Mathematics

Mathematics
including Further Mathematics

Mathematics is at the very heart of a John Lyon education. Alongside English, Maths is a core discipline studied by all pupils from Year 7 through to the end of (I)GCSEs in Year 11.

Mathematics’ popularity among pupils means it is consistently the most-chosen subject to study at A-Level. Results-wise, Mathematics is consistently one of the most successful departments in the school, achieving excellent results at both IGCSE and A-level. As a result we often have many pupils who go on to study Mathematics-based subjects at university, such as Engineering, Architecture and straight Mathematics.


Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 | Core subject

In the first three years at John Lyon, pupils gain an strong understanding of the foundation IGCSE course. This includes learning the main principles of algebra, number, shape space, and measure and statistics. Those who require extension onto the higher tier course are provided support by subject teachers in addition to investigative lessons, where pupils themselves can discover the secrets behind Mathematics. All pupils are entered into the UKMT Junior Mathematics Challenge, many of whom attain certificates and entry into subsequent rounds.

Additionally, our main goal is to ensure that John Lyon pupils enjoy and love Mathematics prior to beginning their IGCSE. This is achieved by the pupils being actively involved in exciting lessons and seeing the applications of Mathematics in the real world.


Year 10 and 11 | IGCSE | Core subject

At GCSE, the emphasis switches to preparing for success in the upcoming IGCSE exams. All pupils are entered for the higher tier exam and the focus is primarily held on this goal.

The course fuses an understanding of numbers, algebra, geometry and statistics. Pupils learn to present real-life problems in mathematical language and then solve them using an array of different methods. Additionally, in Year 11, the most advanced pupils will be invited to sit an additional examination alongside the IGCSE. This is currently the AQA Level 2 Certificate in Further Mathematics.

GCSE REQUIREMENTS
– As a core subject there are no requirements to study IGCSE Mathematics
– The Further Mathematics course is open to pupils in Set 1 and at the invitation of the Head of Mathematics.

EXAMINATION BOARD
– Edexcel IGCSE 4MA1 Mathematics A


Sixth Form, A-Level | Option subject

At A-Level, students extend their powers of reasoning and insight in abstract frameworks. Application to real-world problems may be relevant and exploited in order to make sense of the new mathematical structures and methods presented to them.

Students selecting Further Mathematics make the commitment to look into a significant range of mathematical techniques in great depth. They are the elite of young mathematicians and must be extremely motivated and capable of studying both collaboratively and independently.

A-LEVEL REQUIREMENTS
– Grade 8 at (I)GCSE Mathematics to study A-Level Mathematics
– Completion of AQA Level 2 Certificate in Further Mathematics and 90% or higher at (I)GCSE to study Further Mathematics

EXAMINATION BOARD
– Edexcel A-Level 9MA0 Mathematics
– Edexcel A-Level 9FM0 Further Mathematics


John Lyon Success

– 100% of A-Level Further Mathematics students achieved an A* or A grade.
– 44% of IGCSE pupils gained a 9 or 8 grade.
– Jasvir Chauhan (2019) left John Lyon to read Mechanical Engineering at Queen Mary University of London.


Outside the Classroom

John Lyon students have many opportunities to put their mathematical knowledge to the test outside the classroom. Every year pupils of all ages enter the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust competitions, with many being recognised for their achievements and gaining entry to further higher competitions.

John Lyon’s extensive list of extra-curricular activities includes many options for pupils with mathematical minds, such as Architecture, STEP/MAT Masterclass, VEX Robotics and Board Game Club.


Beyond School

Mathematics is highly regarded by universities and employers, who see it as a mark of diligence, insight and intellect; hence why it is the most popular A-Level subject in the country. It is a highly useful subject that is used throughout careers in science, engineering and finance, but is widely appreciated by employers from almost every sector due to the range of problem solving skills it requires.