Maths and Numeracy

National 4 Maths is suitable for pupils who have attained CfE third Level Maths. Passing National 4 Maths will increase your career opportunities by helping you gain a place on a college course, apprenticeship or for getting a job. It will also develop the numerical and algebraic skills required for National 5 Maths or National 5 Applications of Maths courses. There are 3 compulsory units which must be passed throughout the year; Expressions and Formulae, Relationships and Numeracy. There is also an end of course Added Value Unit. All assessments are internally assessed. 

Progression

Successful candidates at National 4 Maths may progress to National 5 Maths or National 5 Applications of Maths. 

National 5 Maths is suitable for pupils who have successfully achieved CfE fourth Level Maths or who have performed well in National 4 Maths. The course develops important mathematical techniques which are critical to successful progression beyond National 5 in Mathematics and many other curriculum areas. Pupils will develop their skills in the areas of Numeracy, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry and Statistics. The skills, knowledge and understanding in the course also support learning in technology, health and wellbeing, science, and social studies. National 5 Maths is assessed by means of an exam. There are two papers, one of which is sat without the aid of a calculator. Achievement of this course gives automatic certification of the following Core Skill: Numeracy at SCQF level 5.

Progression

Candidates who perform well at National 5 Mathematics (grade A or B) may progress to Higher Mathematics.

This course is recommended for learners who have achieved a grade A or B in National 5 Mathematics or wish to repeat the Higher course from last session. The Higher Mathematics course develops, deepens and extends the mathematical skills necessary at this level and beyond. Higher Maths is fast paced and covers a range of Mathematical areas including; Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry and Calculus. Pupils select and apply mathematical techniques and develop their understanding of the interdependencies within mathematics. Candidates who complete a Higher Mathematics course successfully are expected to have a competence and confidence in applying numerical skills, algebraic techniques and should possess clear communication skills alongside mathematical rigour. Higher Maths is externally assessed. There are two papers, one of which is sat without the aid of a calculator.

Progression

Candidates who perform well at Higher Mathematics (grade A or B) may progress to Advanced Higher Mathematics, with the added option of Advanced Higher Applied Mathematics: Mechanics.

This course is recommended for learners who have achieved a grade A or B in Higher Mathematics. The course comprises 3 units: Methods in Algebra and Calculus, Applications of Algebra and Calculus and Geometry, Proof and Systems of Equations. The Advanced Higher Mathematics course develops, deepens and extends the mathematical skills necessary at this level and beyond. Throughout this course, candidates acquire and apply operational skills necessary for exploring complex mathematical ideas. They select and apply mathematical techniques and develop their understanding of the interdependencies within mathematics. Candidates develop mathematical reasoning skills and gain experience in making informed decisions. Pupils are expected to show full commitment to the course due to the amount of home study required. 

This course must be studied alongside Advanced Higher Maths as there is a common unit to both. It is recommended for learners who have achieved a grade A or B in Higher Mathematics and Higher Physics. The course comprises 3 units: Linear & Parabolic Motion; Force, Energy & Periodic Motion and Mathematical Techniques for Mechanics.

Advanced Higher Applied Mathematics (Mechanics) offers learners the opportunity to study mechanics in a way that recognises problem solving as an essential skill. The focus within the course is placed firmly on applications of mathematics to real-life contexts and the formulation and interpretation of mathematical models.

The course offers depth of applied mathematical experience and, thereby, achieves relevance to further study or employment in the areas of mathematical and physical sciences and engineering. Mechanics can be taken as a fourth Advanced Higher, if a pupil is also studying Maths and Physics at Advanced Higher.