Maths is challenging and fun
We believe mathematics should be enjoyed at all levels and that students make progress by experiencing a wide range of mathematical activities.
Our schemes of work are designed to cater for our students' full range of abilities with differentiated material for the more able students and support for those who are less confident. Furthermore, all students are taught in sets according to ability.
We offer extra-curricular activities that include Fantasy Football and a Maths Homework Club where staff are available to help with homework, revision or coursework.
Our Key Stage 3 scheme of work is designed to cater for our students’ full range of abilities with differentiated material for the more able students and extra support for those who are less confident.
Key Stage 3
Year 7,8 & 9
Our Key Stage 3 scheme of work is designed to cater for our students’ full range of abilities with differentiated material for the more able students and extra support for those who are less confident.
In Year 7 students are taught in six sets according to ability. All sets study the same key topics to enable students to move between sets where appropriate.
The core Curriculum follows the National Strategy and we have a wide range of resources and worksheets to supplement our excellent class textbook “Essential Mathematics 7” by David Rayner (ISBN 1902 214 099). Year 8 core text book is ‘Essential Mathematics 8’ by David Rayner (IBSN 1902 214 102). Year 9 core text book is “Essential Mathematics 9” by David Rayner (ISBN 1902 214 110).
Year 7 and 8 topics include:
- Number
- Algebra
- Shape and Space
- Data Handling
Year 9 also includes: Using and Applying Mathematics
Wherever possible, practical activities, games and ICT will be used to enhance student learning and make the study of mathematics a dynamic and meaningful experience.
A typical mathematics lesson will begin with a “Mental Maths” starter, practical activity or worksheet. This is followed by the main exercise/activity which addresses the lesson objectives. Towards the end of the lesson, the plenary activity may review or consolidate these objectives.
In preparation for the GCSE Maths Module 1 (data handling) students, in year 9, begin to study appropriate project based topics in the Summer term
A weekly homework task will give students the opportunity to practice and develop their skills. In addition to this, parents may wish to increase the ‘fun’ element in mathematics by playing number/strategy games, card games, puzzles, quizzes. Also maths websites provide many opportunities for students to practise their skills.
Mathematics web sites include:
Finally, there is a weekly Maths Helpdesk where students can ask for extra help. The Maths Department also provides the opportunity for students to enter the Schools Fantasy Football League and a national Cryptography Competition.
Key Stage 4
Students are set in Years 10 and 11 according to ability. They will be following the Edexcel Modular Specification (2381) at Higher or Foundation Level.
The course is assessed by three modular examinations:-
- Data Handling 20%
- Number, Algebra, Shape, Space and Measures (1) 30%
- Number, Algebra, Shape, Space and Measures (2) 50%
The two levels of study lead to the following possible GCSE grades:-
- Higher Tier Grades A*, A, B, C or D
- Foundation Tier Grades C, D, E, F or G
There are no coursework requirements for Mathematics. However, some students will have the opportunity to submit material for assessment in a BTEC in Mathematical Applications.
Appropriate textbooks are used in each set and these are as follows:-
HIGHER: Edexcel GCSE Mathematics – (Modular) – Higher Tier published by Heinemann (ISBN Number 978 1846 901027)
FOUNDATION: Edexcel GCSE Mathematics – (Modular) - Foundation Tier published by Heinemann (IBSN Number 978 1903 133989)
Homework is set a minimum of once a week and should last 40-60 minutes. All students will be issued with an Edexcel Homework Book which contains the majority of homework assignments.
Key stage 5
Sixth Form Holmer Green Senior School offers both AS Mathematics (Core Maths 1 and 2 and Statistics) and A-Level Mathematics (AS plus Core Maths 3 and 4 and Mechanics). We are delighted with the success of this year's Sixth form with three outstanding students achieving A grade Mathematics.