In the mathematics department at Brockington College, we believe that is it important for students to learn about and understand mathematical concepts and are not just taught rote procedures.
Our Key Stage 3 (years 7-9) curriculum focuses on the most important concepts in: number and algebra, geometry and measure, and data handling and probability. We use evidence based practices to ensure that students can make sense of these concepts and how these link together to create a bigger picture. As part of this, we use manipulatives and visual aids where appropriate to support all students in understanding mathematical ideas, and challenging questions to prompt deeper thought about these ideas rather than simply accelerating through to new content. There is also a clear and intentional focus on the use of precise mathematical terminology to ensure that all students can confidently articulate their understanding of mathematical concepts. In years 7 and 8, students are taught in mixed attainment classes – in year 7 this is in form groups to aid transition from primary school. In year 9, students are put into set groups according to their attainment in year 7 and 8, and whilst all study the same material, this allows teaching staff to tailor this to ensure all students are well prepared to start their GCSE.
At Key Stage 4 (years 10-11) we have three pathways based on how well students have made sense of ideas at Key Stage 3. Our foundation pathway ensures those that need it have the chance to revisit and secure key ideas within the subject. Our higher pathway is designed to provide appropriate stretch for those pupils who show they are capable of achieving grades 5, 6 and 7 at GCSE whilst still leaving room for mastery of key foundational ideas. Our higher+ pathway aims to extend mathematical learning well beyond that of Key Stage 3 to support those who are targeted at grade 7, 8 and 9 and are likely to study A – Level mathematics. All of our pathways include specially designed ‘problem solving’ units which serve as a chance to revisit key content and develop students’ ability to apply their mathematics to a variety of contexts. At the end of the two years, all students will sit a GCSE mathematics qualification at either foundation or higher tier with the AQA exam board. The highest attaining studens may also be offered the chance to study the level 2 further mathematics qualification as an extra-curricular programme.
Programmes of study
Key Stage 3
| Year 7 | Year 8 | Year 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Positive integer arithmetic | Fractions and decimals | Percentages |
| Measures | Angle calculations | Probability |
| Properties of integers | Algebraic expressions | Sequences |
| Shape properties | Shape calculations | Analysing data |
| Place value and decimals | Factors and algebra | Inequalities |
| Negative arithmetic | Proportional reasoning | Circle measure |
| Fractions | Equations | Algebra and straight line graphs |
| Data representation | Formulae and graphs | Transformations |
| Scale and similarity |
Key Stage 4
| Foundation | Higher | Higher+ |
|---|---|---|
| Measures | Understanding proportion | Rounding, estimation and the limits of accuracy |
| Number and operation | Polygons | Understanding Proportion |
| Expressions and formulae | Expressions and formulae | Transformations and vectors |
| Understanding proportion | Understanding products | Expressions and formulae |
| Single event probability | Raw numerical data | Percentages |
| Categorical data | Units, scales and proportions | Linear graphs |
| Units, scales and proportion | Rounding, estimation and the limits of accuracy | Understanding products |
| Accurate and inaccurate diagrams | Sequences | Right angled Pythagoras and trigonometry |
| Financial calculation | Percentages | Numerical data |
| Equations, inequalities and identities | Linear graphs | Sequences |
| Place value, rounding and estimation | Transformations and vectors | Mensuration |
| Sequences | Probability | Rational and irrational numbers |
| Percentages | Polyhedra | Equations, inequalities and identities |
| Triangles | Equations, inequalities and identities | Non-linear graphs |
| Linear graphs | Accurate and inaccurate diagrams | Number problems |
| Transformations and vectors | Algebraic proportion | Probability |
| Understanding products | Number problems | Algebraic proportion |
| Sampling and data collection | Iterative methods | Iterative methods |
| Non-linear graphs | Curved shapes | Accurate and inaccurate diagrams |
| Polygons | Sampling and data collection | Proportion and graphs |
| Probability of two or more events | Forming equations | Trigonometry in non-right angled triangles |
| Forming equations | Pythagoras and trigonometry | Algebraic problems |
| Polyhedra | Rational and irrational numbers | Graphical problem solving |
| Number problems | Non linear graphs | Iterative processes |
| Graphical problem solving | Grouped numerical data | Coordinate geometry |
| Numerical data | Graphical problem solving | |
| Curved shapes | Iterative processes | |
| Estimates and the limits of accuracy | ||
Staff list
- Mr A Price (Director of Learning for Maths and Numeracy)
- Mr S Elkins (2ic)
- Mr P Bup
- Mr M Downer
- Mr M Gardner
- Mr M Higham
- Mrs A Knapp
- Mr P Mattock
- Mr S M’Nasri
- Mrs H Pirmahomed
- Mrs J Snape
- Ms K Lay (Small Group Intervention)
- Mrs A Whetton (HTLA)
Useful links
In mathematics, we use two main websites to help facilitate learning online. These are Corbett Maths and www.ttrockstars.com. All students have access to both of these websites, if you need help accessing them, please contact a member of the mathematics team.