GCSE Mathematics - Key Stage 4

What will students do in this subject?

You will follow a course matched to your ability.  GCSE Mathematics has a Foundation tier (grades 1­5) and a Higher tier (grades 4­ - 9). 

Skills required:   

- Use and apply standard techniques and methods 
- Reason, interpret and communicate mathematically 
- Solve problems within mathematics and in other contexts 

The course content

Number (15%­ - 25%) 
Structure and calculation 
Fractions, decimals and percentages 
Measures and accuracy 

Ratio, proportion and rates of change (20%­ - 25%) 

Algebra (20%­ - 30%) 
Notation, vocabulary and manipulation 
Graphs 
Solving equations and inequalities 

Statistics and probability (15%) 

Geometry and measures (20%­ - 25%) 
Properties and constructions 
Mensuration and calculation 
Vectors

Any other relevant information? GCSE Mathematics is assessed through three written examination papers at either Foundation tier or Higher tier.  All papers are sat in the summer of Year 11. Each paper lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes.  Paper 2 is a non­-calculator and Papers 1 and 3 are calculator. The results will be graded under the new 1­ to 9 system.   

What might the subject lead into?

A good qualification in GCSE Mathematics is an essential entry requirement for many post­16 colleges and sixth­ form centres. Successful completion of GCSE. Mathematics will allow progression to A Level Mathematics and other courses with a significant mathematical content, such as Biology, Physics, Geography and Business Studies. GCSE Mathematics at grade 5 or above is required by most universities for further study on the majority of their courses. Mathematicians are valued by employers across a variety of job sectors. Careers include accountancy, banking, retail, computing, teaching, engineering and medicine.