Handsworth Grammar School

Mathematics

The Maths Department staff will encourage students to develop

  1. Their mathematical skills to the maximum possible at a pace appropriate to their current level of ability.
  2. A positive attitude to mathematics, including, confidence, enjoyment and perseverance.
  3. An appreciation of the place of mathematics in society.
  4. An ability to think mathematically and work independently.
  5. An ability to use mathematics across the curriculum.
  6. A firm foundation for appropriate further study.

Key Stage 3

In Key Stage 3 the students are taught the National Curriculum using the text books Essential Mathematics by D. Rayner. A separate book is used for each year and the vast majority of students achieve Level 7 or better by the end of year 9. The students are taught Number and Algebra, Shape and Space, Data Handling and how to Use and Apply Mathematics. The vast majority are entered at Level 6-8 at the end of Year 9.

Key Stage 4 (GCSE)

The Department follows the specification of EDEXCEL at GCSE. Most students are entered at the Highest Tier of entry but some are entered at Intermediate Level. Very few students fail to achieve grade C or better.

The exam consists of two, two hour papers worth 40% each and two pieces of coursework worth 10% each.

The system is changing for year 10 in September 2006 when there will only be two tiers of entry and all our students will be entered at the highest tier. There will be two exams each of one and three quarter hours.

The text books used are specifically designed to match the specification being taught.

Key Stage 5 (AS and A2 Level)

The Department follows the specification of AQA at AS and A2 level. The AS consists of three modules C1, C2 and S1 which are all equally weighted. The A2 consists of three modules C3, C4 and M1 which are all equally weighted. It is possible to study Further Maths at either AS or A2 level by taking extra modules.

Text books matched to the specification are used to deliver the course. In year 12 ten periods of maths are needed for the AS course and in year 13 ten periods of maths are needed for the A2 course.