Middle School Mathematics

At The King Alfred School, we take into Middle School children with very different backgrounds in Mathematics and, indeed, with a very large spread of abilities and attainments. They have experienced different syllabuses and teaching styles. We aim to provide a wide-ranging course covering a broad spectrum of topics to secure a sound foundation upon which to develop further in Upper School. Within this course we expect children to: appreciate Mathematics as an essential element of communication and as a powerful tool in problem-solving; become aware of relationships within Mathematics; learn to work systematically both independently and in co-operation with others; and gain in confidence and be able to tackle mathematical tasks of appropriate difficulty without anxiety and apprehension.

Organisation

We are using the latest SMP Interact scheme for Years 7 to 9. It is a scheme that uses a variety of teaching approaches to stimulate pupils and foster their understanding and enjoyment of mathematics. In addition to this we have regular lessons on numeracy and using non-calculator methods for solving problems.

In both Year 7 and Year 8 the two form classes are usually divided into three mixed groups. We will occasionally arrange these groups according to ability but this is entirely dependent on the range of abilities within that particular year. It should be noted, however, that we recognise that children advance mathematically at different rates and so we therefore don’t make any long-term plans (such as level of entry for GCSE) based on these groupings. Teaching styles can vary from group work to teacher led lessons and may include short projects involving investigational and practical tasks. In Year 9 children are grouped into two abilities but in four sets, depending on the needs of that particular year. Later on, further grouping can take place if required. Children, however, may – and do – change groups depending on their progress and development. The core SMP materials are extended and enhanced by other work developed within the school. Computers and other resources are utilised and are becoming more important. We are monitoring the changes that are taking place in mathematics education and amending our programme as needed.

Assessment of work

Both classwork and stages are marked but grading is rarely used. We encourage active involvement from children to become increasingly responsible for their own learning. Tests are approximately once a term and we operate a ‘traffic light’ system for topics: green means the topic has been fully understood, amber means a little extra followup work is required and red means considerable follow up is required. We provide extra work and support as necessary by ourselves.

Homework

Homework, or Stages, play an important part in the training children require to become responsible for their learning and indeed to be able to cope with coursework for GCSE subjects in Upper School. On average approximately one hour’s homework is set per week in Year 7 rising to 1½ hours in Years 8 and 9.

Equipment required

Calculator: each child who requires a calculator will be supplied with the one recommended by the school (the cost will be added to your bill). Other materials: additional materials are provided by the school. However, children should have a ruler, pencil and a pair of compasses.

Parental involvement

It is helpful to us and students if parents check that their children are completing Stages and that they are coping with the work being set. If parents are worried about their child’s progress, or about our scheme, we urge them to contact the school. We will be pleased to help in any way we can.

Further study

There are a range of mathematics competitions that children are encouraged to enter with appropriate work, help and support provided. There is also a weekly Maths Club, which is purely for the enjoyment of mathematics and can have children of ages 8 to 18 mixing together in a supportive environment. Exams: GCSE, AS, A-level, Further Mathematics AS, Further Mathematics A-level.