Aim of course
Mathematics is important in our everyday life, allowing us to make sense of the numbers in the world around us and to manage our lives. Learning mathematics gives young people access to the wider curriculum and the opportunity to pursue further studies and interests. Numeracy is taught as a discreet subject in Sanderson with classes mixed in stage but in similar ability. Numeracy differs from Maths as all classes focus on one outcome and tasks are based on everyday numeracy.
Mathematics uses a universal language of numbers and symbols which allows us to communicate ideas and develop problem-solving skills.
Course content
The mathematics curriculum follows the Curriculum for Excellence guidelinesand SQA courses which are relevant and individualised. The BGE experiences and outcomes are structured into 3 main sections: Number, money and measure; Shape position and movement; and Information handling.
Pupils are taught skills and concepts in formal and informal learning situations. Formal lessons are reinforced by involving pupils in real-life situations e.g. community visits to shops, Museum of Rural Life, residential experiences and participating in Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, where they have to call on skills they have learned in school.
Number, money, time, measurement, shape, position, movement and information handling are taught so that pupils can apply their learning in real-life situations.
Learning and teaching situations are adapted to ensure that pupils’ abilities and needs are met in an encouraging and supportive environment.
Homework
Homework is issued based on the Sanderson Homework Policy and can be a written piece of work or a practical task and is designed to complement ideas introduced in class. Practical tasks could include the application of learning to an everyday, practical setting e.g. using money when out with parents/carers shopping, using kitchen measuring utensils, telling the time at home. Home learning is tailored to the individual needs of the pupil.
Assessment arrangements
Assessment in mathematics focuses on a young person’s abilities to work more confidently with numbers, data and mathematical concepts and use them in a range of contexts. SQA certification is attained at individual levels. SNSAs are given to S3 in Numeracy at the level decided by their class teacher.
Reporting
Formal reports and parents’ evenings.