Maths at KS4

At Key Stage 4 we build upon the skills learned at Key Stage 3, with an emphasis on solving problems and applying mathematical process to a variety of situations.

We encourage students to persevere with problems that may be unfamiliar and unstructured, whilst at the same time improving fluency with a range of standard mathematical techniques.

In lessons, students work collaboratively to gain a deep understanding of the topics. This may include working together on a problem or puzzle, or using technology to explore concepts with dynamic software. This learning is then reinforced through practice which will continue outside of the classroom in regular homework tasks and independent study. Homework can take a variety of forms which may be written consolidation, or use of an online website such as Hegarty Maths, MyMaths and Method Maths where instant feedback is given and repeated attempts are encouraged.

In addition to daily assessment in the classroom, there are half-termly progress tests that occur in the last week of half term. These are used to monitor students’ progress and review setting arrangements. Students below target may be offered extra support and/or given extra work to complete. It is therefore important that students revise and practise throughout the year; revision guides are available from school.

Exam Information

The exam board we use is AQA.

All students taking GCSE Mathematics are taking the AQA GCSE Mathematics (8300) qualification. This is a linear course that has no coursework, and has three exams (one non-calculator and two calculator) that are both sat at the end of Year 11. Each paper is 1 hour and 30 minutes long.

Students that are in set 1 are entered for the higher tier paper, which can be awarded grades 4 to 9. Students in set 3 will be entered for the foundation tier paper, which can be awarded grades 1 to 5. Students in set 2 will have the option to enter either higher or foundation. This decision is made after the Year 11 mock exams.

GCSE Revision