Secondary Maths

Notes from the History of Maths

A’ is for algebra and angst Maths teachers know that when a class are told the new topic is to do with algebra, there is likely to be a collective groan. Algebra, however, has a rich and fascinating history. Who invented algebra? Why do we use the letter x? Certainly,… Read More

A ‘Never Too Late’ Approach to the Summer Exams

With the countdown to the summer exams well under way I take the view that while there is time there is hope and it is always very helpful to keep a positive mind about the exams that lie ahead; in the final analysis, all we can do is to do… Read More

Simply take … A set of blank cards – A matter of opinion

This is an activity that could be used to introduce the ideas of probability compared to likelihood. The lesson before: For a homework I asked students to take six cards (size A6 seems to work well) and to write on each of these an event that might or might not… Read More

Inspirational Starters

Having recently visited two high  achieving schools in Somerset and Dorset,  I have reaffirmed my belief that inspirational starters are a key cornerstone to achieving excellent exam results.  It has also reminded me of the saying that you never get a second chance to make a first impression  – very… Read More

Secondary Maths – Simply take a set of white cards

Simply take … A set of white cards This is an activity that could be used to improve students understanding of types of number. Students could work in pairs initially, checking the problems that they write for each other before passing them on to other students to solve. Using… Read More

Secondary Maths – IGCSE Maths qualifications

Until 2010 IGCSE could not be taught in state schools in England and Wales. That restriction was lifted in June 2010 and some maths teachers are wondering if the exam might be a good option for them. To help them decide, here is a brief guide to Mathematics IGCSE. The first… Read More

KS3 Maths – Encourage students to work systematically

Simply take …A set of This is an activity that could be used to encourage students to work systematically and show you a variety of ways in which they organise a set of things. You need • a set of cards dominoes for each pair of students • cards cut… Read More

GCSE Statistics – Probability activities

People are always talking about probability. ‘I think it’s going to rain’, ‘I have no chance of passing my maths test’, ‘I expect I’ll win the tennis match.’ Probability is the measure of how likely an outcome is. An impossible event has a probability of 0. Something that is… Read More

GCSE Maths – Fractions activity to bridge the gap to A Level

Download a free chapter of the Bridging GCSE and A Level Maths book here to practice fractions for A Level with your GCSE students.  This activity revisits areas that may not have been studied recently to fill gaps in knowledge and make links. This free sample chapter, including exam questions,… Read More

Secondary Maths – Booster revision with a difference

A booster revision conference with a difference;  utilising untapped innovation. For the past few years the mathematics team have gone the extra mile to support GCSE, ‘AS’ and ‘A’ level students  both within mathematics lessons and increasingly importantly supporting students outside of lessons through material on the VLE and recommending… Read More