GCSE Mathematics

Maths Specification

Course overview

Mathematics is a core subject studied by all students during Key Stage 4.  A grade 4 is a standard pass, while a grade 5 is regarded as a strong pass and is required for access to many A Level courses.

All students follow the Edexcel GCSE Mathematics specification.  Students are entered for either Foundation or Higher tier, based on prior attainment and ongoing assessment throughout the course.  Tier of entry is reviewed regularly to ensure students are entered for the pathway that best supports their success.

Students who achieve a grade 7 or above may be offered the oppportunity to sit the AQA Level 2 Certificate in Further Mathematics alongside their GCSE Mathematics studies.

Course content

The content for the Edexcel GCSE Mathematics course is divided as follows:

• Algebra – 30%
• Geometry and Measures – 20%
• Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change – 20%
• Number – 15%
• Statistics and Probability – 15%

There is a strong emphasis on algebra and ratio, proportion, and rates of change, with increasing focus on problem-solving and mathematical reasoning.

Key aims of the course

• Develop fluent knowledge, skills, and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts
• Acquire, select, and apply mathematical techniques to solve problems
• Reason mathematically, make deductions and inferences, and draw conclusions
• Comprehend, interpret, and communicate mathematical information in a variety of forms

Exam board and Exam Structure

You will be assessed across 3 papers, either Foundation or Higher, all equally weighted and all of 1 ½ hours in length.  Foundation tier: grades 1 to 5 ad Higher tier; grades 4 to 9 (grade 3 allowed).  One of these papers will be an assessment of your non-calculator skills, whilst the other two papers will be calculator papers.  All papers will be sat at the end of the course in Year 11.