Mathematics – National 4 & 5

mathsn51

Mathematics is important in everyday life, allowing us to make sense of the world around us and to manage our lives. Using mathematics enables us to model real-life situations and make connections and informed predictions. It equips us with the skills we need to interpret and analyse information, simplify and solve problems, assess risk, and make informed decisions.

Aims of the Course

National 4 and 5 Mathematics courses are designed to develop the learner’s skills in using mathematical language, to explore mathematical ideas, and to develop skills relevant to learning, life and work in an engaging and enjoyable way. It will build on prior learning and develop:

operational skills in algebra, geometry, trigonometry and statistics
reasoning skills of investigation, problem solving, analysis and modelling
numeracy skills in number processes and information handling

Course Content

This Course will develop skills for further learning, as well as skills for life and work. The course consists of three mandatory units.

Mathematics: Expressions and Formulae – develops skills linked to straightforward mathematical expressions and These include the manipulation of abstract terms, the simplification of expressions and the evaluation of formulae. The Outcomes cover aspects of algebra, geometry, statistics and reasoning.
Mathematics: Relationships – develops skills linked to straightforward mathematical These include solving equations, understanding graphs and working with trigonometric ratios. The Outcomes cover aspects of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics and reasoning.
Numeracy (National 4) – develops learners’ numerical and information handling skills to solve straightforward, real-life problems involving number, money, time and As learners tackle real-life problems, they will decide what numeracy skills to use and how to apply these skills to an appropriate level of accuracy. Learners will also interpret graphical data and use their knowledge and understanding of probability to identify solutions to straightforward real-life problems involving money, time and measurement. Learners will use their solutions to make and explain decisions.
Applications (National 5) – this Unit allows pupils to further develop knowledge and skills in geometry, trigonometry and statistics which can readily be applied to solving real-life

Skills

This Course will develop learners’ ability to:

understand and use straightforward mathematical concepts and relationships
select and apply straightforward operational skills in algebra, geometry, trigonometry and statistics within familiar mathematical contexts
select and apply straightforward skills in numeracy
use straightforward mathematical models
use mathematical reasoning skills to interpret information presented in straightforward ways, to select a strategy to solve a problem, and to communicate solutions

Methodology

A wide range of learning and teaching approaches is used in the department. These include direct teaching, investigative work and use of TI-nspire handheld technology. The course is designed to allow many opportunities for collaboration and active learning.

Assessment

For both National 4 and National 5 courses pupils are required to produce evidence for each unit; this will mostly be in the form of Unit tests which will be set to assess skills. These will be marked internally.

To achieve an award at National 4 pupils will also be expected to pass an internal exam at the end of the course called an Added value unit. This is assessed on a pass/fail basis. National 4 is not graded.

To achieve an award at National 5 pupils will be assessed on the whole course. This will take the form of an external examination. The Course Assessment will consist of two Components: a question paper titled Paper 1 (Non-Calculator), and a question paper titled Paper 2. A calculator may be used for Paper 2. National 5 is graded A – D.

Homework

Homework will be issued regularly. Some homework tasks will be investigative and will require research using ICT. National 5 pupils will also be issued with a formal ink exercise on a regular basis.

Possible Progression Routes

National 4 –secure understanding of the experiences and outcomes at level 3 is required to progress to National 4 and a pass in National 4 Mathematics allows the pupil to progress on to National 5
National 5 – A secure understanding of the experiences and outcomes at level 4 or a pass at National 4 is required to progress to National 5 and a pass in National 5 Mathematics allows the pupil to progress on to Higher

How Can You Help?

Doing the following will help your child to become more skilled in Mathematics:

Take an interest in your childs classwork and homework and encourage them to apply these skills in other
Purchase a Scientific calculator allowing your child to become familiar with its functions and confident in using it to help solve
Check your child’s homework is of a good standard before it is
Encourage you child to use the mymaths website to revise and consolidate