Name of Head of Department
Mr N Riseborough BSc (Hons), PGCE
Introduction to the department
It is our hope that mathematics at DHSG should first of all be fun. We wish to stimulate interest in, and enthusiasm for, the study of mathematics for its own sake so that girls discover for themselves the richness and variety of the subject and the unique insight it provides into the nature of the world around them. This is not to overlook the development of the skills required for adult life, other subjects, and the passing of examinations but is intended to demonstrate our commitment to the fostering of a positive attitude to the subject. We also aim to provide girls of varying abilities and interests, the opportunity to achieve their full potential in the subject at an appropriate level and rate of progress.
Key stage 3 (Year 7 and 8)
Curriculum in year 7:
Term 1
Properties of number, negative numbers, using a calculator, introduction to algebra
Term 2
Rounding and estimation, area and perimeter, fractions, solving equations
Term 3
Fractions, decimals and percentages recap, probability, solving more complex equations
Term 4
Ratio, 3D shapes, volume and surface area, formulae
Term 5
Sequences, angles, averages, transformations
Term 6
Further angles, compound measures, inequalities, constructions
Curriculum in Year 8:
Area and Perimeter ; Volume and Surface Area; Algebra 1 – Brackets; Rounding & Estimation; Using a Calculator; Angles 1; Angles 2; Ratio ; Transformations
Probability; Sequences; Trial and Improvement; Statistics 1; Solving Harder Linear Equations; 3D Shapes; Inequalities; Constructions; Square & Cube Roots; Algebra 2 – Formulae; Speed Distance Time/Compound Measure
Statistics 2; Fractions; Transformations 2; Straight Line Graphs; Pythagoras’ Theorem; Statistics 3; Fractions and Percentages
Bearings and Scale Drawing; Quadratic Graphs
All students follow the new Edexcel GCSE (Higher) mathematics course. Whilst we do set by ability, all girls follow the same scheme of work and sit the same assessments. All students have the opportunity to achieve the highest grades.
Details can be found here:
Full details of the specification and assessment criteria can be found on the Edexcel website GCSE Mathematics Specification
Key stage 4 (Year 9, 10 and 11)
All students follow the new Edexcel GCSE (Higher) mathematics course. Whilst we do set by ability, all girls follow the same scheme of work and sit the same assessments. All students have the opportunity to achieve the highest grades.
Details can be found here:
Full details of the specification and assessment criteria can be found on the Edexcel website GCSE Mathematics Specification
Extra-curricular activities
200 pupils every year take part in the junior, intermediate and senior mathematics challenges.
The department run a mathematics club on a lunchtime. Students from this group are selected for the Mathematics Challenge team. The school have been regional junior champions on a number of occasions.
