“Pure mathematics is, in its way, the poetry of logical ideas” – Albert Einstein
The mathematics curriculum at Magnus promotes a problem solving mind-set and enhances resilience in the face of challenge; both invaluable skills necessary for later life. Class discussions and group work develop students’ critical thinking and allows them to acknowledge that multiple viewpoints can lead to the same correct outcome. In lessons, students have opportunities to master the skill of following a logical method to give an answer as well as having the space to creatively problem solve where there is not one correct answer. Aspects of mathematics will be used in every student’s future. For this reason, students learn about aspects of financial literacy and how mathematics is used within other subjects. The curriculum at Magnus is designed to expose students to a wide range of skills throughout their education, allowing all students to flourish and find the aspects they enjoy most.
Key information:
Long Term Plans
Exam Specifications
GCSE Specification
A Level Specification
Curriculum Progression
Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3, students will begin to master the building blocks they will need to succeed in mathematics. Firstly, students develop a strong foundation in number and place value, including operating with all types of number. Students will also begin to work with algebra, develop their knowledge of shape and geometry and apply their knowledge of number to proportional reasoning questions. Students follow a mastery curriculum which allows them the time to master a skill before moving onto on to the next, meaning that students leave Key Stage 3 with a strong foundation which they are able to build upon. The curriculum dives deeply into each topic, increasing the challenge throughout lessons and showing the importance of problem solving. Throughout Key Stage 3, all students follow the same curriculum at an appropriate level of challenge meaning that no students are limited as they move into Key Stage 4.
Key Stage 4 (GCSE)
At Key Stage 4, students develop and build upon their knowledge from Key Stage 3. Students are streamed into foundation and higher tiers so they are able to be suitably challenged at their level. Students begin to focus on the exam skills they will need in their GCSEs, including using and applying standard techniques, reasoning and communicating mathematically and solving problems within a variety of contexts. GCSE mathematics encourages learners to develop confidence in, and a positive attitude towards mathematics and to recognise the importance of mathematics in their own lives and to society. It also provides a strong mathematical foundation for learners who go on to study mathematics at a higher level, post-16. Mathematics in Key Stage 4 also develops learners’ ability to think logically through a problem, communicate their ideas and compare methods with others to improve their skills.
Key Stage 5 (A Level)
At Key Stage 5, students have the opportunity to study three qualifications: A Level mathematics, A Level further mathematics and Level 3 mathematical studies. In A Level mathematics, students study a linear course made up of pure mathematics, statistics and mechanics. Students develop their knowledge and understanding of topics such as algebra and trigonometry whilst also studying new areas of maths such as calculus. A Level further mathematics is a modular course where some of the most challenging aspects of mathematics are introduced. Students meet complex numbers, matrices and hyperbolic functions in pure mathematics and have a range of statistics, mechanics and discrete mathematics modules to choose from. Level 3 mathematical studies offers students a shorter one year course where they learn maths that will be crucial in the real world. Students learn about mortgages, tax and National Insurance, and statistics used in the real world. The three different courses offered at Magnus means students with a wide range of abilities can study mathematics at Key Stage 5.
Curriculum Plan
