Mathematics Department
There are currently eight members of staff in the Mathematics Department, working in eight well-equipped teaching rooms. Each room has its own computer, data projector and wireless access to the School network. Staff are encouraged to use IT in Maths lessons wherever appropriate. Pupils also have access to two fully equipped computer rooms.
Clinics are held every evening, offering help with prep and understanding class notes. Pupils are encouraged to take an interest in Mathematics beyond the syllabus. Stronger pupils participate in the Intermediate and Senior Maths Challenges with highest achieving students forming the Stowe Maths team who compete in Inter School competitions.
Here in the Mathematics Department we aim to ensure that all pupils are challenged to attain their full mathematical potential regardless of their ability, and that they are given the necessary support by their teachers to achieve this.
GCSE
Most Stoics are prepared for the Edexcel Modular GCSE syllabus, while stronger candidates are prepared for the Edexcel Linear GCSE with a view to taking the exam early in November of the Fifth Form.
Assessment
Linear Syllabus
The course is assessed with two papers (one calculator and one non calculator), each 1 hour and 45 minutes in duration.
If the GCSE has been sat early, students then follow the Additional Mathematics syllabus, a bridging course between GCSE and A Level.
Modular Syllabus
The course is assessed in three stages with the difficulty increasing at each stage. This syllabus provides opportunities to develop skills in all four areas of Mathematics: Number, Algebra, Shape and Space and Data Handling. Stoics take the first of these modules at the end of the Fourth Form and complete the final module in the Summer of the Fifth Form.
Unit 1: Data Handling (30%)
June, Fourth Form - 1 hour and 15 minutes (calculator)
Unit 2: Number and Algebra/Shape Space and Measures 1 (30%)
March, Fifth Form - 1 hour and 15 minutes (non calculator)
Unit 3: Number and Algebra/Shape Space and Measure 2 (40%)
June, Fifth Form - 1 hour and 45 minutes (calculator)
All sets will be entered for Higher tier (grade range A* to D) although in some circumstances individual pupils may be entered for Foundation tier (grade range C to F). It is possible for Stoics to re-sit Units 1 and 2 if necessary. If a module is taken for a second time, the better mark is counted.
Pupils are also encouraged to develop an appreciation of Mathematics beyond the GCSE syllabus. They are introduced to a wide range of topics, including some history of Mathematics, through class discussions, problem solving, investigative work and personal research. The top sets are entered into the UKMT Maths Challenges and there are other opportunities for any interested pupils to take part in competitions.
A Level
Mathematics is one of the most useful A Levels, being either necessary or preferred for many degree courses in a variety of subject areas. The skills learnt will be useful for those wishing to study Sciences (laboratory and social), Medicine, Architecture, Economics and essential for those considering courses in Mathematics, Statistics or Engineering. Learning Mathematics is not just about memorising techniques and formulae, it teaches you thinking skills that will last a lifetime. However, the main reason to choose Mathematics in the Sixth Form is because you have enjoyed the subject at GCSE.
Assessment
In the Lower Sixth, students take module Core 1 in January with two further modules in June (Core 2 and either Mechanics 1 or Statistics 1). These 3 modules comprise the AS in Mathematics.
In the Upper Sixth, students take Core 3 in January and two more modules in June (Core 4 and the other applied module). All 6 modules comprise a full A Level in Maths.
Further Mathematics
We offer Further Mathematics at both A and AS Level. Students opting for either course should be strong mathematicians and have a keen interest in the subject. This covers a range of exciting and demanding topics such as complex numbers, matrix algebra, vectors and proof by induction. Anyone wanting to study Mathematics beyond the Sixth Form should be following the Further Mathematics A Level.
Assessment
A full A Level in Further Mathematics must be a second choice alongside Mathematics where the Maths A Level sullabus is covered in the Lower Sixth and the Further Maths A Level syllabus in the Upper Sixth, both requiring 6 modules.
AS Further Mathematics is studied in four extra lessons per week and does not prevent choices in any of the other columns. Students will be expected to work through the normal Maths A Level syllabus and take an extra 3 modules spread over the two years of the Sixth Form course.
We follow the Edexcel specification for Mathematics and Further Mathematics A Level.
Endorsement Maths
Anyone entering the Sixth Form who has not achieved a grade C or above at GCSE is expected to retake their Mathematics exams in November of their Lower Sixth year. Regular classes are provided so that the syllabus content can be thoroughly revised. These classes are usually very small and students benefit greatly from the individual attention.
Head of Department: Mr Damian Blewitt