Mathematics

Aim

To continue the development of skills from the groundwork set in Years 7 and 8
To introduce new areas and techniques needed to access the GCSE mathematics curriculum
Encourage students to engage in problem-solving tasks to help them prepare for the GCSE course

Topics covered

Autumn term

Indices and standard form
Proportion
Algebraic manipulation
Functions and graphs

Spring term

Rate and speed
Properties of shapes
Constructions
Congruence and similarity

Summer term

Pythagoras theorem
Trigonometry
Volume and surface area
Data analysis
Probability and sets

Teaching groups

The students are grouped into nine teaching groups. These groups are based on the Year 8 teaching groups and were reviewed on the basis of the end of Year 8 assessment. These teaching groups are continually reviewed throughout the year to ensure all students are placed to make the best progress.

Assessment

Class work is continually assessed by each class teacher and homework is set weekly using Sparx Maths
Written assessments take place prior to the School’s review points. Two of these assessments are more formal tests designed to give students early exposure to some of the challenges of GCSE papers. All the assessments are used to review the grouping of students and the final assessment of the year is used to inform the grouping of students for Year 10

How to support at home

Practising core mathematical skills such as multiplication tables and written methods with your child
Ensure that students complete and hand in their homework
Ensure that your child has access to specialised mathematical equipment which is needed at different points within the year. For example, a calculator, a protractor and a pair of compasses
Encourage your child to use Sparx Maths to complete online homework tasks or to reinforce new skills

For further information

Although the GCSE course does not start until Year 10, students will be preparing for Edexcel GCSE Maths 1MA1.

For further information on the Year 10 syllabus, click here.