Maths

Welcome to Our KS3 Maths Page!

Mathematics is a core subject, with students attending 4–5 lessons per week. These lessons build a strong foundation in mathematical skills and concepts, preparing students for academic success and real-world applications. The curriculum aligns with the AQA KS3 Framework, structured around five key areas:

1. Number - Develop understanding of number systems and operations.

• Key Areas:
  • Arithmetic with integers, fractions, decimals, and percentages.
  • Ratios, proportion, and scaling.
  • Powers, roots, and standard form.
  • Order of operations (BIDMAS).

2. Algebra - Explore algebra as a tool for solving problems and understanding patterns.

• Key Areas:
  • Expressions, equations, and identities.
  • Simplifying and factorizing.
  • Solving linear equations.
  • Sequences and patterns.
  • Graphs of linear and quadratic functions.

3. Geometry and Measures - Understand shapes, space, and measurements with practical applications.

• Key Areas:
  • Properties of 2D and 3D shapes.
  • Angle rules and geometric reasoning.
  • Perimeter, area, and volume calculations.
  • Constructions and transformations.

4. Probability and Statistics - Learn to collect, analyze, and interpret data while understanding uncertainty.

• Key Areas:
  • Probability concepts.
  • Representing and interpreting data with graphs and charts.
  • Measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode) and range.

5. Ratio, Proportion, and Rates of Change - Develop fluency in proportional reasoning for real-life scenarios.

• Key Areas:
  • Direct and inverse proportion.
  • Solving problems with ratios and scaling.
  • Speed, density, and other rates of change.

Our Teaching Approach

Our maths team is dedicated to supporting and scaffolding each student’s learning journey. By addressing knowledge gaps and building confidence, resilience, and responsibility, we ensure students can access the curriculum at a level that suits their needs.

How We Support Learning:

• Confidence Building: Targeted interventions create an environment where students feel comfortable tackling challenges.
• Resilience Development: Incremental challenges, collaborative activities, and puzzle-based problem-solving help students embrace mistakes as learning opportunities.
• Respect and Responsibility: Students engage in group discussions, value diverse methods, and reflect on their work.

Assessments for Progression

We use various assessments to monitor and support progress:

Induction Baseline:
A gap analysis identifies each student's strengths and areas for development, shaping personalised lesson plans.

AQA Entry Levels (1, 2, and 3):
Designed to build confidence and address foundational gaps, these qualifications support students with missed learning due to attendance issues or home education.

Functional Skills Level 1:
A practical qualification focusing on real-world maths applications like budgeting and data interpretation.

Tools to Support Learning

To keep students engaged, we provide diverse resources, including:

• Worksheets: Stepping stones that build fluency and confidence.
• Online Resources: Interactive platforms like Hit the Button, Maths Box, and Corbettmaths for personalised learning.
• Puzzle Games: Activities such as riddles, logic puzzles, and team challenges to enhance critical thinking.

Encouraging Independent Learning

We empower students to take ownership of their progress by:

• Reflecting on their strengths and areas for growth.
• Engaging with resources independently and consistently.
• Approaching challenges with a growth mindset.

Weekly homework is available on request, and students have access to the school’s Google Drive, which features a home learning page.

Recommended Online Resources

• Corbettmaths
• Maths Genie
• Hit the Button
• Marlon’s Magical Maths Mission

With small class sizes and an adaptive teaching approach, we help students take responsibility for their achievements. Our focus on critical thinking and problem-solving prepares them for their next steps, whether continuing with us in KS4 or transitioning to a new educational setting.

Every student can succeed in mathematics, and we are here to ensure they do!