Curriculum > GCSE

GCSE Mathematics

Information

The MEI Mathematics three tier GCSE is OCR Specification B (1968)

Introduced in 2001, this is a 2-module Mathematics GCSE, covering the three tiers: Foundation, Intermediate and Higher. This specification will have final certification in June 2007 (re-sits January 2008 at Intermediate and Higher tier).

The MEI Mathematics two tier GCSE (with coursework) is OCR Specification B (J518)

This specification is for first teaching in September, 2006 and first certification in Summer, 2008; this new specification will remain in place for one year only. It is to be replaced by a similar specification (J519) which does not include coursework.

Changes from three tier to two tier

The content of the specification remains unchanged. However, because assessment is now only in two tiers, extra grades are available in each tier. Consequently, there is extra material in each tier - for Foundation to enable Grade C to be awarded and in Higher Tier to enable grade D to be awarded.

Special Features

  • The modular paper may be taken early (eg June of Year 10, January of Year 11 or an FE year).
  • Re-sitting of the modular paper is allowed with the better mark standing.
  • Candidates may complete in January.

The full specifications are published by OCR: www.ocr.org.uk

  

Resources

GCSE practice papers

Practice papers for the module paper and also the terminal paper have been published for all tiers for the 1968 and for the J518 specifications.GCSE practice papers are available for purchase on CD only.

There are two papers in each tier for each examination – a total of 8 papers. The module papers are available now and the four Terminal papers will be available in November 2007.
The following link is a word documentGCSE practice papers order form

The following competence statements are for the 1968 specification.

The following link is a word documentFoundation 1 Competence statements
The following link is a word documentFoundation 2 Competence statements
The following link is a word documentIntermediate 1 Competence statements
The following link is a word documentIntermediate 2 Competence statements
The following link is a word documentHigher 1 Competence statements
The following link is a word documentHigher 2 Competence statements

The 1968 specification includes Notes, Notation and Exclusions to accompany the Competence Statements. There is also a considerable amount of information about the scheme as a whole and its assessment.

Training

Training/presentation sessions, particularly for the Statistics coursework task, can form part of a CPD programme. Please consult Stella Dudzic for further details.

Order forms for the practice papers may be obtained from the Office.

GCSE changes

The changes to GCSE were discussed at the recent branch chairs meeting. The minutes and their appendix contain further details.