Higher Mathematics

The Higher Mathematics course develops important mathematical techniques which are critical to successful progression beyond Higher level in Mathematics and many other curriculum areas. The
skills, knowledge and understanding in the course also support learning in technology, science, and social studies.

Higher Mathematics Course Outline with Links   

SQAHigherCourseSpecMaths.pdf

All levels of Mathematics courses studied in S5/6 are allocated 6 periods per week.

We use a wide variety of teaching approaches and resources to engage pupils fully in the learning experience.  Individual, paired and group-work is encouraged through the use of:

• Clear Desk Activities and Jigsaws
• Various websites and Smartboard resources
• Graphic calculators and Graphing software
• A variety of co-operative learning strategies

Internal Assessment

There are three key internal assessments throughout the course.

September Progress Test which provides an early indication of how pupils are coping with the course.

November Mini Prelim which provides experience of exam type questions.  This consists of a non-calculator paper and a calculator paper.

January Prelim Exam which emulates the final exam, non-calculator and calculator paper, and is used to provide an estimate grade.

External Course Exam – assessed by the SQA

The final examination is taken in two parts.

The final external exam is demanding and regular independent study is required, approximately 1-3 hours per week, in order to be successful.

Pupils will be given assignment and test grades in class and will receive more detailed reports in their S5 tracking and full report throughout the year. Please see the school calendar for these dates.