Farr Numeracy Booklet April 2019

Mathematics is an essential part of everyday life: whether you are measuring a floor for a new carpet, applying for a credit card or deciding whether the pair of trainers that are in the sale are actually the bargain of the year or not!  The contribution of mathematics and numeracy to the whole school curriculum is considerable as there is a strong mathematical element in many subject areas, topics and projects.

 The Farr High School maths department aims to develop confidence, interest and enjoyment in mathematics.   We aim to equip pupils with knowledge, understanding as well and reasoning and communicative skills when working with number.  We use a variety of up-to-date teaching methods and resources, including TI-nspire graphing calculators and ICT, to engage pupils and relate their mathematical knowledge to everyday life around them.  We are a very approachable department and depend on good communication links with pupils, parents and staff to allow our pupils to achieve their potential.

During S1-S3, pupils follow a broad general education in maths.  They have an opportunity to learn a wide range of knowledge and skills from many topics, including Numeracy.  Our aim is to lay a secure foundation for meeting the examination courses that follow from S4-S6.

From years S4-S6, the pupils have an opportunity to gain SQA-approved National Qualifications in Mathematics.   We offer National 3 Life Skills Mathematics, and Mathematics at National 4, National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher.

The National 4 Mathematics course is split into 3 Units:

  1. EXPRESSIONS AND FORMULAE
  2. RELATIONSHIPS
  3. NUMERACY

In addition to this there is an ADDED VALUE UNIT: MATHEMATICS TEST

The skills pupils will develop during Nat 4 maths include:

  • understanding and applying straightforward mathematical skills in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and statistics.
  • using mathematical techniques and reasoning skills to solve mathematical problems.
  • a positive attitude to mathematics based on an understanding of its use in real-life situations.
  • skills in using mathematical language and exploring mathematical ideas.
  • resilience and confidence in problem-solving.
  • analytical skills.
  • understanding the importance of accuracy.
  • interpreting, communicating and managing information in mathematical form logical reasoning skills.
  • communicating solutions, using presentation skills.
  • decision-making.
  • creativity and deduction.
  • leadership and teamwork skills in group activities.

 

The National 5 Mathematics course is split into 3 units:

  1. EXPRESSIONS AND FORMULAE
  2. RELATIONSHIPS
  3. APPLICATIONS

In addition to this there is a COURSE ASSESSMENT consisting of 2 externally assessed exam papers.

The skills pupils will develop during Nat 5 maths include:

  • understanding and applying mathematical skills in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and statistics.
  • simplifying and solving problems.
  • selecting and applying mathematical techniques to real-life contexts.
  • making connections and informed predictions.
  • using mathematical language and exploring mathematical ideas.
  • resilience and confidence in problem-solving.
  • analytical and evaluative skills.
  • interpreting, communicating and managing information in mathematical form.
  • logical reasoning skills.
  • assessing risk and making informed decisions.
  • creativity and the ability to think in abstract ways.
  • the manipulation of abstract terms to solve problems and generalise.

National 5 usually progresses onto Higher Mathematics.

 

The Higher Course in Mathematics develops learners’ mathematical rigour and the ability to use precise and concise mathematical language assumes a particular importance at this stage.

Candidates who complete a Higher Mathematics course successfully are expected to have a competence and a confidence in applying mathematical techniques, manipulating symbolic expressions and communicating with mathematical correctness in the solution of problems.

The course has obvious relevance for candidates with interests in fields such as commerce, engineering and science where the mathematics learned will be put to direct use.

 

The department also offers an Advanced Higher course in S6 for the pupil who wants to challenge themselves further.  The Advanced Higher Course extends learners’ mathematical knowledge in algebra, geometry and calculus. It includes matrix algebra, complex numbers and vectors and formalizes the concept of mathematical proof.  Advanced Higher Mathematics emphasises the need for candidates to undertake extended thinking and decision making, to solve problems and integrate mathematical knowledge. The course offers candidates, in an interesting and enjoyable manner, an enhanced awareness of the range and power of mathematics.