Braidwood Trust School

MATHS

Staff List

D Brown

A.J Miller

T Haynes

R Ahmed

S Israr

J Harper

Overview / Curriculum statement

Our aim is to ensure that all learners:

• become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics, so that learners develop an understanding and the ability to recall and apply knowledge rapidly and accurately.

• can reason mathematically by following a line of enquiry and explaining the outcomes.

•can solve problems by applying their mathematical knowledge, including breaking down problems into a series of simpler steps and persevering in finding the answer.

Mathematics is the study of topics such as quantity (numbers), structure, space, and change. It is sometimes called a language of patterns and relationships.

Curriculum overview - Maths - KS3 - 2024

Curriculum Overview - Maths - KS4/5 2024

Key Stage 3

Here at Braidwood our curriculum follows the National Curriculum programme of study, teaching the topics separately and revisiting every year. This means Number is taught in the first half-term then Measure. Then subsequently Algebra, Statistics and Geometry. In the summer half-term investigations and problem-solving exercises assess fluency, reasoning and problem-solving across all domains. We also recognise the importance of gaining functional numeracy skills. The development and promotion of numeracy skills is also encouraged on a cross-curricular basis.

Assessment at KS3

Students are assessed both formally and informally. Formal assessments in the Maths department are carried out using a low-stakes, high frequency framework. This ensures students receive regular checking of their knowledge with quality and purposeful feedback. Progression is then shown on each pupil's rubrics sheet Students are also assessed for learning informally with an array of techniques. These include open & closed questioning and online methods.

Summative assessments are carried out half-termly.

Key Stage 4/5

Students follow either the Edexcel Mathematics GCSE, Pearson Edexcel Entry Level Certificate in Mathematics or Pearson Edexcel Functional Skills Mathematics Level 1 or 2 course.

Designed around the needs of our learners working at this level these qualifications are based around enabling learners to show what they can do – from the carefully selected content and clearly-worded questions, to the level-targeted tests that assess small increments of progress, and the assessments taken when the student is ready.

Thus focussing on developing confidence and ability.

Assessment at Key Stage 4/5

At GCSE level students are entered for their final examination papers at different levels, according to prior individual progress and attainment. Higher level will award grades 3-9 (with 9 being the highest) Foundation level will award grades 1-5.

For the Entry level certificate learners will need to complete one or two externally set tests and an externally set task.

Tests will assess mathematical techniques. The tests consist of closed-response, graphical and short-open-response questions. Tasks will assess communication and problem-solving skills. The tasks consist of short-open-response questions based on practical skills tasks. Students must complete the test(s) and task for the Entry Level that they are entered for. There will be three tests and three tasks available for each Entry Level.

For the the Functional Skills Qualification in Mathematics at Level 1 learners will complete one externally assessed assessment. Each assessment comprises two sections – a non-calculator section (calculator prohibited) and a calculator section (calculator permitted).