Monday 6 February 2012

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Mathematics

Mathematics is a core subject at Albyn. It is compulsory up to the end of U4 and is strongly recommended as a subject choice in U5.

At all times we aim to:

U1/U2

U1/U2 come to Maths in 2 clan groupings, with two sets operating in each group, using the Maths in Action series as the core textbook. Each set covers the same core syllabus as the books run with parallel topic chapters.

The pace of work will be dictated by the ability of a set. It is always our aim to stretch those who enjoy the challenges of Maths, and in particular, present them regularly with in-context work rather than repetitive practice.

For those who find that Maths needs revision and consolidation, we will provide that too. Non-calculator skills and mental skills are vital for all who study Maths and we allocate at least one period per week throughout U1/U2 to these. Each pupil is expected to complete a written homework each week in relevant practice of these skills.

Each pupil has a profile which is regularly completed by the class teacher, the pupil and the parents. Communication in learning is vital and we encourage parents to take an active interest in their child’s progress.

U3/U4

In U3/U4 we work in 4 groups. Three groups work towards Intermediate 2 with the remaining set following an Intermediate 1 syllabus.  All pupils come at the same time, allowing us to ensure that each pupil is working at an appropriate level.

U5/U6

In, U5/U6 everyone is encouraged to continue to study Maths. A high percentage will study Higher Maths over one year – this group is split into 2 sections to allow maximum teacher/pupil ratio and time for individual attention. Higher Maths can be completed over two years if necessary.

Those who achieved Intermediate 1 in U4 are encouraged to do Intermediate 2 in U5.

In U6, we offer Advanced Higher Maths and Advanced Higher Applied Maths. By this stage many pupils are ready to say farewell to the Maths Department but we encourage some to take the Higher Statistics unit (2 periods/week for about 2 terms) to give them the more solid grounding in Statistics needed in many other subjects.

Beyond the Curriculum

Throughout the school each pupil is encouraged to find enjoyment in Maths and to see it as more than a classroom subject. We always encourage pupils to take part in national competitions such as United Kingdom Maths Challenge, Scottish Maths Challenge, Enterprising Maths Team competitions and Maths in the Pipeline as these provide enrichment in learning and help make Maths more enjoyable. Recently one of our pupils, Matthew Macfarlane, was chosen to attend a Maths summer school at Birmingham University and another, Marcus Obendrauf won a coveted Silver Medal from UKMT.

Maths Master Classes are available in Aberdeen for U2/U3pupils. University lectures are organised regularly for U5/U6   students which we actively encourage pupils studying Maths to attend.