Key Stage 4 Mathematics

Pupil’s KS2 and KS3 results are used to determine sets throughout KS4 (GCSE). There are three 1-hour lessons per week in Years 10 and 11 where pupils follow either the Higher or the Foundation GCSE Mathematics course according to their ability level.

The Higher course gives pupils the opportunity of obtaining a grade of A*, A, B, C or D at GCSE.

In the Foundation course pupils can achieve a grade of C, D, E, F or G at GCSE.

The exam board Edexcel (Specification B) is used by all pupils. The Edexcel series of books designed for the 2 tier Modular GCSE course are used as a standard resource throughout Years 10 and 11 and are supported by a substantial range of engaging and interactive resources.

Target grades for each pupil, based on their KS3 results, are set at the beginning of Year 10. Modular examinations take place in March and June of Year 10 and in June of Year 11. The 1 hour paper taken in June of Year 10 is worth 30% of the overall GCSE grade and is split into Section A (calculator) and Section B (non calculator). Similarly, there is paper taken in November of Year 10 which is worth 20% of the final GCSE grade. In June of Year 11 there are two separate papers which pupils sit (calculator and non calculator) each worth 25%. This exam is a 1 hour exam for Foundation and 1 hour 10 minute exam for Higher. Internal school assessment is made through tests after (approximately) every 3 topics are covered and movement between sets can occur if targets are being under or over achieved.

For examples of topics covered throughout Higher or Foundation courses see the Edexcel website at www.edexcel.org.uk