Mathematics
Course: AQA GCSE Mathematics (8300)
Overview of Content
  • Number
  • Algebra
  • Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change
  • Geometry and Measures
  • Probability
  • Statistics
Paper 1: Non Calculator – 33⅓% - 1 hour 30-minute exam
  • Content from any part of the specification may be assessed.
  • A mix of question styles, from short, single-mark questions to multi-step problems.
Paper 2: Calculator – 33⅓% - 1 hour 30-minute exam
  • Content from any part of the specification may be assessed.
  • A mix of question styles, from short, single-mark questions to multi-step problems.
Paper 3: Calculator – 33⅓% - 1 hour 30-minute exam
  • Content from any part of the specification may be assessed.
  • A mix of question styles, from short, single-mark questions to multi-step problems.

Course Description
GCSE Mathematics is a subject of problem solving, logic and resilience in challenging situations. The subject is so much more than one of sums and equations; it is essential to the understanding of everyday life and our universe.
Students will have the opportunity to study the following topic areas; Number, Algebra, Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change, Geometry and Measures, Probability and Statistics and will be assessed over three written papers in which the mathematical demand increases as a student progresses through the paper.
GCSE Mathematics has a Foundation Tier (Grade 1-5) and a Higher Tier (Grade 4-9). Students must take all three question papers at the same tier of entry.
Revision Tips
  • Ensure you practice plenty ofexam style questions. Donot just read, revisionmustbeactive.Youneedtobeable toapply theskillyouhavelearnt toa problem. Always end revision sessions with an exam style question.
  • Complete your weekly exam paper homework to familiarise yourself application and problem solving questions.
  • Use‘mindmaps’/’spider diagrams’todisplayrevisionnotes.
  • Makeflashcards- thesecanhelpsummarisekeynotes/formulaeandin turnyou’ll be able tovisualise thecard inanexam.
  • Use your mock exam analysis to focus on key topics in preparation for your next exam.
  • Attend both Period 0 and Period 6 to access support and guidance around key topic areas.

Tips for Success
  • Read your questions carefully. For problem solving type questions, read the entire question and get all the information provided. Draw a diagram if it helps you.
  • Practise using your calculator. Remember two thirds of the exams are calculator based.
  • Method: Mathematics is a discipline of logic. Lay out your work systematically. Write any formula you might be using and show your working clearly. Remember that maximum marks are awarded for the method.
  • Time yourself while completing past papers so you become familiar with timed conditions.
  • Just ‘do Maths’ – practicing and answering lots of questions builds confidence and helps identify clearly what still needs to be worked on .
Useful Websites
  • Revision guides and workbooks also available to buy from school at £2.50 each.
For more information, contact Miss SElvin.