The aim of the National 5 Maths course is to provide pupils with the skills required to solve mathematical and real-life problems using different techniques and language.  This course requires and enables pupils to think abstractly in order to explore mathematical ideas.  Pupils will gain skills in analysing, managing and communication information in mathematical form.  

The National 5 Mathematics course does require a good understanding of algebra - this is the main different to the National 5 Applications of Mathematics course. The Venn Diagram below shows the main differences and similarities. 

Assessment for this course consists of two external exams during the SQA exam diet.

• Question paper 1 (non-calculator) worth 40 marks and lasting 1 hour.

• Question paper 2 (calculator) worth 50 marks and lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Students will complete the following topics with in class assessments, prelim exams and revision time all built into the year. Most topics build on prior learning in S1 to S3 and therefore pace and level for each class depend on prior understanding. 

• Straight Line Graphs

• Algebra

  • Equations and Inequation

  • Rearranging formulae 

  • Simultaneous Equations

• Scientific and Function Notation

In Class Assessment

• Quadratics

• Surds and Indices

• Statistics

Prelim Exam

• Fractions and Algebraic Fractions

• Vectors

• Percentages

• Similarity

• Arcs and Sectors

In Class Assessment

• Volume

• Triangle Trigonometry and Graphs

• Trigonometry Equations and Identities