Mathematics
Key Stage 3 Mathematics Curriculum Intent
Our core purpose at Key Stage 3 is to deliver an engaging and challenging curriculum through outstanding teaching and learning through the mathematics mastery programme. We aim to enable all learners to enjoy and succeed in mathematics. We want learners to think about mathematics beyond what is tested in the national examinations and to be equipped with an understanding of mathematics that will be relevant and useful in both their future studies and in the world of work. Our mastery programme is designed on principles to provide learners with a deep conceptual understanding of mathematical principles, the ability to confidently communicate in precise mathematical language, while becoming mathematical thinkers. The programme can be delivered with confidence in the knowledge that if a student understands the core principles, they will be able to remember more and do more mathematics, in whatever context they encounter it. Our aim is to build a new culture of deeper understanding, confidence and competence in mathematics. A culture that produces strong, secure learning and real progress. No matter what the pupils' starting points, we help them to achieve excellence.
Mathematics is a creative and highly interconnected discipline that has been developed over centuries, providing the solution to some of history’s most intriguing problems. It is essential to everyday life, critical to science, technology and engineering, and necessary for financial literacy and most forms of employment. A high-quality mathematics education therefore provides a foundation for understanding the world, the ability to reason mathematically, an appreciation of the beauty and power of mathematics, and a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject. The mathematics curriculum at Meopham School aims to develop character by ensuring that all pupils:
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Become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics, including through varied and frequent practice with increasingly complex problems over time, so that pupils develop conceptual understanding and the ability to recall and apply knowledge rapidly and accurately.
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Reason mathematically by following a line of enquiry, conjecturing relationships and generalisations, and developing an argument, justification or proof using mathematical language.
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Can solve problems by applying their mathematics to a variety of routine and non-routine problems with increasing sophistication, including breaking down problems into a series of simpler steps and persevering in seeking solutions.
In Mathematics pupils are able to move fluently between representations of mathematical ideas throughout the year. The scheme of work for Key Stage 3 is organised into distinct domains, where pupils will build on Key Stage 2 knowledge and skills and connections across mathematical ideas to develop fluency, mathematical reasoning and competence in solving increasingly sophisticated problems. They will also have opportunities to apply their mathematical knowledge in science, geography, computing and other subjects. The sequencing of the curriculum enables students to build on their knowledge and skills towards agreed end points.
Decisions about progression will be based on the security of pupils’ understanding and their readiness to progress to the next stage. Pupils who grasp concepts rapidly will be challenged by being offered rich and sophisticated problems before any acceleration through new content in preparation for Key Stage 4. Those who are not sufficiently fluent will consolidate their understanding, including through additional practice, before moving on.
Due to the nature of the mastery programme, lessons will give students a real opportunity to think logically, solve problems, work in groups, make connections, build confidence, develop their oracy skills and challenge their way of thinking. There will be a real “buzz” in the air as you walk into a Key Stage 3 maths lesson and pupils will be given every opportunity to develop their resourcefulness, resilience, reciprocity and reflectiveness.
Key Stage 3 - Maths Overview
Useful links
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/