Maths

MATHEMATICS

The Mathematics Area is committed to helping all pupils develop their skills, knowledge and understanding appropriate to their ability.

In Year 7 we aim to:
• encourage pupils to develop a positive attitude to mathematics and enjoy their work.
• allow pupils to be proud of their achievement when solving mathematical problems through praise and reward for effort and success.
• instil in pupils an appreciation of the mathematical structure all around them and encourage awe at the Creator’s mathematical designs.
• build confidence in each pupil.
• develop perseverance and a determination to solve problems.
• promote the ability to communicate ideas effectively.

We aim to provide a variety of activities to encourage all pupils to achieve their potential. We will use the following techniques.
• formal class teaching
• teacher led group activities
• individualised pupil centred problem solving activities
• investigational work
• enhanced learning through use of ICT

The Year 7 syllabus covers work on Number, Algebra, Shape and Space, Data Analysis and Probability in addition to investigational work. We provide work from the National Curriculum syllabus in each of these areas at an appropriate level for each pupil. In addition we encourage non-calculator methods following on from Numeracy requirements at Primary School. Year 7 pupils are divided into two parallel bands J and S, based on their Primary records, KS2 results and Cognitive Ability Tests. The mathematics sets are then formed with 4 in band J and 5 in band S. Pupils may move between sets at any time if assessment evidence suggests that this is appropriate. Parents will always be informed of any set changes in writing.

We are proud of our examination results in mathematics and we regularly assess pupils through formal tests to ensure that learning is a continuous process throughout the year. We are not solely concerned with test results, however, and pupils progress is monitored using all of the following:

• test results • classwork • homework

• oral contributions • investigational work • annual examination result