GCSE
All students will study Mathematics in years 10 and 11. The GCSE in Mathematics is now a two tier examination, Foundation and Higher, with the former offering grades C – G and the latter grades A* – D. All girls will be taught the syllabus for the Higher tier, where appropriate, although it is possible that a few girls may eventually be entered at Foundation Level. The decision on level of entry for the terminal module will be made as late as possible after consultation with parents as this determines the range of grades available.
The girls will follow the AQA modular GCSE. This entails modules in Statistics, Number and a module in Shape, Space and Algebra, as shown in below.
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Statistics (19%) Exam in November Year 10
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Number (26%) Exam in March Year 10
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Shape, Space & Algebra (55%) Exam in June 2011
Each module is split into two examinations, one with a calculator and one without. The first two modules may be retaken if necessary (at the candidate’s expense) at future examination sessions. But each module can only be sat a maximum of twice at the same tier.
There is no coursework element for GCSE Mathematics. The Using and Applying Mathematics strand of the Specification is now assessed through the exams. Questions are longer, involving a number of steps or processes and require greater problem solving skills.
From 2012 Functional Skills will be tested as part of the GCSE exam for the first time. Current proposals suggest that a maximum of 55% of available marks will be assessing their ability to recall and use the prescribed content. With about 26% assessing their ability to select and apply appropriate Mathematical methods and the final 19% for interpreting and analysing problems and developing strategies to solve them. We are developing our Key Stage 3 schemes of work and introducing tasks and extended projects which will develop these skills.