Departments

Maths

Welcome to Ruffwood Maths Site

In KS4

All pupils study mathematics to GCSE level.

The GCSE course followed is Edexcel GCSE linear mathematics.

This course exists in two tiers:

Foundation GCSE (which covers grades G to C inclusive)
Higher GCSE (which covers grades D to A* inclusive)

Both tiers cover topics on Number, Algebra, Shape Space and Measures and Handling Data. Pupils are entered for the examination, which best matches their abilities.

In addition to this, all pupils take the ALAN (adult literacy and numeracy) tests plus all pupils have the opportunity to complete an additional GCSE in Statistics* at the Foundation Level.

*This course requires the completion of a single piece of coursework worth 20% of the overall award.

In KS3

In KS3 we are promoting the use of thinking skills. Alongside the National Curriculum our pupils in years 7 and 8 follow a course in Cognitive Acceleration (CAME), which develops their understanding and ability to use mathematical concepts.

In May of Year 9 all pupils sit the end of key stage assessments (SATs).

Useful Equipment

All pupils need a pen and pencil as basic requirements for any mathematics lesson. In addition to this, pupils require a calculator of their own for examination purposes.

It is also helpful for pupils to have a basic geometry set and to be familiar with its use.

Useful Websites

www.counton.org
www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/
www.mathslesson.co.uk
www.logo.com/resources/IKS/subjects.htm
www.i-t-teacher.freeserve.co.uk/mrmaths.html
www.gcse.com/Maths/pre.htm
www.maths-help.co.uk
www.mathsnet.net
www.gcsemaths.fsnet.co.uk
www.bbc.co.uk/schools/ks3bitesize/
www.mathsisfun.com

Supporting your child at home

Top tips to help your child with their maths in secondary school:

Help them learn multiplication tables (Times tables)
Know and use a written method for multiplying numbers
Know and use a written method for dividing numbers
Practice mental skills, e.g. working out the cost of the shopping as you go around the supermarket or shop
Please never say “I was rubbish at maths”
Encourage them to try, and to show or explain their method
Set time aside for them to do their homework
Contact us if you have any questions or worries

Maths Podcasts

Area and Perimeter (mp3)
Chemical Equations (mp3)
Circles and Cylinders (mp3)
Cones, Spheres and Arcs (mp3)
Environment (mp3)
Factors Affecting Reactions (mp3)
Harber Processes (mp3)
Linear Expressions and Equations (mp3)
Place Value (mp3)
Radiation (mp3)
Ratio and Properties of Numbers (mp3)
Surds, Bounds and Proportion (mp3)
Volume and Surface Area (mp3)
Waves (mp3)

Ruffwood School