Year 7 Mathematics

Brief summary of the syllabus:

All pupils will initially follow a scheme based on book seven of the Essential Mathematics series, which provides the opportunity for all children to reach a common, high standard in the foundations of mathematical learning, even though they come from a range of primary schools where the emphasis placed on the different branches of the subject varies. Where appropriate, this will be supplemented by materials from the SMP 11-16 booklet scheme, to provide extension or supporting work. Accelerated learning starts in the Spring Term when pupils begin book eight of the Essential Mathematics series.

The scheme has at its core class-taught lessons on the topics which form the foundations of further study. Throughout year 7, pupils are set pieces of investigative work which give them the opportunity to apply the concepts they have learned to problem-solving. Some of this work also provides an opportunity to explore uses of ICT within Mathematics.

What skills/attributes are being developed and examined?

As well as providing the tools for further study of Mathematics and for dealing with the mathematical situations which arise in other areas of study, we would seek to instil in pupils an investigative and enquiring approach which will enable them to tackle new concepts and unfamiliar problems effectively. We also emphasise the importance of mental recall and calculations by regular practice.

What can parents expect to see in class work and homework specifically?

Both in homework and class work, parents may expect to see a wide variety of work, ranging from traditional "question and answer" to extended pieces of open-ended work with strong emphasis placed on method and approach rather than simply on right or wrong answers.

What can parents do to help in this subject at this stage?

Parental help with the teaching and learning of the rudimentary elements of mathematics (eg tables, accurate use of instruments, arithmetic, etc) is invaluable. However, as the child's mathematical development continues, we would urge parents to contribute to the process described above, and to give children hints and pointers which will allow them to develop their own understanding, rather than providing them with rigid rules and procedures.

^ Top

Setting and Course Schedule:

During the first half-term, all boys will follow a common syllabus working in their form groups. Following a summary test in October, they will be placed into sets according to their performance. For the remainder of the first term, the sets will each work at the most appropriate rate for the ability of the boys, progressing through selected chapters in book seven. There will be a second summary test at the start of the Spring Term.

During the remainder of Year 7, pupils will work from the Essential Mathematics book eight. There are tests at specific points in the textbook. Finally there will be two end-of-year examinations, one testing the work specifically covered during the year, and the other in the form of the National Curriculum key stage tests to give an indication of the level attained.

There are regular Mental Arithmetic tests and also the opportunity to use ICT (LOGO) from January onwards.

^ Top

Tests and Setting:

The following provides a rough guide to Year 7 tests:

The first major set change takes place after the first summary examination in October. Thereafter, set changes, if necessary, will take place after each half-term test. This will be based on the average test result as well as teacher judgement. Setting for Year 8 will be based on the average of the four half-term tests and the final end-of-year examination (this examination has higher weighting). Teacher judgement is exercised in borderline cases. The National Curriculum interim examination does not play a part in the setting arrangement.

Please note that if a boy misses a test due to holiday, he will not be given the opportunity to re-sit the test. If absence is due to other reasons the test will be taken in an after-school session on a date determined by the department.

^ Top

Revision:

In order to revise effectively for tests in Mathematics, it is important to ensure that each new piece of work studied is recorded, but even more important to practise examples which will indicate whether or not the techniques and their applications have been grasped. Teachers will provide full notes to accompany each new topic, and there is a wealth of exercises in each chapter for practice.

Good performance in Mathematics tests clearly relies on using techniques efficiently to produce correct solutions. However, chances of success are always enhanced by:

• having a complete and accurate set of class notes and worked examples
• having the necessary equipment, eg calculator, protractor, ruler and compasses
• laying work out neatly and logically
• drawing neat and clearly labelled diagrams
• showing working
• pacing to avoid rushing
• careful checking
• efficient and correct usage of calculator

^ Top

Working towards Target National Curriculum Levels:

In the Autumn term, each pupil and his parents will be made aware of a target National Curriculum Level which he should be aiming to achieve by the end of the academic year. Progress towards this target will be reviewed at the end of each half-term and in the mid-year review of pupil progress, which is reported home in the Spring term. The overall level obtained in the interim National Curriculum test in July will then form the basis of his end of year 8 target. The criteria for each National Curriculum Level in Mathematics can be read here.

^ Top