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What will I study in Mathematics?
The content of each GCSE Mathematics unit relates to: number and algebra; geometry and measures; and statistics and probability. The units all provide opportunities for students to develop and apply their mathematical skills to real life contexts.
How will I be assessed in this subject?
Students choose one option from the two available at either Foundation or Higher Tier. They must take two units, one of which must be a completion test. Each unit can be repeated once.
What Will I study?
Foundation Tier
Foundation Tier
Unit M1: Foundation Tier
1 hr 45 mins
45% of GCSE
All Calculator
Unit M5: Foundation Tier Completion Test
2 hrs
55% of GCSE
2 papers – 1hr each
50% Calculator and 50% Non-Calculator
Unit M2: Foundation Tier
1 hr 45 mins
45% of GCSE
All Calculator
Unit M6: Foundation Tier Completion Test
2 hrs
55% of GCSE
2 Papers – 1hr each
50% Calculator and 50% Non-Calculator
Higher Tier
Higher Tier
Unit M3: Higher Tier
2 hrs
45% of GCSE
All Calculator
Unit M7: Higher Tier Completion Test
2hrs 30mins
55% of GCSE
2 papers - 1hr 15mins each
50% Calculator and 50% Non-Calculator
Unit M4: Higher Tier
2 hrs
45% of GCSE
All Calculator
Unit M8: Higher Tier Completion Test
2hrs 30mins
55% of GCSE
2 Papers - 1hr 15mins each
50% Calculator and 50% No-Calculator
What career paths are available to me if I study this subject?
Just about everything! People with mathematics degrees and other qualifications can go into: accounting, medicine, engineering, forensic pathology, finance, business, consultancy, teaching, IT, games development, scientific research, programming, the civil service, design, construction, astrophysics and many other careers.
Extra Curricular Activities
In GCSE Maths, you may have the opportunity to take part in the following activities;
Intermediate UK Maths Challenge
Maths Week
Over and Above Certificates
Opportunities to complete full GCSE by Year 11
Student Testimonials
Although it was mandatory to do Maths at GCSE, I decided to really put the effort in to get a good grade, as it let me gain a proper foothold to do a variety of different STEM subjects at AS and A-level. A lot of the techniques I learned were usable in everyday life, especially if you need to make precise measurements. Maths really helps with problem-solving and perseverance as well, although it’s important to realise that getting things wrong is okay if you learn from it. After completing my GCSE, I decided to take Maths for AS and A-level because I found Maths to be quite fun to me, as I found it to be enjoyable to do all sorts of challenging questions. It feels really rewarding when you get the tougher questions right. The teachers in the school are also a great help because they explain the content of the course really well and give you a hand when you need it.
Ethan, Year 14
I have taken on maths examinations since third year right through to upper sixth and although this has been quite challenging I find that this is one of the most rewarding subjects. Maths creates so many opportunities for young people as it is an attribute that is appreciated by employers all over the world. I decided to take on maths at both GCSE and A-Level because I found great comfort in knowing that there is a set way in doing things and everything has a clear answer. I also took on Further Maths as a change and found that it was extremely interesting as it thoroughly contributes to the world we live in, covering three major areas- Pure, Mechanics and Statistics. One main advantage that I found in the subject is the small class size as you receive more one to one tuition. I understand that many find the subject daunting but the Teachers are extremely hands on and this is an opportunity for students to open doors creating wider possibilities for their future.
Ellie, Year 14
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