Mathematics
The department is housed in a suite of rooms in the main building on the first floor. This includes four teaching rooms plus a mathematics laboratory, housing a small computer network.
Adjacent to the mathematics laboratory is the department office as well as the stock room. Each room is equipped with a range of practical resources with sufficient space for the storage of text and student records.
Ethos of the Department
The Mathematics team aims to :
Enable each individual to enjoy mathematics.
Develop their mathematical skills and understanding to their full potential, regardless of academic ability, gender or background.
Develop the confidence of the individual in their ability to use and apply mathematics to solving problems.
Give students breadth and depth of experience through mathematical activity
To help us achieve these aims we use Nelson Secondary Maths in Years 7 and 8 - this is complemented and supported with printed and practical resources. A variety of texts are used in year 9, whilst in Key Stage 4 the students use Heinemann textbooks.
Throughout the five year course these materials are complemented with open-ended tasks to ensure that students develop essential problem-solving skills associated with coursework.
Examinations
Our students are prepared for the ULEAC syllabus for GCSE examination entry. Each students sits two written papers, the length of each paper varies according to the tier the student is entered for. In addition all students are assessed in their ability to use and apply mathematics.
Extra Curricular Activities
Weekly: Year 11 support - arranged in January to meet the needs of individual groups groups and staff. Mentoring of students with estimated C/D grades takes place at the same time.
Annually: Primary Mathematics Activity Afternoon
Borough Mathematical Challenge for students in Year 9 and Year 10
Extension days for more able students.
Student Comments
"I have really progressed in Maths since I have been at Sanders and I like the way we work through books."
"The staff in the Maths department are always willing to give time to help with any maths-
related problems."
"In Maths we work at a steady pace. Everything is fully explained and we understand it. My Maths has definitely improved since coming to Sanders Draper.