Avonbourne School

Pupils are set for Mathematics from early in year 7. In years 7, 8 and 9 students followa scheme of work written following the National Numeracy Strategy, using textbooks. The scheme consists of a 10-minute starter each lesson, to sharpen mental arithmetic skills followed by a structured introduction to a task and work set according to the ability of the group or individuals. At the end of the lesson there is a 5-minute review time to set homework and check the understanding of the topic in hand. Homework is set twice each week and may range from follow-up work to the lesson, revising number skills or tables or doing research for a data-handling task. The pupils’ work is reviewed each half term and tested at the end of a term and their achievement is noted in their National Curriculum Record, thus progress is reviewed to ensure all pupils are achieving their maximum potential. This record along with Teacher Assessment is used to review setting at regular intervals. 

In Year 9 pupils will be introduced to the taped mental arithmetic tests, the same type they will experience in their National Curriculum Tests in May. Their achievement is noted in their National Curriculum Record, and this will ensure all pupils will be entered for the correct tier in their Key Stage 3 National Curriculum Tests.

 

There are four overlapping tiers of entry for the Key Stage 3 National Curriculum Tests –

The decision about which level a student is entered for is made during the course of year 9.

 

The tests comprise two written papers, along with a 30-minute Mental Arithmetic test. Of the written papers, one requires a calculator and the other is to be done without a calculator. The tests usually take place in early May. The pupils take a past paper as practice in the weeks before the National Curriculum Tests. There are also revision guides on sale from the Mathematics Department.

 

Students are expected to bring the following items of equipment to each lesson (unless specifically directed otherwise):