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T H E E N G L I S H N A T I O N A L P R O G R A M M E
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T H E E N G L I S H N A T I O N A L P R O G R A M M E
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As explained already, all classes experience a range of mathematical approaches. Pupils in 2nde have an external examination at the end of the year and the syllabus requirements are at the heart of the year's course. However, the emphasis of the mathematics teaching alters, particularly for the 1ère year, with far more time spent on the teacher's explanation of work and ideas to the whole class at once.
GCSE in the UK is traditionally a two-year course. As many pupils may be present for only the final year, most of the preparation (and all necessary coursework) will take place in 2nde. However, pupils having studied ENP mathematics continuously through the Collège will have completed a great deal of preparation already, particularly in 3ème .
The current syllabus is Edexcel GCSE Mathematics A 1387 (see GCSE section). Assessment is based on:
For the coursework the preparatory work consists of the projects and investigations done throughout Collège years. The two tasks take place in October and February at present.
For the examinations past GCSE examination papers are regularly used under classwork, homework and timed conditions throughout the year. A mock examination is currently taken in April. Regular revision and a series of concentrated sessions on specific topics help to update pupils' notes on all areas of the syllabus.
Entry level needs to be determined early in the third term. Those pupils most suited to Intermediate level (up to GCSE Grade B) concentrate on this work. Those aiming for the highest grades (GCSE Grades A and A*) are introduced to more advanced topics. The pupils must work at a fast pace and a lot of commitment is demanded. A significant number of pupils are capable of very high grades.
The course in Première is designed to cover the most important topics included in the pure mathematics modules at AS level. With only two hours a week given to the subject, pupils are not entered for any public exams. The aim is to give students a good knowledge and understanding of the English approach to pure mathematics at this level, which will be a great help to those pupils who go on to study mathematics or mathematics-related courses at university in English-speaking countries. Some of the topics will also be covered in Première and Terminale in French mathematics, so students will have a useful alternative approach.
The main topics covered are Algebra, Series, Trigonometry, Exponential and Logarithmic Functions, Differention and Integration. In many cases they are covered in the same depth as they would be at AS level.