Mathematics

The S. Anselm’s College Mathematics Department has fully embraced the newly reformed GCSE mathematics syllabus, with a dynamic approach that allows pupils to grow in confidence and develop their understanding of the course requirements and its increased focus on problem solving, clarity of working and use of logical methods. Regular problem solving sessions help develop these skills and our small set sizes ensure that every pupil receives the personalised support they need.

Year 9

Pupils start their GCSE Mathematics course in Kinder (Year 9). S. Anselm’s College follows the reformed Pearson Edexcel Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9–1) syllabus, which builds upon the foundations set at Common Entrance. The syllabus time comprises of both traditional teaching and cross-curricular projects. Class time utilises cutting-edge textbooks and materials that follow the new specifications for the subject. The cross-curricular projects form part of topic weeks and one-off sessions, where pupils will be encouraged to engage in problems revolving around a number of subjects. The aim of this is to increase the awareness of Maths and its validity in everyday life.

A variety of teaching styles are used and we are fortunate to have interactive whiteboards to facilitate teaching and learning. We try to make lessons as fun and engaging as possible. The use of mental warm ups, discussions and games are standard practice, stimulating pupils and consolidating their learning without their necessarily realising it. Pupils may be entered in the UKMT Intermediate Maths Challenge and Team Maths Challenge to further stretch the more able mathematicians.

GCSE Mathematics

The aims and objectives of the Pearson Edexcel Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9–1) in Mathematics are to enable pupils to:

• Develop fluent knowledge, skills and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts.
• Acquire, select and apply mathematical techniques to solve problems.
• Reason mathematically, make deductions and inferences, and draw conclusions.
• Comprehend, interpret and communicate mathematical information in a variety of forms appropriate to the information and context.

Course Content

The assessments will cover the following six content headings: number; algebra; ratio, proportion and rates of change; geometry and measures; probability; and statistics.

Assessment

There are regular topic tests throughout the three years in the College, with an end of year exam for both Kinder (Year 9) and Derwent (Year 10) and mocks in the Michaelmas Term for Arkwright (Year 11). Regular practice of past questions and examination-style problems take place within lessons.

The qualification consists of three equally-weighted written examination papers at either Foundation tier (1 to 5) or Higher tier (4 to 9).

• Each paper is 1 hour and 30 minutes long and is 80 marks. Each paper is worth 33¹/₃%  of the GCSE.
• Paper 1 is a non-calculator assessment and a calculator is allowed for Paper 2 and Paper 3.
• The content outlined for each tier will be assessed across all three papers.
• Each paper has a range of question types; some questions will be set in both mathematical and non-mathematical contexts.
• Being able to solve real world problems by applying mathematical knowledge is a major part of the course.