Assessment within the Mathematics Department
Mathematics is a core subject, taught throughout the school at both KS3 and KS4. At TVA Mathematics is delivered through three 75 minute periods each week. The two stages within Secondary School Key Stage 3 (11 to 14) and Key Stage 4 (14 to 16) follow a similar pattern for Assessment:
Formative Assessment click to expand
Throughout both KS3 and KS4, we use Assessment for learning on a day-to-day basis. This involves making learning objectives explicit, sharing these with pupils and gaining feedback through observation and questioning. Peer, self and teacher assessment may be used in lessons to ensure pupils are engaged in learning. On a longer term basis, “assessment of pupil performance” materials give an insight into pupils understanding of specific mathematical processes.
Summative Assessment click to expand
Periodic assessment of learning includes using regular 10 minute module tests (in KS3) and end of module reviews (KS4) throughout the year to give a broader view of progress and support teacher assessment using national standards. These levels will be reported to parents on a periodic basis and will also help target the curriculum for individual pupils.
Key Stage 3 – Course Summary click to expand
Teaching will follow the National Framework (KS3) and uses the Oxford Maths Links Resource’s as a basis.
Formal recognition of pupils’ achievement will be via end of year examinations. In the near future these will continue to be SAT tests within one of four tiers at levels 3-5, 4-6, 5-7, 6-8, comprising two examination papers, calculator and non-calculator and a mental arithmetic test. Although these results will not be reported directly to the government a teacher assessed level, using this along with other data, will be.
Sets 1 to 4 start their G.C.S.E. in Year 9, this should enable pupils to finish their G.C.S.E in The November of Year 11.
Key Stage 4 – Course Summary click to expand
Syllabus: Edexcel GCSE Mathematics (Linear)
Teaching will follow the National Framework (KS4) and uses the Collins New GCSE Mathematics, Edexcel Linear as a core resource to deliver the Edexcel GCSE Mathematics (Linear) syllabus.
Formal assessment consists of two examinations (one calculator, one non-calculator) taken at the end of the course at a time dependent upon level and ability within one of two tiers, higher (grades A* to D) and foundation (grades C to G).
Some pupils may be entered early for their GCSE examination and given an opportunity to take additional qualifications in mathematics including Further Mathematics and Statistics in year 11.
From 2010 onwards there will also be an opportunity for pupils to take a Functional Mathematics qualification at level 1 or 2 in order to gain an additional qualification. (please note that the functional mathematics level 2 is essential in order to pass any level 2 diplomas)