Mathematics

The Maths department aims to promote the love of mathematics, where mathematicians develop conceptual understanding and fluency of the fundamentals of mathematics through practice, recall, and application.

This allows students to explore connections, thus igniting their intellectual curiosity and prepares them for everyday life and future employment.

OVERVIEW OF COURSE

Students at Key Stage 3 follow a programme of study that incorporates Number, Ratio & Proportion, Algebra, Geometry and Measures and Statistics. This is designed to provide students the opportunity to become mathematically fluent in the core skills studied at KS2. These skills are then built upon and extended to develop their reasoning skills by applying these concepts to new and challenging contexts. Mastery skills will be delivered throughout the years to help aid progress. Consolidation of key topics will also be delivered. An outline is shown below.

PROGRAMME OF STUDY

SKILLS / KNOWLEDGE / UNDERSTANDING


Students will be expected to develop the following knowledge, skills and understanding:

Constant practise of topics such as Number, Algebra, Ratio, Proportion, Rates of Change, Geometry and Statistics will need to be recapped and consolidated.

Skills and understanding from KS2 is paramount in the building blocks for Year 7, 8 and 9 and will place students in the advantageous position to achieve beyond their target.

METHODS OF ASSESSMENT


We will use a range of assessments:

Formal tests – PIP assessments as set out per school calendar

End of topic tests after each topic.

We will also use a range of different styles of feedback to students:

Marking in which the teacher provides formative comments for future improvement which the student is expected to act upon.

Feedforward questions to consolidate and build upon targeted skills identified as the student’s area of weakness

Non-written feedback which can take the form of verbal, peer, and self-assessment.

HOW PARENTS / CARERS CAN HELP


It is requested that parents play a role in their child’s home learning. The list outlined suggests a few quick and easy methods, where parents/carers can help and support.

Monitoring of books in terms of their content, presentation and organisational skills

Oversee at least 20 mins of their homework sitting by their side.

The use of MathsWatch as the MAIN resource for their independent home learning.


EXTRA-CURRICULAR


Year 7 UK Junior Maths Challenge

Year 8 UK Junior Maths Challenge + Set 1 to carry out the Edexcel Level 2 Algebra exam

Year 9 UK Intermediate Maths Challenge + Set 1 to carry out the Edexcel Level 2 Algebra exam