Mathematics and Numeracy Double Award

Mathematics and Numeracy Double Award

Qualification

GCSE

Examination Board

WJEC

Overview of content

During the GCSE course, pupils continue to broaden and deepen their mathematical skills, knowledge and understanding. The course covers a wide range of topics, from using number, statistics, algebra and shape in purely mathematical contexts, to real-world applications and solving practical problems using mathematics.

The course has 3 units:

Unit 1: Financial Mathematics and Other Applications of Numeracy

In this unit, you will learn life lessons that will help you become a financially well-informed adult. Think about terms or acronyms you may have heard about like ‘National Insurance’, ‘VAT’ or ‘AER’ – these will become familiar to you. Financial opportunities and pitfalls will be addressed, and you will learn how to read important documents like payslips, bills and bank statements. All sorts of other real-world contexts will also be taught and assessed, making this unit relevant and interesting.

Unit 2: Non-calculator

You will explore concepts where you won’t need your calculator in this unit. You will deepen your understanding of probability and explore new ideas within algebra and geometry, like quadratic graphs and circle theorems.

Unit 3: Calculator-allowed

This unit has the biggest weighting of all three units, and you can have your calculator by your side. There is lots of data handling and statistics in this unit as well as new geometry concepts such as Pythagoras’ Theorem and Trigonometry.

Skills development

• You will develop an understanding of the different areas of mathematics and how they relate to each other.
• You will extend your range of mathematical skills and techniques and be able to use and apply them to a range of real-life contexts.
• You will gain a strong foundation in financial mathematics to prepare you for life and work.

 

Careers

A Double Award GCSE in Mathematics and Numeracy can lead to a variety of career paths. These include jobs such as: financial analyst; computer programmer; engineer; medical scientist; actuary; surveyor; software developer; economist; data or research analyst; accountant; teacher; practical work in construction such as tiling, plumbing and carpentry.

How you will be assessed

The double award GCSE is assessed with three examinations. Pupils may be entered into different tiers for each unit; performance in lessons, class assessments and mock examinations will be closely monitored to ensure pupils are entered for the most appropriate tier.

Unit 1: Financial Mathematics and Other Applications of Numeracy
Weighting: 30% of the qualification

Unit 2: Non-calculator
Weighting: 30% of the qualification

Unit 3: Calculator
Weighting: 40% of the qualification

For further information, please contact Miss Duffy.