KS4 Transition Evening 2018 - Mathematics

Mathematics GCSE Requirements Miss S Butler Head of Mathematics sbutler@westhillschool.co.uk

There is only one mathematics qualification available at GCSE

• Two tiers – Foundation and Higher • The new GCSE 9-1 specification is more challenging than in the past.

The New GCSE..... • There are three papers each lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes. • Paper 1 is non-calculator and papers 2 and 3 are calculator papers.

The new specification GCSE quotes five main areas of mathematics….

Number – numeracy, fractions, decimals, percentages.

Algebra – generalising situations by using formulae; expressions, equations.

Geometry and Measures – area/perimeter; measure; transformations Statistics and Probability – Probability; collecting and representing data.

Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change

The New GCSE…….

Foundation (Grades 1-5) • Number 25% • Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change 25% • Algebra 20% • Statistics and Probability 15% • Geometry and Measures 15%

Higher (Grades 4-9) • Number 15% • Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change 20% • Algebra 30% • Statistics and Probability 15% • Geometry and Measures 20%

The New GCSE.....

GCSE Examiner’s reports

On all papers, the quality of arithmetic gave cause for concern.

Poor arithmetic results in the loss of too many marks, and more time spent by centres on basic arithmetic skills would be time well spent.

On non-calculator papers it is the standard of basic arithmetic that loses marks through the paper. And this concern is at all levels of ability.

Their comprehension of mathematics often outstrips their numerical ability.

Decisions on calculator use Generally, arithmetic errors caused problems for some students who engaged with a question but decided not to use a calculator.

Some students didn’t use/show the working from their calculator.

PIXL Maths and TT APPs • All boys have been given instructions by their class teachers how to download and login to this app.

• It’s amazing and it’s free!

• Just google PIXL maths app and it is the first search result. It can be used on a desktop or mobile device.

West Hill VLE

What do the therapy PowerPoints/Videos offer: • Tuition • Practice questions • Answers

MyMaths Login: westhill Password:mode

Each student has their own individual second tier log in – if they don’t know it they need to ask their class teacher.

Expectations • The maths syllabus has the most content of any GCSE so every lesson counts.

• Concentration, maturity, a good work ethic and commitment.

• Homework – completing on time and acting on feedback.

• Taking responsibility for their own learningaddressing any areas they are weak in – INDEPENDENCE!

I can’t, I won’t, I don’t do maths…………..

Unfortunately, many pupils hold negative attitudes about mathematics, and pupils’ attitudes tend to worsen as they get older. In a recent EEF survey, the proportion of pupils who reported that they do not like learning maths was 17% at Year 5 and 48% at Year 9.

A really straightforward message….

Everyone around the student needs to reinforce…

I cannot do this…..YET …but with help and support you will be able to.

How can you help as parents?

• Check that your son has completed homework.

• Check exercise books and look at teacher feedback – Use the maths APP sheets to target weak areas and extend their learning.

Unit 1 Fractions, Decimals, Factors &Multiples Objective Core

I can find the HCF and LCM of two or more numbers with, or without, prime factorisation I can convert recurring decimals to fractions and fractions to recurring decimals Challenge I can prove how to convert a recurring decimal to a fraction I can convert a recurring decimal in an algebra format 0.0ġ where g is recurring

R

A

G

How can you help as parents?

• Revision – boys need to be revising now!

• If they have not already done so, boys need to purchase a revision guide.

• One form time a week is being used to improve their numeracy skills.

Resources • Mymaths.co.uk – online lessons and activities.

• The VLE • PiXL maths and TT Apps • Revision guides…….

• Teachers!

Item

ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT:

School Price

Casio FX85GT Plus Scientific Calculator

£8.00

Maths Equipment pack

£1.00

RECOMMENDED REVISION GUIDE: Collins AQA GCSE Revision and Practice book.

Higher / Foundation (Please indicate which book(s) you require)

£4.00

REVISION RESOURCES: The Mathematical Association GCSE Revision cards. £8.00

Higher / Foundation (Please indicate which you require) Pocket Poster GCSE Revision book - Higher / Foundation (Please indicate which you require)

£3.30