S3 Mathematics and Numeracy

Mathematics is important in everyday life, allowing us to make sense of the world around us and to manage our lives. Using mathematics enables us to model real-life situations and make connections and informed predictions. It equips us with the skills we need to interpret and analyse information, simplify and solve problems, assess risk, and make informed decisions.

AIMS OF THE COURSE

The courses are designed to develop the learner’s skills in using mathematical language, to explore mathematical ideas, and to develop skills relevant to learning, life and work in an engaging and enjoyable way. It will build on prior learning and develop:

Operational skills in algebra, geometry, trigonometry and statistics

Reasoning skills of investigation, problem solving, analysis and modelling

Numeracy skills in number processes and information handling

COURSE CONTENT

Course outlines are included in the Class Notebooks which pupils can access via their Maths Team on Glow.

The course builds on Mathematics and Numeracy skills, preparing students to embark on National courses.

Mathematical skills include simplification of expressions and evaluation of formulae; application of trigonometry; solving equations making reasoned deductions and predictions.

Numerical skills include selecting correct strategies; applying number processes; solving personal finance problems; analysing statistics and graphs to solve problems and make informed decisions.

LEARNING AND TEACHING

Pupils develop these skills at different rates and will thus be divided into classes according to their ability and learning needs. A variety of approaches will be used including direct teaching and investigation.  Pupils will have the opportunity to work individually as well as in pairs or groups.  The main resource will be textbooks; pupils will also use worksheets and ICT resources.

ASSESSMENT PATTERN

Formal assessments will take place roughly once each term.  These tests will assess breadth, depth and challenge as well as core skills.  Pupils’ classwork and homework will be used to assess and review progress.

HOMEWORK REQUIREMENTS

Homework will take a variety of forms.  Pupils may be asked to finish off an exercise that they were working on in class in order to get sufficient practice.  Homework might be set at the start of a piece of work to help the teacher establish the best starting point for a class.  Pupils might be set revision or asked to research a topic.