Overview & Aims
Each form has 5 lessons per week, each of 45/40 minutes length. All examination forms are set on attainment level whilst the approach to I Form & TY is a little more common level. The top three sets at Senior Cycle and top two sets at Junior Cycle will prepare to undertake exams at the higher-level. Different styles of books and resources are used for the different attainment levels.
In 2016 we entered 62% of our pupils for Higher Level Leaving Certificate, 34% more than the national average. Of those sitting higher level, 32% got an H1 grade, compared with 11% nationally. For Junior Certificate Higher level we entered 86%, with 31% achieving an A grade, compared to 12% nationally. We are extremely proud of our outstanding results record, and continue to find ways to improve further.
The department aims to develop:
• each pupil’s full potential
• a positive attitude to Mathematics as an interesting and useful and, therefore, relevent subject
• an appreciation for the creative aspects of Mathematics and its aesthetic appeal
• an ability to think logically and clearly in Mathematics with confidence and flexibility
• an appreciation of pattern and relationships in Mathematics
• Mathematical and problem-solving skills and knowledge and the ability to recall essential facts quickly
• an awareness of the uses of Mathematics beyond the classroom, in business, the sciences and other disciplines
• persistence and perseverance through sustained work
• an ability to work on one’s own and to develop the skills necessary for Mathematics at Leaving certificate and University
• the confidence and ability to communicate Mathematically both in word and writing
• an ability to use ICT to support Mathematics learning when appropriate
• the ability to work as a member of a group and develop key skills
• more open-ended questioning and investigation
• an interest in the history and context of Mathematics discovery
Numeracy
St. Columba's College is committed to achieving and maintaining high standards of Numeracy in all its pupils, recognising Numeracy as both a key component across all academic subjects and an essential lifetime skill necessary in coping confidently with the future demands of further education, employment and adult life.
Applied Mathematics
St. Columba's College also offers pupils the opportunity to study Applied Mathemtics at Leaving Certificate level. This is offered as a timetabled subject to those who choose it.