Levels Explained
There are three different levels of entry for GCSE in Mathematics. This is to enable students to work at a rate appropriate for their level of ability.
At the Higher Level, grades A*, A, B and C are available. This course has a high algebra content and is appropriate for those students who are perhaps intending to study Mathematics at A level.
At Intermediate level, pupils have to display an understanding of abstract ideas such as trigonometry, geometry and quite a bit of algebra.
Foundation level is for students in our lower sets and will enable them to achieve grades D, E, F and G.
Please note that we have to be very careful not to enter a student for a level which is too difficult for them. If they fail to achieve the lowest grade at their level, ten they get an "Unclassified" grade or "U".
DECISIONS ABOUT LEVEL OF ENTRY WILL BE BASED UPON PERFORMANCE IN THE TRIAL EXAMINATIONS AND THE QUALITY OF COURSEWORK OVER THE YEAR.
What is involved in GCSE Maths?
We use the EDEXCEL Linear Mathematics course for GCSE. This has two final exams, worth 40% each. In addition, there are two final pieces of coursework, each worth 10% of the final mark. One is an investigation and the other is statistical study.
At Bradfield, we do both coursework pieces in Year 11, when the students are more confident mathematicians.
An Overview of Y11
There are a few pressure points to be aware of this year. Successful students will be those who take control of their workload and keep ahead of schedule.
The first piece of GCSE coursework is an investigation and takes place in the first half term.
We will have formal exams just before Christmas. These allow us to check that we enter you for the correct level for GCSE, at the same time they allow you to look for areas you need to improve upon.
The second piece of coursework is a statistical investigation, which is to be done in the first half term after Christmas.
A Quick Reminder about Targets
If you look back at your Y9 SAT level, you can compare yourself with how well recent Bradfield Y11 students achieved when they moved on to GCSE.
LEVEL 3
10% reached grade E
40% reached grade F
30% reached grade G
LEVEL 4
13% reached grade D
52% reached grade E
30% reached grade F
LEVEL 5
2% reached grade B
33% reached grade C
47% reached grade D
12% reached grade E
2% reached grade F
LEVEL 6
2% reached grade A
26% reached grade B
65% reached grade C
6% reached grade D
LEVEL 7
25% reached grade A
69% reached grade B
6% reached grade C
LEVEL 8
40% reached grade A*
60% reached grade A