MATHEMATICS   (EDEXCEL)

The GCSE mathematics syllabus covers the content of the National Curriculum specification for mathematics in three strands:
· Number and algebra
· Shape and space
· Handling data

Girls follow a modular syllabus, with two examination sessions in the Upper Transit year and a final examination in the Shell year. There are no longer any coursework tasks to be completed for mathematics, the assessment is by examination only. The first module is “Handling data” which covers a number of topics in statistics and probability, and this is taken in the Hilary term of the Upper Transit year. The second covers topics from the other two strands, and is taken at the end of the Upper Transit year. The final examination covers the remaining topics from the “Shape and space” and “Number and algebra” strands and is taken at the end of the Shell year.

The percentages for which each module examination contributes to the final mark are:
· Handling data     20%
· Number and algebra, shape and space, 1 30%
· Number and algebra, shape and space, 2 50%

There are now only two tiers of entry for GCSE Mathematics, Foundation and Higher.  It is expected that most, if not all, girls will be entered for the Higher Tier examinations. There are two teaching groups for mathematics. Both groups will follow a scheme of work which covers the higher scheme content and will be entered for the Higher Tier examinations in the Upper Transit year. Only if there is doubt about a girl’s ability to cope successfully with the Higher Tier examination will she be entered for the Foundation Tier in the Shell examination.

The decision on which teaching group is most suitable for each girl is made using the results of the Lower Transit examinations in combination with staff assessment of the potential of the pupil, and is reviewed during the Lower Transit year. Occasionally, further changes are made in later years where these will help girls achieve more.

Mr M Fraser BSc., BA, MSc., PGCE