About the Course
Mathematics has always been at the forefront of human culture and development. By building on pupils’ own experiences mathematics encourages growth of thinking, reasoning and communication skills. It provides a structure for the development of knowledge, skills and understanding required for life. As a department we set high expectations for all of our students. At the Global Academy we offer a variety of teaching and learning methods to cater for the needs of each and every student and help to motivate them to learn, understand and enjoy maths. We also want students to develop a growth mindset so they are not afraid to take risks and make mistakes. We provide them with differentiation, and personalised feedback.
We recognis that in the realm of creative media, mathematical proficiency forms the bedrock for innovation and excellence. Through tailored teaching methods, we ignite students’ passion for mathematics, ensuring each individual’s unique learning needs are met. Our goal is to instill not just knowledge, but an appreciation and enjoyment of mathematical concepts, pivotal for aspiring professionals in the creative media landscape.
In essence, GCSE maths forms a fundamental toolkit that directly influences and enhances various aspects of roles within the creative and media industry. The problem-solving, analytical, and logical skills developed through mathematics are highly transferrable and essential in a long lasting career in media.
What I will study / do during the course?
The GCSE Maths topics are:
- Number
- Structure and calculation
- Fractions, decimals and percentages
- Measures and accuracy
- Algebra
- Notation, vocabulary and manipulation
- Graphs
- Solving equations and inequalities
- Sequences
- Ratio, proportion and rates of change
- Geometry and measures
- Properties and construction
- Mensuration and calculation
- Vectors
- Probability
- Statistics
In addition, there are three assessment objectives that will be tested:
- AO1: Use and apply standard techniques
- AO2: Reason, interpret and communicate mathematically
- AO3: Solve problems in mathematics and in other context.
We implement our curriculum through a variety of strategies, including:
- Embedding quality teaching and learning:We use a variety of assessments for learning strategies to promote student engagement and understanding. We also provide personalised written feedback to help students identify and correct their misconceptions.
- Supporting teachers to deliver excellence:We provide regular support and training to help them develop their skills and knowledge. We also have a process in place to monitor and review teacher performance.
- Measuring the impact of our curriculum:We use various data to measure the impact of our curriculum, including student exam results, extended written work, and teacher observations.
Regular assessments are used to monitor students’ progress along with marking and feedback from teachers. Students are also given homework linked to the work completed in lesson in order to consolidate their learning.
In year 11, the emphasis is on exam practice and technique. Regular mocks are taken to plan for intervention and support. Students are carefully monitored to ensure they achieve their full potential.
At the end of Year 11, students sit three AQA examinations: Paper 1- Non-Calculator, Paper 2 and 3 are both Calculator. Each paper is 1hour and 30 minutes long and worth 80 marks each. These account for 100% of the course since there is no coursework.
All students are expected to complete set tasks on MathsWatch and use it for further study, revision and homework.
Students are encouraged to ask any member of the department for help and support when needed. This can be by appointment or drop in at break, lunch or before/after school.
What qualification will I get?
The Maths GCSE Course covers the latest linear AQA syllabus (8300) and is designed to help students prepare and pass their Maths GCSE exam. GCSE Maths is an essential qualification to have. Also, a GCSE in Maths can boost your confidence when using numbers in everyday situations.
Where could this course take me?
GCSE Maths is a benchmark qualification for further education and a host of employment opportunities in the creative media industry.
Scheme of Work
Download Scheme of Work HERE
Course Resources and Downloads
Our learning resources platform for homework tasks and video clips on each and every topic we cover: https://www.vle.mathswatch.com
Recommended revision guide: GCSE Maths AQA Revision Guide: Foundation/Higher – for the Grade 9-1 Course (with Online Edition) by CGP Books
There is an expectation that students log on to MathsWatch and complete a minimum of 20 minutes per day on the set tasks.
At the beginning of year 10, each student is given unique login details for MathsWatch.
