Mathematics

Mathematics is a tool for Engineering, Natural Sciences and Social Sciences whilst also being an Art and an international language. An understanding of the different aspects of Mathematics and the skills that this subject brings are the keys to success in many areas of the modern world. The awe and wonder of mathematical concepts such as infinity and why you can’t square root a negative number makes Mathematics a fascinating subject and one that should stretch the mind and develop an inquisitiveness about the everyday world in which we live.

What you will study

We aim to develop the ability to think and communicate mathematically: precisely, logically and creatively. We seek to promote positive attitudes to Mathematics, including confidence, enjoyment and perseverance, together with an awareness of Mathematics both as a subject in its own right and in relation to other disciplines. We aim to develop in each girl: • an understanding of and respect for Mathematics • an appreciation of the place of Mathematics in society • a high degree of skill in routine mathematical manipulation • the capacity to engage in problem solving with confidence • the capacity to apply Mathematics to real-life situations

To be successful, you need an open and enquiring mind and must be prepared to think and develop an ability to answer questions such as: • Will this bus get me there in time? • What is Pythagoras’ Theorem and how is it used? • Can you prove that the sum of the angles in a triangle adds up to 180°? This is a linear course which includes topics which will help to prepare you for study in A Level Mathematics. At the same time the course provides accessible topics for girls who find Mathematics a more demanding subject. Topics covered will include: Number; Ratio; Proportion and Rates of Change; Algebra; Geometry and Measures; Statistics and Probability. Topics will be taught in such a way as to develop skills in problem solving and application of mathematical techniques.

How you will be assessed

There is no coursework and assessment is based upon the results of three examination papers. Each paper is worth an equal proportion of the final assessment and the first paper is a noncalculator paper.

Examination Board – Edexcel GCSE