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Mathematics - GCSE Level

Higher or Foundation?

As a pupil nears the GCSE years it becomes quite clear to a member of staff which of the two Mathematics levels is best suited to the pupil. There are various reasons for this choice. One of the main points to consider is the level of ability of the pupil. As they are continually assessed internally this is quite easily measured. If assessments show that a pupil is of an A* to B grade level then they will follow the Higher Level syllabus. If a pupil is of a C or below level then they will follow the Foundation Level.

The difficulty comes when a pupil is of B/C level as the difference between the two specifications is extensive. Two factors then need to be considered: first, is whether the pupil is going to be committed to following the Higher Level course and secondly is whether the pupil is going to be overwhelmed by the more difficult topics. If the staff recommend that it would be in the best interest of the pupil to follow the Foundation Level it will be after considering these points carefully. A further key factor is the need to guard against the pupil actually failing to gain a grade by following the Higher Level specification as this level is only marked for grades A* - C and therefore there is a danger of a pupil being ungraded. All decisions are made to try to give each student the best possible chance of achieving their highest possible grade.