GCSE Mathematics
The GCSE Maths course develops problem-solving, logical reasoning, and data analysis skills. Through three exams, students build confidence in tackling complex problems, improving critical thinking and attention to detail. These skills are valuable in many careers, including engineering and finance. Regular practice and using tools like a scientific calculator are key to success in this course.
It is assessed through 3 exams at the end of Year 11, each 1.5 hours and worth 80 marks. Paper One is non-calculator and Papers Two and Three are both calculator. The exam board we use is AQA. There are two tiers of entry available – Higher (grades awarded are 9-4) and Foundation (grades awarded are 5-1). Students should have an idea of their tier of entry, though for some students around the 4-5 grade, this decision won’t be made until after the Pre-Public Exam (PPE) at the end of this term.
It is important that your child has a scientific calculator and brings it to every maths lesson. We recommend the Casio fx-83GT X.
Revision guides and workbooks are available to buy in school for the mathematics specification at either the higher or foundation tier (available via parent pay). Please contact your child’s teacher if you are unsure which tier of revision guide to buy.
Year 11 students have 2 main assessments, one in November and one in late February. In addition to this there are shorter topic tests their teacher may set.
PPE – this will be a GCSE style paper covering topics taught in Year 10 and in the Autumn term in Year 11. Revision lists have already been made and handed out to students, these have also been posted on Teams. Following the main assessments, the students’ marks for each question will be entered into an online facility which highlights individual topics which students need to work on and points them in the direction of relevant Sparx Maths videos they should watch and tasks they should complete.
There are plenty of useful maths websites for revision or extra help on any maths topic.
Sparx Maths: www.sparxmaths.uk
Students use this for their maths homework and so should already be familiar with this site. The can complete tasks on any topic by clicking on ‘independent learning’ in the menu down the side and then choosing the topic they would like to revise.
Maths Genie: www.mathsgenie.co.uk
Another useful website, with practice questions and past exam papers.
Corbett Maths: www.corbettmaths.com
A great website with videos, exam questions and solutions on all the topics covered on the maths GCSE.
To support the students in their mathematics this year we are offering the following:
Maths Form Time Intervention – small group intervention held during 2 form time sessions. Students will be invited to attend based on analysis of assessments.
Maths Revision – This will begin on Monday evenings after school between 3pm and 4pm in January. This will target areas of concern highlighted by the November PPEs. Students who should attend specific sessions will be sent personal invitations. ent here
