Key stage 4
Aims
At Key Stage 4, pupils work towards the Edexcel examination at the end of Year 11. The Mathematics studied continues to come from the National Curriculum requirements: aspects of number, algebra, proof, handling data and shape and space work are covered. In addition, candidates are expected to use and apply their knowledge in both coursework and applied examination questions.
The GCSE examination
The final examination is entered at one of three tiers, namely:
- Foundation: grades D – G
- Intermediate: grades B – E
- Higher: grades A* – D
None of our students will sit the Foundation tier examination. Sets 1 – 3 will sit the higher tier exam, Set 4 will sit the intermediate examination in November of Year 11. If they score a grade B and they are prepared to work hard, they will then have the opportunity to do the higher tier exam in June of Year 11.
The overall grade is based on the following assessments:
- Coursework 1 (10%): An investigative task
- Coursework 2 (10%): A project using data handling skills
- Non-Calculator Paper (40%)
- Calculator Paper (40%)
Each paper comprises two hours of questions taken from the course content.
One of the two pieces of coursework will generally be completed in Year 10 whilst the other is undertaken in Year 11. Both class and homework time are given over to these tasks. The two papers are taken in the final session at the end of Year 11.
Essential pieces of equipment for the course are a ruler, a protractor, a pair of compasses, a set square and a scientific calculator. The Mathematics Department has a stock of graphical calculators which is available for use in lessons. Although not a requirement, revision guides will be made available for purchase during the year.
Additional Mathematics
In Year 10/11, Set 1 will also study the OCR Free Standing Mathematics Qualificiation, Additional Mathematics, alongside higher level GCSE. This will sharpen and extend their mathematical skills and knowledge and set strong foundations for study at AS level.
