Mathematics
Mathematics is the means of looking at the patterns that make up our world and the intricate and beautiful ways in which they are constructed and realised. Numeracy is the means of making that knowledge useful.
Mathematics contributes to the school curriculum by developing pupils’ abilities to calculate; to reason logically, algebraically, and geometrically; to solve problems and to handle data. Mathematics is important for pupils in many other areas of study, particularly Science and Technology. It is also important in everyday living, in many forms of employment, and in public decision-making. As a subject in its own right, Mathematics presents frequent opportunities for creativity, and can stimulate moments of pleasure and wonder when a problem is solved for the first time, or a more elegant solution to a problem is discovered, or when hidden connections suddenly manifest.
It enables pupils to build a secure framework of mathematical reasoning, which they can use and apply with confidence. The power of mathematical reasoning lies in its use of precise and concise forms of language, symbolism and representation to reveal and explore general relationships. These mathematical forms are widely used for modelling situations; a trend accelerated by computational technologies.
The subject transcends cultural boundaries and its importance is universally recognised. Mathematics helps us to understand and change the world.
Mathematics is, of course, a compulsory subject for all pupils throughout their time at Repton.
The aims of the curriculum are the same for all pupils and are to enable pupils to:
• 1. Develop their mathematical knowledge and oral, written and practical skills in a way which encourages confidence and provides satisfaction and enjoyment;
• 2. Read mathematics, and write and talk about the subject in a variety of ways;
• 3. Develop a feel for number, carry out calculations and understand the significance of the results obtained;
• 4. Apply mathematics in everyday situations and develop an understanding of the part which mathematics plays in the world around them;
• 5. Solve problems, present the solutions clearly, check and interpret the results;
• 6. Develop an understanding of mathematical principles;
• 7. Recognise when and how a situation may be represented mathematically, identify and interpret relevant factors and, where necessary, select an appropriate mathematical method to solve the problem;
• 8. Use mathematics as a means of communication with emphasis on the use of clear expression;
• 9. Develop an ability to apply mathematics in other subjects, particularly science and technology;
• 10. Develop the abilities to reason logically, to classify, to generalise and to prove;
• 11. Appreciate patterns and relationships in mathematics;
• 12. Produce and appreciate imaginative and creative work arising from mathematical ideas;
• 13. Develop their mathematical abilities by considering problems and conducting individual and co-operative enquiry and experiment, including extended pieces of work of a practical and investigative kind;
• 14. Appreciate the interdependence of different branches of mathematics;
• 15. Acquire a foundation appropriate to their further study of mathematics and of other disciplines.
Pupils will get the chance to do coursework amounting to 20% of the final mark at IGCSE. Especially able pupils may get a chance to take Maths a year early, before going on to do Additional IGCSE Mathematics.