Mathematics

The aim of key stage 3 mathematics is to ensure that all pupils: 

  • become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics, where pupils develop conceptual understanding and the ability to recall and apply knowledge rapidly and accurately.
  • reason mathematically by developing an argument, justification or proof using mathematical language
  • can solve problems by applying their mathematics to a variety of routine and non-routine problems

Through the areas of number, algebra, ratio and proportion, geometry and measures, probability and statistics, pupils are taught to:

Develop fluency

  • Consolidate their numerical and mathematical capability from key stage 2 and extend their understanding of the number system and place value to include decimals, fractions, powers and roots
  • Select and use appropriate calculation strategies to solve increasingly complex problems
  • Use algebra to generalise the structure of arithmetic, including to formulate mathematical relationships
  • Substitute values in expressions, rearrange and simplify expressions, and solve equations
  • Move freely between different numerical, algebraic, graphical and diagrammatic representations [for example, equivalent fractions, fractions and decimals, and equations and graphs]
  • Develop algebraic and graphical fluency, including understanding linear and simple quadratic functions
  • Use language and properties precisely to analyse numbers, algebraic expressions, 2-D and 3-D shapes, probability and statistics.

Reason mathematically 

  • Extend their understanding of the number system; make connections between number relationships, and their algebraic and graphical representations
  • Extend and formalise their knowledge of ratio and proportion in working with measures and geometry, and in formulating proportional relations algebraically
  • Identify variables and express relations between variables algebraically and graphically
  • Make and test conjectures about patterns and relationships; look for proofs or counter-examples
  • Begin to reason deductively in geometry, number and algebra, including using geometrical constructions
  • Interpret when the structure of a numerical problem requires additive, multiplicative or proportional reasoning
  • Explore what can and cannot be inferred in statistical and probabilistic settings, and begin to express their arguments formally.

Solve problems 

  • Develop their mathematical knowledge, in part through solving problems and evaluating the outcomes, including multi-step problems
  • Develop their use of formal mathematical knowledge to interpret and solve problems, including in financial mathematics
  • Begin to model situations mathematically and express the results using a range of formal mathematical representations
  • Select appropriate concepts, methods and techniques to apply to unfamiliar and non-routine problems.

Year 7

Areas of mathematics covered are: 

  • algebraic thinking
  • place value and proportion
  • applications of number
  • directed number
  • fractional thinking
  • lines and angles
  • reasoning with number

Year 8

Areas of mathematics covered are: 

  • proportional reasoning
  • representations
  • algebraic techniques
  • developing number
  • developing geometry
  • reasoning with data

Year 9

Areas of mathematics covered are: 

  • reasoning with algebra
  • constructing in 2 and 3 dimensions
  • reasoning with number
  • reasoning with geometry
  • reasoning with proportion
  • representations and revision

Year 10 and 11

You can find further details on the KS4 curriculum below:

Mathematics