CHOICES AT 14+ : Mathematics
Courses and Levels of Certification
Standard Grade Mathematics at Credit, General and Foundation levels. Intermediate 1 and Access 3 Mathematics.
Content of the Standard Grade Courses
The content is wide and varied, building on previous knowledge, but includes work on number, shape, measurement, statistics, algebra and an introduction to trigonometry. There is an emphasis on using mental skills in calculation but pupils will also continue to make appropriate use of the scientific calculator. The graphic calculator is a very useful tool in the understanding of many aspects of mathematics and classes will have access to these where appropriate.
Assessment
The Standard Grade courses feature ongoing formative assessment as an integral part of learning and teaching in mathematics classrooms.
SQA external examination to assess:
- Knowledge and Understanding
- Reasoning and enquiry
The examinations comprise two papers; a non-calculator paper and a paper where a calculator may be used.
Content of the Intermediate1 / Access 3 Course
The Access 3 course includes work on money and number calculations that are relevant to everyday life. Work on shape and measurement, as they relate to real life, 
also feature. The course also includes some algebra to encourage more abstract thinking skills.
The content of the Intermediate course reflects the bulk of that which is in the Standard Grade Course at Credit and General levels. However, the lesser content and the different way in which it is assessed provide a more accessable advance to the next level of mathematics for many pupils.
Assessment
Access 3 is assessed internally. The successful completion of all three units of work merits a course award, which is presented by certification from the SQA.
The method of assessment for the Intermediate 1 course is as described for Access 3 with the addition of an externally administered SQA examination in May. The examinations comprise both a non-calculator paper and a paper where a calculator may be used.
Career Relevance
Mathematics permeates all areas of our lives. Hence demonstration of ability in mathematics is a requirement of many potential employers. The choice of college courses is widened for candidates who have a qualification in mathematics. Skill in more advanced mathematics is necessary in many areas of higher education and for most scientific and technological careers.