Maths
Why study Maths?
Mathematics is the language of the universe and so helps pupils to understand the amazing and complex world around them. Beyond the study of numbers, shapes, and patterns, it also provides important tools for work in fields such as engineering, physics, architecture, medicine, and business. It nurtures the development of a logical and methodical mindset and helps instil focus and the ability to solve all manner of problems. Attainment in the subject is the key to opening new doors to further study and employment. A Mathematics GCSE is also an essential qualification to pursue further studies in many fields.
How will I study Maths?
In this course, pupils will study topics such as number work, algebra, shapes, ratio, and data-handling in depth as well as investigate mathematically advanced concepts such as trigonometry, circle theorems, vectors, and proof. Pupils will be taught declarative knowledge components for each strand, practice the classical mathematical procedures, and have opportunities to extend this to conditional knowledge and lots of ‘what if’ and varying situations. Pupils will have the opportunity to continually develop communication and reasoning skills and learn problem solving strategies.
What will I study at Key Stage 3?
Our Key Stage 3 curriculum begins in Year 7 by focusing on finding and filling any gaps from Key Stage 2 and establishing a strong grasp of the number line, fractions, and decimals. Introductions to Key Stage 3 algebra and shape are gradual, with the aim of building confidence gradually and sequentially.
We continue in Year 8 by building on the algebra and shape introduced in Year 7. Graphs, sequences, and probability are also explored at higher levels and connections between different branches start to be made. Students are given time to build on declarative knowledge across the many areas of mathematics.
Our Key Stage 3 continues into Year 9 and focuses on developing strong procedural knowledge on the parts of the curriculum covered so far. Confidence and accuracy in calculation and manipulation are emphasised as well as articulating reasons and linking different methods and ideas. Advanced ideas around ratio and proportion, inequalities and data handling are explored. Reinforcing and using mathematical concepts and notation help build a strong foundation for the higher-level maths to come.
What will I study at Key Stage 4?
Our Key Stage 4 focuses on investigating some of the most advanced parts of the curriculum. Higher level trigonometry, surds, quadratic equations, and data handling techniques are studied, and intentional time is given to explore concepts in detail. Students begin to articulate ideas mathematically and make links to previous learning clearly.
Toward the end of Key stage 4, there is an explicit focus on making and building connections between the different branches of mathematics to help solve high level problems. All topics covered are multi-layered and draw on a strong understanding of many areas of the curriculum. Students are required to communicate mathematically using established notation and ideas as they will in any further study of the subject. Students’ understanding and knowledge is deepened and there is also a clear focus on the use of the subject in the real world. We also offer the option to study for an additional GCSE in Statistics. This gives students the skills to collect, analyse, interpret and present data.
What will I study at Key Stage 5?
At Key Stage 5, pupils are offered the opportunity to study for an AS Level or A Level in mathematics, or the option to study for a Core Maths qualification.
AS and A level mathematics consist of the study of pure maths topics such geometry, trigonometry, calculus and applied maths particularly in statistics and mechanics. Students will be able to develop a deep and broad understanding of high-level mathematical concepts and classical methods.
The Core Maths course has been designed to maintain and develop real-life maths skills. What pupils study is not purely theoretical or abstract; it can be applied on a day-to-day basis in work, study or life and will include a financial maths element. It will also help with other A Level subjects such Sciences and Social Sciences.
Assessment at Key Stage 4
Edexcel GCSE MATHS PAPER 1: 1MA1/1F or 1MA1/1H Non-Calculator
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Edexcel GCSE MATHS PAPER 2: 1MA1/2F or 1MA1/2H Calculator
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Edexcel GCSE MATHS PAPER 3: 1MA1/3F or 1MA1/3H Calculator
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OPTION Edexcel GCSE STATISTICS PAPER 1: 1ST0/1H Calculator
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OPTION Edexcel GCSE STATISTICS PAPER 1: 1ST0/2H Calculator
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Assessment at Key Stage 5
AQA AS Mathematics 7356 – PAPER 1
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AQA AS Mathematics 7356 – PAPER 2
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AQA A Level Mathematics 7357 – PAPER 1
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AQA A Level Mathematics 7357 – PAPER 2
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AQA A Level Mathematics 7357 – PAPER 3
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OPTION OCR Level 3 Certificate Core Maths B (MEI) H869/01 Introduction to Quantitative Reasoning Calculator
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OPTION OCR Level 3 Certificate Core Maths B (MEI) H869/02 Statistical Problem Solving Calculator
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Enrichment
Pupils have lots of opportunities for enrichment in both mathematics and mathematic related skills. The department offers a ‘Maths and Computer’ games club where students can develop their logical and strategic thinking skills, as well as a weekly puzzle board and challenges throughout the year to encourage participation in mathematical problem solving and thinking skills.
The department also offers trips for every year of KS3, including outdoor trips arranged with the PE and humanities departments. There is also a very enjoyable Manchester Airport visit where students study the maths in the airline industry. We offer trips to universities and further maths enrichment events across the Northwest. There is also lots of enrichment in lessons, such as lessons on origami, the maths in the Quran, maths and inheritance and also the maths associated with charitable giving in Islam. Students are also encouraged to take part in the UK Mathematics Trust competitions and challenges. Over a quarter of our students enter these challenges annually.
Careers
A good GCSE grade in Mathematics will allow you to choose A Levels and a degree in a variety of fields including Mathematics, Statistics, and Physics. These include careers in accountancy, engineering, economics, teaching, and computing.
Most colleges will require at least a grade ‘5’ in GCSE Maths to be able to apply for A levels, and at least a grade ‘6’ or ‘7’ to be able to apply for A levels in Science and Mathematics.