Mathematics

Aims and Philosophy

Mathematics is a compulsory subject to GCSE and our aims are that at the end of his/her mathematical education at Plymouth College, each pupil will be able to:

  1. Perform the mathematical skills needed in his/her chosen career or to be prepared for higher mathematical education.
  2. Understand the mathematics likely to be encountered in daily adult life.
  3. Approach problems systematically and identify patterns.
  4. Reason clearly and logically.
  5. Experience enjoyment of his/her mathematical achievements.

  6. Obtain his/her best possible results at GCSE and at AS/A level or IB if attempted.

Course Content

In Year 7, pupils are taught in their mixed ability tutor groups. It is important that they have confidence in the subject and begin to take more responsibility for their learning. We specifically seek to build on their grasp of Number and to bridge the gap to Algebra. Setting begins in Year 8 but all pupils progress at different rates and these decisions are constantly under review. All pupils sit two written exams at the end of Year 11 as part of the Edexcel Linear Scheme and there is no longer any GCSE maths coursework. The vast majority will be entered at Higher Level and IGCSE has been introduced for the top two sets.

Sixth Formers follow the OCR(MEI) syllabus and, in recent years, pupils have studied from 3 to 18 modules each, with qualifications ranging from an AS level to an Additional Qualification in Advanced GCE Further Mathematics (a total of 3 A levels!). Mathematics is a popular subject at Plymouth College, with almost 50% of the current Lower Sixth choosing the course. It is also a compulsory part of the school's IB program with three courses of differing levels on offer.

Resources

The department is housed in six classrooms in the main building, with easy access to the library and to the adjacent computer suite. There is an additional teaching room near the Sixth Form Centre and the department benefits from six interactive white-boards.

Examination Results 2009

GCSE:                        Grade A* or A - 44%           Pass Rate - 96% (85 cands.)      

A LEVEL:      

Mathematics              Grade A* or B - 52%             Pass Rate - 97% (31 cands.)

Further Maths            Grade A* or B - 33%             Pass Rate - 89% (9 cands.)