Mathematics
Staff
Mrs J Battle (Second in Department)
Mrs K Ronan (Head of Department)
Mr L Tanner (Head of Lower)
Department Information
The aims below describe the Mathematics course at Dwr-y-Felin from Year 7 to Year 11. Some of the aims are measured by the end of module tests, end of year examinations in Years 7, 8, 9 and 10 and GCSE in Year 11; others refer to the attributes, which cannot readily be translated into measurable assessment objectives. All however are essential aims.
The course followed enables pupils to:
- Develop their mathematical knowledge and oral, written and practical skills in a manner, which encourages confidence, enjoyment and perseverance.
- Read mathematics, and write and talk about the subject in a variety of ways.
- Develop a feel for number, carry out calculations and understand the significance of the results obtained.
- Apply mathematics in everyday situations and develop and understanding and appreciation of the part which mathematics plays and has played in the world around them.
- Solve problems, present the solutions clearly, and check and interpret the results.
- Develop an understanding of mathematical principles.
Recognise when and how a solution may be represented mathematically, identify and interpret relevant factors and, where necessary, select an appropriate mathematical method to solve the problem.
- Use mathematics as a means of communication with emphasis on the use of clear expression.
- Develop an ability to apply mathematics in other subjects, particularly science and technology.
- Develop the abilities to reason logically, to classify, to generalise and to prove.
- Develop the skill to investigate mathematical ideas and to test and prove their own hypotheses.
- Acquire a foundation appropriate to their further study of mathematics and of other disciplines.
To achieve these aims we as a department need to provide:
- Lessons, which are guided by clear, appropriate learning objectives that take into account information, gained from an assessment of pupils’ progress.
- Teaching which enables pupils to gain a keen awareness of the objectives of the work which go beyond arriving at correct answers in written exercises.
- Rigorous discussion, which deepens pupils’ understanding of underlying concepts and principles and, together with practice and revision, enable pupils to gain secure knowledge and skills.
- Clear guidance to pupils on how to employ the calculator sensibly and use its facilities efficiently.
- Opportunities to develop pupils’ numeracy skills through use of active (CAN) lessons.
- Opportunities to develop pupils’ problem solving skills through problem solving lessons.