GCSE Maths Student Revision Notes

The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) is the qualification taken in a students last years of high school. Usually, students between the ages of 14-16 years take it. Click for more information about studying GCSE Maths

The pattern of exam:

The exam is conducted in 2 tiers: foundation tier and higher tier. Foundation tier is conducted for students of grades 1-5. Students in grades 4-9 appear for the higher tier. Each tier consists of 3 papers. Each paper is for 1hr 30 minutes. Each paper carries 80 marks and accounts for 33.09% of the whole assessment.

One paper is known as the non-calculator paper. In this, you are not allowed to carry a calculator. Other stationery items are allowed. Questions asked ranged from short-answer single step problems to multi-step questions. The difficulty level increases as you progress the question paper. Two questions papers are known as calculator papers. You are allowed to use the calculator here. Here also, the questions can be a single-step or multi-step.

The motto of the exam:

The motto of GCSE mathematics assessment is to:

Equip students with a deep knowledge of mathematics and mathematical formulae,
Allow them to apply it in real-life situations,
Develop logical thinking and be able to communicate their mathematical knowledge in an easily understandable way.

What do I have to study In GCSE maths and what skills do I learn?

While studying GCSE mathematics, you learn the following:

Number

Structure and calculation
Fraction, decimals and percentages
Measures and accuracy

Algebra

Notation, vocabulary, and manipulation
Graphs
Solving equations and inequalities
Sequences

Ratio, proportion, and rates of change

Geometry and measures

Properties and constructions

Mensuration and calculation
Vectors

Probability
Statistics

What skills do I learn in GCSE mathematics?

Basics of the mathematical formulae, their derivation, and manipulation
Application of mathematical formulae in real-life situations
Problem-solving skills for complex equations.

Why should I take this exam?

Mathematics is an essential life-skill. No matter what profession you choose, maths is needed. Its importance is higher if you plan to be an engineer, CA, analyst, business owner or a maths teacher. If you do not know the basics of maths, you fail to understand physics and chemistry too. These two subjects are closely entwined with maths.

What is the outcome of clearing this exam?

Most prestigious colleges and universities admit students who have proficiency in mathematics. A higher tier GCSE certification proves your mettle in maths and opens up several career avenues.

Is this exam tough?

No, it is not a tough exam. If you practice regularly and devote yourself to its preparation, it is not tough at all. However, you should properly assess your abilities and preparation before opting for the exam tier. Teachers always suggest to first go for the foundation tier. Its syllabus is easier and lets a student equip themselves with the exam pattern. Once you gain enough expertise, go for the higher tier exam.

Here are some tips to crack this exam:

Practice with the timer on. It will help you with time management.
Be patient. If you do not understand a concept, take help from teachers.
Do not panic. It is just an exam. If you do not get the desired grade, you can try next time.

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