Mathematics

 

Intent

We have developed our curriculum to allow all our students, regardless of their background, to expand their natural ability as problem solvers and develop an understanding of Mathematics beyond the classroom. We want our learners to be confident in their application of mathematics, in all areas of their life.

VIDEO: Learn more about Maths at MHS

 

Learning hours

Knowledge, Understanding and Skills

The KS3 Maths course has been developed to provide students with a strong grounding in the key knowledge and skills that they will need to be successful not only in their GCSE course but also in later life – in further and higher education and employment.

The Year 7 scheme of learning;

Builds on the work done by students during primary school. Has number at the heart of it, with a strong focus on reasoning and problem-solving. Extends higher attaining students by providing challenges to deepen their understanding rather than having them simply rush onto the next topic.

The Year 8 scheme of learning;

Has algebra, ratio and geometry at the heart of it. Extends higher attaining students by providing challenges to deepen their understanding rather than having them simply rush onto the next topic. Provides students with the opportunity to work together as a whole group as they progress through the curriculum. Provides plenty of time to build reasoning and problem-solving elements into the curriculum.

By Year 9 most of the number topics have been covered.

Students now consolidate this work and start to explore higher levels topics. A large part of the algebra foundations are also in place and students now use their knowledge and skills to find solutions to contextual problems as well as developing their understanding of functions through graphs, including linear, quadratic, cubic, reciprocal and exponential graphs. In geometry students will be exposed to Loci and constructions.

5 Year learning journey

Maths learning journey 
 

Specification:

https://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/mathematics/specifications/AQA-8300-SP-2015.PDF

Careers

The logical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills you learn while studying a mathematics are highly valued by employers across many job sectors.

Assessment

Following the completion of each unit (topic), an assessment is completed. This provides an opportunity to determine students’ strengths and areas they need to develop and thus informs our planning.

Students complete a ‘Checkpoint Quiz’ in half terms 1, 3, and 5 this is focused on the knowledge which has been taught up until that point. This allow us to know exactly what are students know and where there are gaps needing to be filled, this is then addressed through either reteaching or revisiting.  

At the end of half terms 2, 4 and 6 students complete an end of term assessment, where students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge to unfamiliar scenarios and answer exam-style questions. These assessments provide an opportunity to determine students’ strengths and areas they need to develop and thus we use this data to

Sparx

Sparx maths log in link
 

Sparx Maths creates an hour’s worth of perfectly tailored practice homework for each student each week driven by your scheme of learning.

The practice is both challenging (to ensure students need to think) and, crucially, achievable (so that students can be successful).

Use of the programme also ensures the practice uses spaced repetition and interleaving to support a change in students’ long term memories.

Sparx is inclusive and can adapt to all students’ current level of expertise. This promotes engagement, confidence and ultimately learning.

Feedback

We provide whole class feedback arising from the end of unit assessment and the misconceptions which have been identified.

Learning beyond the classroom

Enrichment Activities and clubs

UKMT – Junior Maths Challenge https://www.ukmt.org.uk/competitions/solo/junior-mathematical-challenge/archive

The Junior Mathematical Challenge is a 60-minute, multiple-choice challenge which encourages mathematical reasoning, precision of thought, and fluency in using basic mathematical techniques to solve interesting problems. The problems on the Junior Mathematical Challenge are designed to make students think. Most are accessible, yet still challenge those with more experience.

Count on Us Secondary Challenge

The Jack Petchey Count on Us Secondary Challenge is an exciting pan-London maths programme working with secondary schools to engage students in a range of maths activities to challenge, motivate and inspire

Useful websites

Ready for preparation or practice? Sparx maths will meet your personal study needs!

Sparx Maths student log in 
 

Enjoy being creative and solving problems? There’s so much exciting mathematics out there to uncover, challenge yourself and share what you discover with your teacher and peers.

Discover the unusual math of twisted strips of paper - https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/flexagons

Discover maths puzzles, explore their history and practise problem-solving techniques. - https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/maths-puzzles

The Nrich Maths Project: Mathematics resources for children, parents and teachers to enrich learning. - https://nrich.maths.org/

Build quantitative skills in math, science, and computer science with hands-on, interactive lessons.- https://brilliant.org/