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St Alban's Catholic High School

St Alban's
Catholic High School

Mathematics

Subject Vision

To inspire a love for the beauty, patterns, and wonder of mathematics whilst fostering an environment where students find enjoyment and are curious in their learning. We aim to prepare students to solve real world problems by developing their mathematical literacy and independent learning skills, with creativity and fluency.

What resources are available?

A variety of materials are available in lessons and online. Each student has access to the Sparx Maths, a website which has a large database of topic resources, videos and worksheets. Homework in Years 7 to 10 will usually be set on Sparx.

 

Key Stage 3 Curriculum Overview

 

Year 7

Year 8

Year 9

Aut.1

Sequences,

Algebra

Equality and Equivalence

Ratio and Scale,

Multiplicative Change and Proportion, Multiplying and Dividing Fractions

Straight Line Graphs, Solving Equations and Inequalities,

Testing Conjectures and Proof

Aut.2

Place value, Negatives and Decimals,

Fractions and Percentages

Straight Line Graphs,

Proportionality Graphs, Representing Data,

Probability

3D Shapes,

Surface Area and Volume

Constructions,

Congruency

Spr.1

Calculation methods,

Area and Perimeter,

Decimals,

Factors and Multiples,

Order of Operations

Algebra with brackets, equations and inequalities,

Sequences

Indices

Rational and Irrational Numbers,

Surds,

Financial Maths

Spr.2

Solving Equations,

Adding and Subtracting Fractions

Fractions and Percentages,

Standard Index Form,

Number Sense

Deduction and Conjectures,

Rotation and Translation,

Pythagoras’ Theorem

Sum.1

Constructions, Measures, Geometric Reasoning

Angles in Parallel Lines and Polygons,

Area of Trapezia and circles

Symmetry and Reflection

Enlargement and Similarity,

Ratio and Proportion

Sum.2

Number Sense, Sets and Probability,

Prime Numbers and Proof

The Data Handling Cycle,

Measures of Location (Averages)

Rates,

Density and Speed,

Probability,

Algebraic Representation,

Units


Where does this subject lead me?

KS4 Maths

All students study Maths at GCSE.  It is taught in 6 different attainment sets with students able to move between groups depending on progress.  Regular assessments allow students to demonstrate their learning at different points in the academic year.

Sixth Forms, colleges and employers usually require either a grade 4 or 5 or above in Mathematics. We guide pupils towards the route that is most likely to deliver this outcome.

The skills taught in Maths are applied in a wide range of our GCSE subjects.

 

Key Stage 4 Curriculum Overview
 

 

Year 10

Year 11

Aut.1

Congruence, similarity & enlargement, Trigonometry

Gradients & lines, Non-linear graphs, Using graphs

Aut.2

Representing solutions of equations & inequalities, Simultaneous equations

Expanding & factorising, Changing the subjects, Functions

Spr.1

Angles & Bearings, Working with Circles, Vectors

Multiplicative reasoning, Geometric reasoning, Algebraic reasoning

Spr.2

Ratios & fractions, Percentages & interest, Probability

Transforming & constructing, Listing & describing, Show that…

Sum.1

Collecting, representing and interpreting data, non-calculator methods

Revision & Exams

Sum.2

Types of number & sequences, Indices & roots, Manipulating expressions

 

 

How is it assessed?

Students follow either the linear Higher or linear Foundation Edexcel syllabuses. Students sit three exam papers, one non-calculator and two calculator papers, all of which are taken at the end of Year 11. Each paper is marked out of 80. Each paper is 1 hour and 30 minutes long.

There is no coursework in Mathematics.

We also offer a Further Maths GCSE (AQA) for some of the highest attaining students in the year group. This is an additional GCSE which can be completed alongside the regular GCSE and is a brilliant intermediary step for those hoping to study A Level Mathematics. This qualification is taught in Year 11, through a series of after-school sessions.

 

What can it lead to?

Many students go on to study Mathematics at A Level and beyond at university. Mathematics is a highly respected qualification that demonstrates the ability to think logically and solve problems.

Sixth Forms, colleges and employers require either a grade 4 or 5 or above in Mathematics. We guide pupils towards the route that is most likely to deliver this outcome.

For info, please see our Key Stage 5 section below, which contains information on:

  • Level 3 Core Mathematics
  • A Level Mathematics
  • Further Mathematics

 

Key Stage 5 Curriculum Overview

A Level Mathematics (Edexcel)

  • Did you enjoy the challenge of Algebra and Trigonometry in GCSE Maths and want to extend and develop your knowledge of mathematical concepts and techniques?
  • Do you want to study a well-respected A level with numerous desirable and transferable skills?
  • Do you want a solid base from which to support your study of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) subjects?

Entry requirement – Grade 6 GCSE Maths

A Level Further Mathematics (Edexcel)

  • Are you already studying A level Mathematics and want a 4th challenging A level?
  • Are you able to understand difficult maths concepts quickly?
  • Do you plan to study Mathematics at University or like the idea of studying a STEM based degree at a top University?

Entry requirement – Grade 7 GCSE Maths

Core Maths (Level 3 Mathematical Studies – AQA)

  • Did you find the A level Mathematics preparation too much of a challenge?
  • Did you enjoy GCSE Maths and want to continue your studies but also have chosen 3 other A level subjects?
  • Do you want, or need, more mathematics to support your other studies in subjects such Geography, Biology or Business Studies?

Entry requirement – Grade 4 GCSE Maths

 

Year 12

Year 13

Aut.1

Algebraic techniques,

Quadratics,

Graphical work,

 

Radians,

Trigonometry,

Differentiation,

Moments

Aut.2

Circles,

Inequalities,

Trigonometry

Statistics and data

Parametrics,

Normal distribution

Forces & friction

Spr.1

Algebraic work,

Binomial Expansion, Differentiation

Parametrics,

Normal distribution

Forces & friction

Spr.2

Integration,

Hypothesis testing,

Forces & motion

Vectors,

Application of forces

Sum.1

Algebraic methods,

Vectors,

Variable acceleration

Numerical methods,

Integration,

Projectiles

Sum.2

Functions,

Logarithms and exponentials

 

 

Where does this subject lead me?

Mathematics is a well-respected and sought after qualification for a wide verity of Higher Education Courses; it is essential for a degree in Mathematics or Physics.  Logical thinking and problems solving skills are highly valued in the workplace and lucrative industries like IT, banking and the stock market need people confident in using mathematics on a daily basis. 

More information on Why Study Maths? Can be found on the AMSP website, click here.

 

Careers Information

There are a shortage of people going into jobs that use lots of maths!

A level Mathematics is a requirement for certain degree courses, such as Accounting, Computing, Product Design, Engineering, Physics, Statistics, and often Economics. Although not a requirement, A level Mathematics is a typical subject taken by students on courses as wide ranging as Architecture, Law and Psychology.

You can watch a great series of videos of young people who are working in jobs that use Maths on the BBC Bitesize website.

For example, careers leading from this subject, click here.

For advice on apprenticeship courses, click here.