KS4 COURSE OVERVIEW

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT: DR C WRIGHT

A.Q.A. MATHEMATICS SPECIFICATION B

The specification content of all GCSE mathematics syllabuses is determined by National Curriculum statements of attainment and programmes of study; there are four attainment targets:

Ma1	Using and Applying Mathamatics
Ma2	Number and Algebra
Ma3	Shape and Space
Ma4	Data Handling

All students will follow Specification B (Modular).

Higher level students may also be given the chance to take an additional GCSE in Statistics – see below for more information.

GCSE Mathematics Specification B

Specification B is modular and covers all three tiers. It is provided to give maximum flexibility and to suit different teaching programmes. Modules 1-4 can be taken in any order and at different tiers. Module 5 is the unifying module and must be taken in the final examination series. This is to meet the QCA requirement that at least 50% of the qualification is externally assessed at the end of the course.

• Module 1 - Written Paper 1 assesses Ma4 (Data Handling) and represents 11% of the total assessment.

• Module 2 - Ma4 Coursework task - exactly the same requirements as Specification A, with a weighting of 10% for final assessment.

• Module 3 - Written Paper 2 assesses mainly the number part of Ma2 (Number and Algebra) with a weighting of 19% for final assessment.

• Module 4 - Ma1 Coursework task - exactly the same requirements as Specification A with a weighting of 10% for final assessment.

• Module 5 - Consists of two written papers - Paper 3 (non-calculator) and Paper 4 (calculator) with a weighting of 50% for final assessment, 25% on each paper.

The target tiers for each set will be determined once the results at Key Stage 3 and the number and composition of sets are known. The precise tier of entry will not be finalised until the Spring Term of 2007.

NOTE – It is possible for students to re-take each module once, but Governors’ policy is that the school will only pay for the first entry. No additional entries will be made unless the relevant fee has been received.

GCSE Statistics Specification A

This optional course will be offered as an additional GCSE to higher level students taking Mathematics Specification B There is considerable overlap between the two courses and these students will be offered the opportunity to obtain 2 GCSE qualifications by the end of Year 11.