Mathematics
GCSE (Re-sit Course)
Course Content
GCSE Mathematics covers a wide range of basic mathematical knowledge and skills grouped into five areas:
- Number
- Algebra
- Shape, space and measure
- Data handling
- Using and applying maths.
While studying mathematics students will be expected to:
- Use mathematical skills and knowledge to solve problems
- Use logic and reason to solve problems
- Break down problems into small steps in order to solve them
- Use mathematics to solve problems that might happen in real life
- Learn how to use a calculator to solve problems quickly and effectively.
How it is Taught
Students have four maths lessons a week. Three of the lessons will concentrate on GCSE maths topics as specified in the syllabus. The other lesson will be used to improve functional skills.
Each topic will be explained then questions set to test the students understanding of the lesson. Help is always available for students who find the work difficult.
Entry Requirements
There are two different GCSE courses available:
- GCSE November Re-sit for any student who achieved a D
- GCSE Full Year for students with a D or below
Examination Details
The Full Year GCSE maths exam is a modular examination. Different topics will be tested in a series of exams sat in November, March and June. The overall mark will be a combination of the marks obtained in each of the modular tests.
| Unit 1 | Two 20 minute exams testing Data Handling |
| Unit 2 | Two 30 minute exams testing Number, Algebra and Shape and Space |
| Unit 3 | Two 1 hour exams testing Number, Algebra and Shape and Space |
The November Re-sit exam is a linear examination. All topics are tested in two exam papers each lasting 1.5 hours. One paper allows the use of a calculator, the other does not.
Useful/Common Subject Combinations
GCSE Maths is an important qualification and will complement nearly all subjects run at the College.
Careers and HE Information
When ready to go on to higher education or into employment, students will find that, in most cases, they will be expected to have a grade C or above in GCSE Maths. Nearly all career paths students may want to follow will want to know that they can work with numbers e.g. Primary School Teaching, Computing, Nursing, Business Studies, Engineering, Leisure and Tourism, Retail, Armed Forces and many more.
Other Relevant Information
Students will be expected to provide
- Basic drawing equipment such as pencil, ruler, protractor and compasses
- A scientific Calculator.