Maths is important in everyday life, allowing us to make sense of the world around us. It equips us with many of the skills required for life, learning and work. In S3, pupils will continue to develop their skills such as logical reasoning, analysis, problem solving and the ability to think in abstract ways.
Depending on their ability, pupils will continue to develop their maths in the following areas:
- Algebra: Patterns and relationships; expressions and equations
- Geometry: Properties of 2D shapes and 3D objects, angles, symmetry and transformation, Pythagoras and trigonometry.
- Statistics: Data and analysis
- Mathematics: its impact on society
- Numeracy: Basic number processes, money, estimation and rounding, time, measure, ideas of chance and uncertainty
The maths will be taught in units of work. Where possible, the topics will be linked to other subject areas so that pupils will be able to see the relevance of what is being taught. Links will also be made where maths may be used in later life.
Homework
Homework will vary depending on the level of the course and is likely to be of the following types: independent homework assignments, practising work carried out in class, researching a topic, preparing a presentation (sometimes part of a group). All pupils will be expected to back up their classwork with a considerable amount of private study.
Assessment
Assessment will be informal and formal and will take place throughout the year. Informal assessment will be through class activities and homework, formal assessment through tests.
Progression:
- National 3 Mathematics
- National 4 Lifeskills
- National 5 Lifeskills
OR
- National 4 Mathematics
- National 5 Mathematics
- Higher Mathematics
- Advanced Higher Mathematics
Possible careers where maths would be needed:
- Actuarial Mathematics
- Engineering
- Accountancy
Many other careers involve a maths component. Further information may be found at:
