Mathematics
Mr G Davis - Head of Mathematics
Mrs T Thethy
Mrs S Sadif
Miss E Bowers
All pupils learn mathematics throughout their time at Bushey Academy. We have a dedicated team of mathematics staff, who deliver four lessons per week to each student. The department is well equipped, with interactive resources to engage pupils in their mathematics education. We also provide complementary online learning packages enabling pupils and their parents to reinforce their mathematics skills from the comfort of their own homes. We have an innovative ethos, which brings enthusiasm and enjoyment to students learning.
Years 7, 8 and 9 students complete a fully integrated programme that covers all areas of the mathematics National Curriculum in ability-defined sets. Progress is assessed using end of unit and end of half-term tests and end of Key Stage 3 type test. This work lays the foundation for years 10 and 11.
Years 10 and 11 complete the Edexcel Mathematics GCSE modular course. Pupils also complete an online ALaN award in Practical Mathematics.
Students gain experience of working independently, in small groups and as a whole class. They actively and creatively participate to enhance their learning. Students are encouraged and given the chance to become independent learners through investigating new topics and problems and by reading through a worked example.
Key Stage 3
At key stage 3 students are taught in sets based on ability and movement between sets is constantly reviewed. The National Numeracy Strategy has been introduced into the Year 7 scheme of work and this is now being extended across all of key stage 3.
The main resource for teaching Years 7 to 9 is the mathematics FrameWorking text books produced by Collins.
Homework
It is expected that students will do a minimum of two 20 minute pieces of homework per week.
Equipment
Students will use scientific calculators, rulers, compasses and angle-measurers throughout the key stage 3 course. We recommend they have their own set of this equipment which they should bring to each mathematics lesson.
Key Stage 4
At key stage 4 students are taught in sets based on ability and movement between sets is constantly reviewed. KS4 students follow the Edexcel Modular Course and Oxford text books are used as the main resource.
GCSE Mathematics
Aims of the course
The aims of the Mathematics course in Years 10 and 11 are:
- To ensure that all students study mathematics to the highest level of which they are capable.
- To provide interesting lessons for all students, which will develop their skills in using and applying a range of mathematical knowledge.
Course content
The Year 10 and 11 mathematics course develops the skills and extends the knowledge which students have acquired in Year 9. The students learn more about the four areas of number, algebra, shape and space and data-handling. Within each of these areas they use and apply their knowledge and skills to real-life situations and whilst investigating new areas of mathematics.
The mathematics course is based around the Oxford mathematics textbooks. Students experience a variety of types of lesson: teacher-led sessions which introduce new concepts, individual work where they practice skills, group or paired work on tasks which use and develop their understanding. Students use calculators and computers when required.
Assessment/Homework/Equipment
Assessment
All our students are entered for a GCSE in Mathematics (Edexcel Modular Course) or the Certificate of Achievement.The students are banded broadly in line with the entry levels of the Mathematics GCSE:
| Entry Level |
GCSE Grades |
| Higher |
A*, A, B, C, D |
| Foundation |
C, D, E, F, G |
Homework
It is expected that students will do a minimum of two 45 minute pieces of home work per week.
Equipment
Students will use scientific calculators, rulers, compasses and angle-measurers throughout the course and in the GCSE examinations: we recommend they have their own set of this equipment which they should bring to each mathematics lesson.
Key Stage 5- Year 12 and 13
The two year A Level Mathematics course requires students to complete six modules of the Edexcel Mathematics syllabus covering Pure Mathematics, Mechanics and/or Statistics.
In Year 12 students study three modules, C1, C2 and either Statistics (S1) or Mechanics (M1) this leads to an AS qualification in Mathematics. In Year 13 the students continue to study a further three modules C3, C4; S2 or M2 of the course leading to the A Level Mathematics qualification.
Useful resources
The content of the syllabus and other useful information can be obtained from the website www.edexcel.org.uk
Past papers can be obtained from www.gcsemathspastpapers.com Students also have access to mathematics online resources such as MyMaths and SamLearning.