Maths
Intent Statement
Every problem has a solution.
Our aim is for all our students to acquire a deep, long-term, secure and adaptable understanding of mathematics. In order to do this they must be able to:
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Rapidly and accurately recall and apply facts and concepts
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Develop a growing confidence to reason mathematically
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Develop the ability to apply maths to solve problems, to conjecture and to test hypotheses
We encourage students to develop mathematical behaviour and as such, our curriculum encourages students to develop deeper understanding to make links across curriculum areas and foster a mastery approach. Students embrace the challenge provided by mathematics problems to develop their fluency and independence.
In all years, mathematical concepts are explored in a variety of representations and problem-solving contexts to give pupils a richer and deeper learning experience. We encourage students to discuss their reasoning in lessons, as this can help formulate their answers. Discussing their work at home and asking them to explain techniques used in their books would support students in securing their knowledge.
Students will be offered a variety of opportunities and experiences that widen their appreciation of mathematics and the world around it, including developing an appreciation of some aspects of finance and more creative mathematics. They will also be taking part in national competitions such as the UKMT Mathematics Challenge, STEM activities & events and the Year 9 Southern Counties Maths Competition led by the faculty.
Key stage 3
Each term is split into blocks that ensure students spend enough time to get a deep understanding of the topics being covered. Year 7 starts with developing algebraic thinking and further development of algebraic skills is woven throughout the year so students reinforce and extend their knowledge and understanding.
Year 8 begins with the key topics of proportional reasoning which underpins a number of aspects of mathematics including ratio, fractions, decimals and percentages. Developing the key strands of geometry, handling data and algebraic reasoning continue throughout the year to build on their previous understanding.
In Year 9 reasoning within the key strands of geometry, handling data, algebra and proportion is a focus. Students are provided with opportunities to further develop their reasoning, fluency and problem solving across the strands.
Key stage 4
As in Key Stage 3, each of the major topic areas (Number, Algebra, Measurement, Geometry and Measures, Probability and Statistics), the curriculum is broken down into key strands. For each of these, the objectives are met, developed and revisited in the schemes of learning. The Year 10 and 11 schemes cover the whole of the Key Stage 4 content, with Key Stage 3 content revisited as the basis for new material in Foundation and Higher tiers.