Mathematics

St. Joseph's Catholic College teaches Maths to all students from Year 7 to Year 11, as well as providing A-levels in Maths and Further Maths and Level 2 courses.

The primary aim of the Maths department is to develop the mathematical knowledge, skills, concepts and strategies of every pupil to the maximum possible level, including providing the pupils with the mathematics they need for every day life and for other school subjects, and to provide where appropriate, a foundation for further study. Pupils will be made aware of methods of investigation and given an insight into the development of mathematics and the power of mathematics as a language. This is an essential development in the analysis and communication of information and ideas.

More generally, the department aims to contribute to the development of the pupils' personal qualities of curiosity, cooperation, self-expression, self-evaluation and aesthetic appreciation. Pupils should be able to work independently and cooperatively, and to experience the enjoyment and satisfaction which results from achieving success in mathematics.

The College follows the National Curriculum, which splits KS3 and KS4 Maths into Number, Algebra, Shape, Space & Measures and Data Handling.

Mathematics Course Outlines

Years 7 and 8

Maths is taught as part of a spiralling curriculum, where students will revisit and extend topics throughout the year.

They study a variety of modules covering, number, algebra, shape, space & measures and data handling.

All students will be taught through a variety of learning styles within these various modules, supporting the use of mental and written methods of calculation. Using and applying mathematics will form part of each unit and students will be encouraged to also learn how to use a calculator and ICT appropriately.

Students will be set across four tutor groups. Regular assessments of pupil’s progress will take place and allow for easy movement between sets.

Years 9 to 11

Students will study GCSE mathematics during years 9 to 11. This will encompass the attainment targets of Number, Algebra, Shape, Space and Data Handling, as well as Using and Applying Mathematics and Functional skills.

During this course students will

• develop a positive attitude to Mathematics
• consolidate basic skills and meet appropriately challenging work
• apply mathematical knowledge and understanding to solve problems
• think and communicate mathematically, precisely, logically and creatively
• appreciate the place and use of Mathematics in society
• apply mathematical concepts to situations arising in their own lives
• understand the interdependence of different branches of Mathematics
• acquire the skills needed to use technology such as calculators and computers effectively
• work cooperatively, independently, practically and investigatively
• acquire a firm foundation for further study

This course is assessed with the OCR board and takes the form of two final exams; one calculator paper and one non-calculator paper.

Most students in set 1 and 4 will take their GCSE at the end of year 10. Set 1 will progress onto an AS level course and set 4 will progress onto a personal finance course. Students who find GCSE mathematics challenging will also study an Entry Level Certificate award in Mathematics. Students in the middle sets will take their GCSE at the end of year 11.

All students will take a functional skills qualification at an appropriate level at the end of year 10.

Mathematics Homework

Mathematics Staff