MATHEMATICS

The contents of the syllabus are taught using a "concentric approach", that is, a topic is dealt with, not just once in the course of studies, but many times, each time revising the previous work before going on to a new feature. This approach is necessary since, with a student turnover rate of 15 - 20%, without this constant revision huge gaps would be created in the students' understanding of the subject. A considerable part of each year's work, then, is revision of previous work.

YEAR 7

5 periods per week Text:

ST(P) Mathematics Book 2A

SMP Books 1 & 2

Objectives:

(It is assumed that all students are competent in the operations of division, multiplication, addition and subtraction with natural numbers, fractions and decimals.)

To develop in each student confidence in his/her abilities.

Since the work in Key Stage 3 is of such a different nature to that Key Stage 2, it is important that each student feels that he/she can start afresh, and that past "failures" need not affect future progress. Thus the work is to be presented in an interesting and, if possible, amusing way, so that Maths need not be a subject to be feared.

Course Content:

  • Revision of fractions and decimals.
  • Directed numbers, negative numbers (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.)
  • Introduction to Algebra:
  • Simplification - (+,-,´ ,¸ )
  • Solving equations, one unknown (including fractions)
  • Word problems
  • Graphing - the straight line
  • Factorisation
  • Changing subjects of formula.
  • Geometry:
  • Angles
  • Parallel lines
  • Triangles (including properties of)
  • Quadrilaterals (including properties of)
  • Transformations -
    1. Translation
    2. Rotation
    3. Reflection

Assignments:

It is emphasised that this homework is the student's responsibility, something to be done for themselves, and not for their teacher or parents. Repetitive, small assignments are given to be completed each night. This will enable the student to recognise, learn and retain information

YEAR 8

5 periods per week

Text ST(P) Mathematics Book 3A

Objectives:

To reinforce the lessons from the previous year.

Course Content:

Algebra:

  • Detailed revision of all previous year's work
  • Simultaneous equations
  • Graphing parabola
  • Solving simple quadratics by factorisation
  • Word problems leading to quadratic equations.

Geometry:

  • Transformations geometry revised, plus enlargements
  • Area, volume problems (including the circle)
  • Properties of two dimensional figures, including Pythagoras' Theorem.
  • Trigonometry – introduction to sin., cos., tan., their use in simple diagrams.

Assignments:

Rather than long, repetitive assignments, we believe more will be learned and retained by small assignments completed every night.

 

YEAR 9

5 periods per week

Text ST(P) Mathematics Book 4A

Objectives:

With a good understanding of the principles of algebra, to start work for "O" level examinations.

¶¶ A Mathematical calculator is a must for this year.

Course Content:

Trigonometry:

  • Sin, Cos, Tan
  • Problem solving, including 3-D.

Matrices:

  • Algebra of matrices
  • Solving simultaneous equations
  • Route matrix
  • Transformation matrices
  • Transposition of matrices, including shears and one-way stretch
  • Problem solving.

Algebra:

  • Quadratics - solving by "completion of the perfect square" by use of formula
  • Problems, including graphing
  • "Remainder Theorem" for solving
  • Probability - development of "Tree diagram" and problem solving
  • Functions and Relations, including composite functions, Sets and Venn Diagrams
  • Problem Solving.

Assignments:

Much more emphasis is now placed on the completion of larger, written assignments. Exercises in multiple choice examinations given.

YEAR 10

5 periods per week

Text ST(P) Book 5A

Objectives:

For those who have shown ability, this year we complete the course of studies leading to selected students attempting "O" levels at the end of the year. A good pass at these external examinations permits those students to attempt "A/O" (alternate "O" level) Maths in the following year.

To cover a large amount of the syllabus leading to the completion of IGCSE the following year, and giving a good background to many various Maths topics.

Course Content:

Algebra:

  • Revision of quadratics - graphing and problem solving
  • Probability, especially tree diagram development
  • Functions and relations
  • Groups and operatives -closure
  • identity elements
  • inverse elements
  • associative law
  • Vector geometry
  • Area and volume problems.
  • Introduction to calculus-Differentiation

Assignments:

Many longer assignments, designed to extend each student, and to develop their confidence in their mathematical abilities.

YEAR 11

5 periods per week

Two groups in Mathematics:

1. The students with insufficient background to follow the A/O course - those who have not gained a A pass at IGCSE - work towards taking the IGCSE examination at the end of the school year. They will continue the course outlined for Year 10.

2.Those who have passed the IGCSE examination, or equivalent, will follow the A/O Pure Mathematics Course as set by London University's Assessment Council. The syllabus is available on request.

Text

Pure Mathematics Book 1 Blackhouse and Houldsworth.