GCSE Mathematics
As a core subject, Mathematics is compulsory for all students at Key Stage 4, leading to a GCSE qualification (or an Entry Level in exceptional cases) awarded by the WJEC. There are four main areas of study as prescribed in the National Curriculum and students will simply continue to develop skills in these areas at higher levels from where they left Key Stage 3. These areas being:
- Using and Applying Mathematics
- Number and Algebra
- Shape, Space and Measures
- Handling Data
Tiers of Entry
There are two tiers of entry which provide access to the following grades:
- Higher Tier - Grades A*, A, B, C, D
- Foundation Tier - Grades C, D, E, F, G
The tier of entry is not finalised until Year 11 and is made on the recommendation of the teaching staff. This is based on students work in Years 10 and 11.
Examination (100% of total marks)
All students sit two written papers at the end of year 11. Each paper is worth 50% and is two hours long. The first is non-calculator.
Equipment
Students are expected to provide their own equipment for all exams - internal and external - and we have a strict policy of not lending anything for these. We believe that students should take responsibility for this. They should also bring this equipment to all their Maths lessons as a matter of course.
The list of equipment required is - ruler, compasses, protractor, calculator (scientific recommended) and appropriate pens, pencils, erasers etc. All these items may be purchased from the school shop based within the Maths department.
Students may also be issued with textbooks from time to time, when appropriate, which should be looked after carefully.
Further Study
For those students who intend to pursue Mathematics at AS level or beyond, it is expected that they will have successfully completed the Higher Tier course, and preferably have gained a grade A or better - although each case is considered carefully on its merits.
