Maths higher GCSE

What is the course about?

This course is for anyone who already has a good level of Maths but wishes to develop this to GCSE level and gain the qualification. The Higher course offers an in-depth look at maths up to grade 9 (equivalent to grade A*). The course follows the Edexcel syllabus and the qualification is gained by taking exams at the end of the course in May and June. (Please note the Thursday classes are not every week, but approximately every third week).

This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.

What will we cover?

• some of the more everyday applications of the subjects e.g. percentages and fractions
• statistics: an examination of how and why they are used (incl. histograms)
• geometry (incl. circle geometry)
• algebra (linear, quadratic and area under curves)
• vectors; solving problems using vectors
• trigonometry (incl. 3 dimensional trig)
• velocity/time graphs.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

You should have learned how to carry out the skills above and be able to use these in real life situations such as
• Interpreting statistics in the media and the visual representations of data around you. Be able to comment, draw conclusions and criticise these
• Using algebra to convert a problem into letters and numbers and construct equations to enable you to manipulate and solve it
• Developing your appreciation of the physical world through the study of geometry, shapes and trigonometry, and understanding the importance of these topics in for example architecture, town planning and art
• Understanding the link between your study of vectors, calculating direction and speed of moving objects and the forces applied to these objects, to such areas as the construction of video games today.
• Gaining a GCSE qualification in mathematics.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is an accredited GCSE course at Higher level offering grades 9 - 3. It is not for learners who do not want to do a qualification. You must be able to study for a year and sit the exams. You need to have Maths at least at Level 2 Functional skills in order to be able to complete the course in one year. You need to attend every week and have the time, means and dedication to work outside the classroom. You need to pass the first part of the course before you can move to the accredited part. Those who do not yet have the required skills will be referred to other courses.

To be ready for this course, you should be able to:
• add, subtract, multiply and divide whole numbers and decimal numbers
• recognise basic fractions, calculate fractions of a quantity and combine fractions
• calculate simple percentages and solve problems with these
• write large numbers in words and figures
• round numbers e.g. to the nearest hundred
• calculate the area and perimeter of rectangles and compound shapes with rectangles
• solve basic equations with algebra.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will learn in a supportive and welcoming environment. The tutor will help you discover rules and features of maths. You will work on your own and with other students. You will learn in a step by step manner so you can complete challenging tasks in enjoyable and relaxing ways. Your tutor will also work with you individually so you know how to improve. You will need to do work outside the classroom and use Google Classroom to help you.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

You need to bring a lined A4 writing pad, pen and a folder for assignments/handouts. You will need to buy a textbook and an appropriate calculator. Your tutor will give you details of these in the first class. Some basic maths equipment will be needed e.g. a ruler, a protractor, compasses and pencils. Access to a computer is required as Google Classroom will be used on the course. You will need to buy a textbook and an appropriate calculator. Your tutor will give you details of these in the first class. You will also need some basic maths equipment e.g. a ruler, a protractor, compasses and pencils.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

A Maths GCSE may give you the confidence to apply for a higher level course in further education, such as an Access to Higher Education programme, an A Level or a vocational qualification. If you don't already have your English GCSE qualification, you might like to consider preparing for that.

There are other maths courses you can do before, at the same time as the GCSE to help you gain a good grade. These include:
• The maths of games and lotteries: how to play better (level 2)
• Maths and CHATGPT: a new way of doing maths (L1-L2)
• Maths and podcasting: talk about maths (level 1-level 2)
• Bitesize maths: becoming confident with numbers and calculations (level 1-2)
• Bitesize maths: becoming confident with shapes, space and measuring (level 1-2)
• Bitesize maths: becoming confident with algebra, problem-solving and equations (level 1-2)
• Becoming data literate: how to present data for work or study (level 2)
• Becoming data literate: understanding data and how it is presented from pie-charts to bell curves (level 2)

There also many English, employability and digital skills courses you can do. These include:• Preparing for English Language GCSE
• English language GCSE
• English Functional Skills (level 1) / (level 2)
• Becoming confident in digital skills: Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook (beginner)
• Essential digital skills for the workplace: Word, Excel and PowerPoint (foundation-level 1)
• Business administration: using Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access in the office (intermediate)

For more information, talk with your tutor or contact universal.skills@citylit.ac.uk / 020 4582 0423.