Years 4, 5 and 6
In the Junior Years, we follow the Abacus scheme with the focus being on consolidation of the basic skills:
- Addition
- Subtraction
- Multiplication
- Division
We aim to develop a sound understanding and familiarity with these processes as a basis for further maths work in later years. We recognise the importance of a varied approach and use a combination of oral, written and practical learning strategies.
The following topics are covered during the course of Years 4-6, progressing from basic to more complex computation, skills and understanding:
- Number
- Money
- Measures
- Shape & Space
- Data Handling
- Problem Solving
At Aberlour House we recognise that each child develops individually so all planning and assessment is differentiated according to each child. We use a balance of formative and summative assessment to monitor their progress and ensure that their needs are being met.
Our aim is to ensure that pupils move into the senior end of the school feeling well-prepared and confident in their mathematical ability.
Year 7
In Year 7 pupils start work on Key Stage 3 of the National Curriculum, revising Level 4 then working mainly at Level 5. The Common Entrance syllabus is also followed in preparation for the final exams in Year 8. Pupils build on the skills that they have developed in Key Stage 2 and increasingly make connections between different aspects of mathematics.
Topics covered include arithmetic (including fractions, decimals and percentages), basic algebra, properties of shapes, data handling and problem solving.
Year 8
During this year pupils continue to follow Key Stage 3 of the National Curriculum. Topics are centred at level 5 and 6 with some elements of Level 7. There is also consolidation of the Common Entrance syllabus leading to exams in June with pupils sitting scholarship in February following an accelerated course. Candidates should work with increasing confidence and flexibility to solve unfamiliar problems, including word problems.
Pupils are assessed in June in the following ways:
(i) oral paper
(ii) two written papers, one with calculators and one without.
Scientific calculators are required during Year 8. To facilitate the move to senior school we would recommend that calculators have a ‘fraction’ facility as well as standard trigonometric functions and are solar powered.