Mathematics courses in S3 /S4

All pupils in S3 and S4 study mathematics at Standard Grade / National Qualifications at one of four levels: Credit, Intermediate 2, Intermediate 1 or Access 3. Flexibility of courses allows pupils to move up (or down) levels, according to how well they progress within each level.

Level of Entry

Depending on the pupil's performance in S1 and S2 examinations, backed up by the teacher's own professional judgement regarding future potential, pupils are assigned to one of five sections. S4 classes are made up of one credit section, one intermediate 2 section, two intermediate 1 sections and one access 3 section. Overlaps exist within all five sections, thus enabling teachers to fully stretch all pupils, in order that they achieve their full potential in maths.

Structure of the Course

At each level, the work is split into 6 sections which are spread over S3 and S4. Each section of work lasts approximately 3 months. At the end of each section of work, pupils are assessed on the topics that have been covered. Additionally, the major S3 examination in May and the major S4 examinations in November and February include all work covered up to that particular point. All assessment marks are recorded, and these marks are used to provide feedback to pupils on their progress, to determine future steps and to provide information for reporting to parents. In S4, prelim examinations take place in November and mock examinations in February. This helps to prepare pupils for national SQA exams which they will encounter in May of S4, with the exception of Access 3, which is not assessed externally.

Pupil's Attitudes to Work and Study

Within the confines of the course, freedom is given to pupils to organise their own study, and to take greater responsibility for their own learning. It is important that pupils are given the opportunity to nurture this skill, and to subsequently push themselves on to greater levels of success.

Equipment

Pupils are encouraged to bring their own equipment, if at all possible, to maths classes. This comprises a pencil, a ruler, an eraser and (where appropriate) a calculator. Homework exercise jotters should be covered, and textbooks, when issued, should be properly looked after.

Homework

Homework is an essential and integral part of all Standard Grade / National Qualifications courses, and particularly at Credit and Intermediate 2 levels. Homework is given daily to pupils, and consolidates work done in the class. Pupils are expected to complete all homework, and to complete it to the best of their ability. Additionally, homework exercises are issued at regular intervals. With this type of homework, ample time will be given (usually 5 to 7 days). This is collected in by the class teacher, marked, and used to determine how well pupils have understood certain topics of the course. More diligent pupils who wish to undertake further study in addition to that set by the class teacher, are always encouraged to do so.

Help

Mathematics can be difficult! All members of the mathematics department are always available during class time or at other times convenient to both teachers and pupils, for those pupils who wish to ask for additional help with certain elements of the course, or for general revision purposes. The study support programme offers an ideal opportunity to receive this extra support and assistance from specialist teachers of mathematics.