lessons. You can also point out the maths in everyday life. Include your child in activities involving numbers and measuring, such as shopping, cooking and travelling.