S3-4 MAthematics

Ambition, Confidence, Happiness and Respect.

 

Mathematics includes specific aspects of numeracy which will be developed both in mathematics and through activities in other areas of the curriculum.

Putting mathematical knowledge and understanding to constructive use has been one of the decisive factors in shaping societies. Engineering, science, technology and business rely upon mathematics and continue to find new applications for mathematics. Cultural development and artistic endeavour are influenced by mathematics. Each of us uses mathematical skills and concepts in everyday life. To face the challenges of the 21st century, each of you need to have confidence in using mathematical skills, and Scotland needs both specialist mathematicians and a highly numerate population.

Learning through mathematics enables you to:

• develop essential numeracy skills, including arithmetical skills which allow you to participate fully in society
• develop a secure understanding of the concepts, principles and processes of mathematics and apply these in different contexts, including the world of work
• have an understanding of the application of mathematics, its impact on our society past and present, and its potential for the future
• establish firm foundations for further specialist learning, including for those who will be the mathematicians of the future.

To help pupils achieve the above, the aims of the mathematics department are to encourage and enable students to:

• recognise that mathematics is everywhere in the world around us
• develop patience and persistence when solving problems
• understand and be able to use the language, symbols and notation of mathematics
• become confident in using mathematics to analyse and solve problems both in school and in real-life situations
• develop a critical appreciation of the use of information and communication technology in mathematics
• appreciate the international dimension of mathematics and its multicultural and historical perspectives
• develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to pursue further studies in mathematics

Although there are some careers that specifically require Maths, such as engineering, science and finance, every job in the workplace requires a level of numeracy.

National 4 - Maths

This course is designed to build on the Mathematical skills developed so far.  It will introduce a wide variety of new mathematical concepts and how they relate to the world around us. You will also further develop your reasoning and problem-solving skills and will use these skills to make informed decisions.

The course is made up of three units:

1. Expressions and Formulae
2. Relationships
3. Numeracy

Successful students can progress to National 5 Maths.

National 5 - Maths

This course is designed to build on the Mathematical skills developed so far.  It will introduce a wide variety of new mathematical concepts and how they relate to the world around us specifically by:

• understand and use mathematical concepts and relationships
• select and apply numerical skills
• select and apply skills in algebra, geometry, trigonometry and statistics
• use mathematical models
• use mathematical reasoning skills to interpret information, to select a strategy to solve a problem, and to communicate solutions

Successful students can progress to Higher Maths

 

National 3 - Applications of Maths

This course has been designed to develop the numerical skills you will need for your future.  You will build on the basic skills you have and learn how to apply them in real-life contexts. In addition, you will also improve your problem-solving skills enabling you to make informed decisions based on the understanding of information given. 

The course is made up of three units:

1. Manage Money and Data
2. Shape, Space and Measures
3. Numeracy

To achieve the National 3 Applications of Mathematics course award you must pass all of the units which are internally accessed.  Successful students can progress to National 4 Applications of Mathematics

National 4 - Applications of Mathematics

This course is designed to develop your numerical and mathematical skills to prepare you for life and work. You will be introduced to mathematical techniques that will help develop your reasoning and problem-solving skills and will use them to make informed decisions. 

National 4 Mathematics or National 4 Application of Mathematics is the minimum level of study required for most apprenticeships

The course is made up of four units:

1. Managing Finance and Statistics
2. Geometry and Measures
3. Numeracy
4. Added Value Unit

Successful students can progress to National 5 Applications of Mathematics

National 5 - Applications of Mathematics

This course is designed to develop skills for learning, life and work through context and application led learning. You will acquire numerical and Mathematical skills and apply them in real-life contexts. You will also further develop your reasoning and problem-solving skills and will use these skills to make informed decisions.

The course is made up of three units:

1. Managing Finance and Statistics
2. Geometry and Measures
3. Numeracy

The final exam has two papers (non-calculator and calculator) and is marked externally. The external course assessment (final exam) will provide the basis for your grade.

Successful students can progress to  National 5 Mathematics  or

Higher Application of Mathematics (potentially available 2022).