Maths

The Tutorial Foundation Curriculum – broad and balanced

Mathematics Curriculum

Summary:

Mathematics is a core subject which is taught to all students across the Key Stages.

Teaching/Delivery:

Teaching is provided on a regular basis by the appointed Maths Tutors. Lessons and teaching are delivered through teacher explanation and modelling, online videos, independent study and group work. The overall aim is to provide a stimulating and varied approach to the study and for all students to develop positive mind-sets towards mathematical problem solving and confidence in their numeracy skills.

Curriculum Intent:

Our intent is that students gain the confidence and good practice needed to make consistent progress, whatever their starting point in Mathematics. We take account of different learning styles, from confident and competent Mathematicians to those who lack confidence in their mathematical abilities. We appreciate that social, emotional, mental health needs will impact on learning and progress and aim to individualise the learning plan to meet each individual student’s needs.

Mathematics is a cyclic subject with layers that build on the previous ones to increase the depth and understanding of our students. Mathematics is a subject which isn’t necessarily bounded by KS3/KS4 delineation. We place importance on revisiting topics throughout the years to help students to know and remember more. Interleaving is a key aspect of our curriculum

All students develop their competence in manipulating numbers across the core areas of Number, Algebra, Shape and Handling Data. They are encouraged to apply their knowledge to practical situations and real life examples. There is a focus on key concepts and techniques to help students prepare for GCSE.

The GCSE curriculum for Maths broadly comprises 3 main strands:- Number and Algebra, Geometry and Measure, Statistics and Probability. Weighting of marks in Foundation tier:- Number 25%; Algebra 20%; Ratio, proportion and rates of change 25%; Geometry and measures 15%; Probability 15%.

It is recognised that GCSE Mathematics is too demanding for some students. ELC Mathematics is designed as a qualification that offers students who are unlikely to achieve a grade in GCSE Mathematics the opportunity to achieve a certificated award. It is also a useful qualification for students in preparation for GCSE and is used to monitor students’ progress and build their confidence in tackling assessments in a regular and measured way.

As a certified exam centre, we offer a range of qualifications from AQA Entry Level Maths, Pearson Edexcel Functional Skills Levels 1 and 2 and Edexcel iGCSE Mathematics.

Assessment:

Students are assessed on the topics covered at the end of a 6 – 8 week teaching cycle. Students who have significant gaps in their knowledge or understanding of mathematical concepts are encouraged to map their progress through completing Entry level qualifications.

All KS4 students work towards nationally recognised certification relating to their level of knowledge and skills. They are not limited to one set of qualifications but are encouraged to progress to the next level of achievement an a timescale that is suited to their pace of learning.

Examination Boards / Qualifications:

AQA Entry Level Mathematics is a linear qualification which means that students submit all components that form the assessment at the end of the course. Students should submit for assessment and moderation evidence from eight The components can be completed in a time frame and at a pace that suits the individual student’s learning style.

The 8 components are as follows:

1: properties of number
2: the four operations (calculator not allowed)
3: ratio
4: money
5: the calendar and time
6: measures
7: geometry
8: statistics
Functional Skills (Levels 1 and 2). These courses equip learners with the practical skills needed to live, learn and work successfully. They are a mandatory part of all Apprenticeship frameworks in England. They consist of 2 papers, one calculator and one non-calculator. They are taken on demand when students have completed the necessary preparation.
Pearson Edexcel (9-1) Mathematics international GCSE (4MA1). This consists of 2 exam papers; each exam paper is 2 hours, with use of calculator and worth 100 marks. Mock exams are completed in the Autumn and Spring terms to assess whether students will be entered for Foundation or Higher tier exams in the Summer term.