GCSE Mathematics

Exam Board: OCR GCSE in Mathematics A (Linear Assessment)

The course continues from Year 9 following the SMP structure through to GCSE. The emphasis is on presenting mathematics in context, doing practical work, and undertaking short investigations. The children are in four ability groups though initially all follow the Higher Level course. Later on there may be a Foundation Level group created depending on the needs of the children in a particular year.

In-class support is provided where there is greatest need and children are also encouraged to come to ‘drop in’ mathematics clinics in the mornings before school starts for extra help.

Stages of some 1½ hours in Year 10 rising to 2½ hours in Year 11 are required. Parental guidance and encouragement are welcome, and members of the department are always available to give specific help.

Assessment of work

The examination involves two written question papers (50% each). The examination papers are differentiated and you will be entered at one of two tiers: Foundation or Higher.
Foundation:
Components:
Paper 1 (40%)
2 hours
No calculators
Paper 2 (40%)
2 hours
Calculators required
Grades Available:
C, D, E, F, G
Higher:
Components:
Paper 3 (40%)
2 hours
No calculators
Paper 4 (40%)
2 hours
Calculators required
Grades available:
A*, A, B, C, D

It is a requirement of the Examining Board that you should be entered for the papers appropriate to your level of ability. Failure to observe this means that you run a very high risk of being unclassified in the assessment.

Further study

AS, A-level, Further Mathematics AS, Further Mathematics A-level