MATHS GCSE

Exam Board: Edexcel

Specification Code: 1MA1

Course Overview

Mathematics is a core subject which all pupils will study at least to the end of KS4. As well as enabling pupils to develop key skills in numeracy, logical thinking and analysis, GCSE Mathematics is an essential foundation for further study in a wide range of other subjects from humanities through ICT to the sciences and engineering; and along with GCSE English, it is a necessary qualification for entry into university degree courses as well as a broad spectrum of professions.

In studying GCSE Mathematics, pupils will:

• 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 appropriate to the information and context

The GCSE Course

Statutory changes to the programme of study dictate that the course will be examined in one session at the end of Key Stage 4. A linear programme will be followed, with the course content examined across three papers and the new numerical grading system (1-9) being applied.

Examination

Exams are at the end of Year 11. All pupils will complete all 3 papers at the same tier.

Paper 1: Non – Calculator, Paper 2 & 3 Calculator. Each 1 hour and 30 minutes, and 80 marks per paper. There are two tiers of entry for each of the written examinations, Foundation tier (grades 1-5) and Higher tier (grades 4-9). A pupil will be entered for the Foundation tier only where it is believed they are unlikely to achieve a grade 5 on the Higher tier paper. There is no coursework in GCSE Mathematics.