In this Course, and its component Units, there will be an emphasis on skills development and the application of those skills.  Pupils are required to pass all 3 units and the final Added Value Test in order to achieve a course award.

Numeracy

The general aim of this Unit is to develop learners’ numerical and information handling skills to solve straightforward, real-life problems involving number, money, time and measurement.  Learners will also interpret graphical data and use their knowledge and understanding of probability to identify solutions to straightforward real-life problems involving money, time and measurement.

Applications of Mathematics: Managing Finance and Statistics

The general aim of this Unit is to develop skills that focus on the use of mathematical ideas and strategies that can be applied to managing finance and statistics in straightforward real-life contexts. This includes using skills in budgeting as well as skills in organising and presenting data, to explain solutions and/or draw conclusions.

Applications of Mathematics: Geometry and Measures

The general aim of this Unit is to develop skills that focus on the use of mathematical ideas and strategies that can be applied to geometry and measurement in straightforward real-life contexts. This includes using skills in interpreting and in using shape, space and measures to determine and explain solutions.

All levels of Mathematics courses studied in S3/4 are allocated 4 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, Jigsaws, Dominoes, Loop games, Star Stations, Mathletts and Team games
• Various Smartboard resources for use with a whole class or in teams
• Practical resources for teaching Time, Money, Measurement and Shape
• TI Nspire, Graphic calculators and Graphing software
• A variety of co-operative learning strategies

Pupils are assessed continuously throughout the course using various formative assessment methods including teacher, self and peer assessment.  Individual pupil Mini-whiteboards are used regularly.  Assessment is for Learning methodologies are used on a daily basis including clear Learning Intentions, Traffic Lighting and Next Steps.  Lesson Revision Starters are used regularly to enable pupils to recognise areas that may require further attention.

Throughout S3/4, when they are ready, pupils will sit assessments in Numeracy, Managing Finance & Statistics and Geometry & Measures. Finally to achieve the Level 4 Applications of Mathematics Course they will need to pass the Added Value Test.

Teachers keep their own records of pupils’ Home Study but assessment scores are recorded in a departmental spreadsheet.  Pupils are given feedback on Home Study tasks and assessments during class.  Following each assessment they will evaluate their progress and make note of topics they need to consolidate.  There is also S4 Tracking, Parents’ evening and full reports.  Please see the school calendar for these dates.