Mathematics
- Mr. D. Ball (Head of Maths, CPD Co-ordinator)
- Mrs. J. Shawcross (Assistant Head Teacher / Director of College)
- Ms. J. Woods
- Mr. R. Batty (Head of Pastrol KS3)
Mathematics has been described as "the Queen of knowledge". It is a set of logical processes, a universal language, a philosophy, an art, a tool for life.
In the maths department we embrace all these ideas and hope that through the pupil’s experiences in the school and out, they get a rich flavour of mathematics.
Outside activities include: The Cipher challenge, UKMC competitions and mathletics.
The National Curriculum for Mathematics is now well established and our courses are designed to enable all students to learn through enjoyment. The National Curriculum divides Mathematics into these areas:
Using and Applying Mathematics
- Number
- Algebra
- Shape, Space and Measure
- Handling Data
Learning Mathematics is a continuous process. We aim to build on the rich and varied experiences which each and every student brings with them from their primary school and from the world outside, to help and build up the confidence of those who find Mathematics difficult and to extend the horizons of those who have had an easier passage.
Throughout their school career this support and guidance will endeavour to enable all students to grow in mathematical stature at their own best pace and to provide a firm foundation for the future.
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KS4 Mathematics GCSE
Students will be prepared for the current GCSE Examination in Mathematics which is modular based. Students will take Unit 1 (20%) during the Autumn term of Year 10 Unit 2 (30%) at the end of Year 10. Unit 3 is the final paper and is at the end of year 11.
The aim of the course is to enable students to:
- Develop their mathematical knowledge and oral, written and practical skills in a manner which encourages confidence.
- Read mathematics, and write and talk about the subject in a variety of ways.
- Develop a feel for number, carry out calculations and understand the significance of the results obtained.
- Apply mathematics in everyday situations and develop an understanding of the part which mathematics plays in the world around them.
- Solve problems, present the solutions clearly, check and interpret the results.
- Develop an understanding of mathematical principles.
- Recognise when and how a situation may be represented mathematically, identify and interpret relevant factors and where necessary, select an appropriate mathematical method to solve the problem.
- Use mathematics as a means of communication with emphasis on the use of clear expression.
- Develop an ability to apply mathematics in other subjects, particularly Science and Technology
- Develop the abilities to reason logically, to classify, to generalise and to prove.
- Appreciate patterns and relationships in mathematics.
- Produce and appreciate imaginative and creative work arising from mathematical ideas.
- Develop their mathematical abilities by considering problems and conducting individual and co-operative enquiry and experiment, including extended pieces of work of a practical and investigative kind.
- Appreciate the interdependence of different branches of mathematics.
- Acquire a foundation appropriate to their further study of mathematics and of other disciplines.
- Enjoy solving problems.
The GCSE mathematics exam is changing as from September 2010. The school will continue to deliver a modular course with 3 units of study. The final course details have just been released.
