Mathematics

Staff:

Mr Callaghan (PT, Wed-Fri)

Mr Selby (Acting PT, Mon-Tue)

Miss Bland

Mrs Connolly

Mr Davidson

Mr Geddes

Miss Hankins

Mrs Milne

Mr Qayyum

Mrs Russell

Miss Robertson

Mrs Thomson

Course Information:

Broad General Education – S1 to S3

During S1–S3, all pupils follow the Broad General Education (BGE) pathway.

Learners develop a broad range of mathematical skills and knowledge, building the foundations required for progression into the Senior Phase.

As pupils progress through the BGE, their understanding and confidence develop, helping them make informed choices about the most appropriate course for their individual needs and aspirations.

Senior Phase

In the Senior Phase, pupils can follow either a Mathematics pathway or an Applications of Mathematics pathway, depending on their level of attainment, strengths and future plans.

Mathematics Pathway

National 5 Mathematics

National 5 Mathematics builds on the knowledge and skills developed during the BGE.

Learners develop and apply skills in:

• Algebra

• Geometry

• Trigonometry

• Statistics

• Numerical skills

• Problem solving and mathematical reasoning

Pupils are encouraged to select and apply appropriate mathematical techniques and develop their ability to make informed decisions based on available information.

Assessment:
To achieve the National 5 Mathematics award, learners complete an externally assessed examination consisting of a non-calculator paper and a calculator paper. The examination is externally marked and graded. Pupils also complete regular internal assessments throughout the course to monitor progress and support learning.

Higher Mathematics

Higher Mathematics builds on the skills and knowledge developed at National 5.

The course requires learners to have a strong understanding of key mathematical concepts and to apply these in increasingly complex situations.

Important areas of study include:

• Straight-line mathematics

• Multiplying brackets

• Factorising

• Completing the square

• Surds and indices

• Quadratic equations

• Trigonometric graphs and equations

A very good understanding of National 5 Mathematics is required to provide a strong foundation for success at Higher.

Advanced Higher Mathematics

Advanced Higher Mathematics builds on the algebraic, trigonometric and calculus skills developed at Higher.

Learners will study and apply concepts including:

• Differentiation

• Integration

• Trigonometric identities

• Sets and functions

• Logarithms

• Exponentials

The course is designed for learners who have demonstrated a very strong understanding of Higher Mathematics and who are ready to study mathematics at a more advanced level.

Applications of Mathematics Pathway

Applications of Mathematics courses focus particularly on applying mathematical skills to real-life situations, everyday life and the world of work.

National 4 Applications of Mathematics

National 4 Applications of Mathematics builds on learners' experiences in the BGE, with a particular focus on applying numeracy and mathematical skills to practical, real-world situations.

The course supports learners in developing mathematical skills that can be used confidently in everyday life and future employment.

National 5 Applications of Mathematics

National 5 Applications of Mathematics develops learners' ability to use mathematics in realistic contexts.

Topics include:

• Fractions, decimals and percentages

• Area, perimeter and volume

• Scale and units of measurement

• Income and budgeting

• Statistical data

• Comparing and interpreting information

Learners work with mathematical ideas in a variety of real-life contexts, helping them understand how mathematics is used in everyday life, further education and the workplace.

Assessment:
To achieve the award, learners complete an externally assessed examination consisting of a non-calculator paper and a calculator paper. The examination is externally marked and graded. Learners also complete regular assessments throughout the course.

Higher Applications of Mathematics

Higher Applications of Mathematics provides learners with opportunities to apply mathematical and statistical skills to practical contexts.

Unlike the other Mathematics qualifications offered by the department, three of the four units require learners to use software alongside handwritten mathematical work.

Learners will develop their ability to:

• Apply mathematical skills to real-life problems

• Interpret and analyse data

• Use technology to support mathematical investigations

• Present and communicate mathematical findings

• Use Excel and statistical software appropriately

Assessment:
Learners complete an externally assessed project as well as an examination. The examination is a calculator paper completed with access to Excel and statistical software on a computer.

Choosing the Right Course

Choosing a Mathematics course is about finding the pathway that best matches each learner's current attainment, strengths, confidence and future aspirations.

The Mathematics Department will provide guidance to pupils and parents during the course-choice process. Previous attainment, classroom performance and assessment evidence will all help inform recommendations.

It is important that learners choose a course where they can build confidence, make progress and develop skills that will be useful for their future education, training and employment.

If you have questions about the most appropriate Mathematics pathway for your child, please speak to a member of the Mathematics Department.

Homework:

All Maths homework is available on Google Classroom.

Homework is issued as follows to all Maths classes:

·   Continuation homework allows pupils to finish off work not completed in class and is self-marked.

·   Formal homework is issued regularly and is handed in to the teacher be marked.

Extra-Curricular:

S1 – S6 Supported Study: every Wednesday after school (3.05 – 4.05 pm) in the Maths department.

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