Maths

Exam Board:

OCR

What will I study on the course:

You will build fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills across key areas of mathematics. The course covers:

  • Number (structure, calculations, fractions, decimals, percentages, powers, roots, standard form)
  • Algebra (expressions, equations, inequalities, sequences, graphs, quadratic equations)
  • Ratio, proportion, and rates of change (ratios, percentages, direct/inverse proportion, compound measures)
  • Geometry and measures (properties of shapes, congruence, similarity, trigonometry, Pythagoras, perimeter/area/volume, vectors, transformations)
  • Probability (theoretical/practical probability, tree diagrams, Venn diagrams)
  • Statistics (data collection, representation, analysis, averages, scatter graphs, cumulative frequency) The content is the same for Foundation (grades 1-5) and Higher (grades 4-9) tiers, but Higher includes more advanced topics and greater depth (e.g., surds, algebraic fractions, trigonometric ratios). Emphasis is on applying maths to real-life contexts and solving multi-step problems.

How is the course assessed:

100% exam-based (linear, all exams at the end of the course): Three equally weighted papers (each 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks, 33.3% of GCSE):

  • Paper 1: Non-calculator
  • Paper 2: Calculator allowed
  • Paper 3: Calculator allowed Questions include short-answer, multi-step, and problem-solving types. A formula sheet is provided in exams (for 2025 onwards, including key formulae like area/volume). No coursework; all assessment is through these written papers. Tiers are Foundation or Higher (students take all papers at the same tier).

Post-16 courses:

A Level Mathematics, A Level Further Mathematics, Core Maths (Level 3 Mathematical Studies), or vocational courses like BTEC in Engineering, Business, or Computing. Strong GCSE Maths (grade 4+ or 5+) is required for most A Levels, apprenticeships, and many college courses.

Careers:

Engineering (mechanical, civil, electrical), finance/accounting, data analysis/science, architecture, medicine/nursing, teaching, IT/programming, economics, actuarial science, construction, logistics, and many STEM-related fields. Maths skills are essential for roles involving problem-solving, data interpretation, budgeting, analysis, or technology – valued in almost every industry, including business, science, and public services.

Specific advantages:

Maths develops logical thinking, resilience, and the ability to tackle complex problems step-by-step. It’s untiered in content access (all students study the full curriculum before tiering), with clear progression from basics to advanced. The course includes real-world applications, supports other subjects (e.g., science, geography), and builds confidence through regular practice. At Discovery Academy, the focus on problem-solving and engaging lessons helps make it more enjoyable and relevant.

How useful it is in the real world:

Extremely useful – numeracy and logical reasoning are required for everyday life (budgeting, shopping, understanding statistics in news/media) and virtually all careers. Employers highly value strong maths skills for roles needing accuracy, analysis, decision-making, and technology use (e.g., spreadsheets, coding, engineering calculations). It opens doors to higher-paying jobs, apprenticeships, and university courses. Good GCSE Maths improves financial literacy, critical thinking, and adaptability in a data-driven world – it’s a gateway qualification that supports lifelong success.

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