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Lochgelly High School

Maths 

Why Choose Maths?

Mathematics isn't always obvious, it hides in plain sight and underpins most of the modern world and technologies we all take for granted. It enables scientists to create vaccines and cure diseases. It enables engineers to create wind turbines and tidal generators. It enables software developers to create the apps like Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok that you use every single day. Total honesty, for some, not everything you learn in Mathematics will be used directly during your lifetime, but the ability to solve problems, persevere in the face of challenge and construct convincing arguments using your statistical and numerical skills will make you, persuasive, powerful and influential in whatever you choose to do.

Take charge of your future!

Being a Mathematical Ninja will guarantee that you avoid being mislead in life by spotting a good deal versus a bad deal and making sure your pay is accurate. You'll also be empowered with the skills to go after what you do want, from running your own business, deciding if you can afford that nice sunshine holiday or planning your savings/earnings strategy so you can build up a deposit for that 4 bedroom dream home you've always wanted. 

Whatever you decide to do with your future a strong Maths qualification is very likely to be a requirement for entry, but Maths is also a subject that builds upon itself, year after year so consistent hard work and commitment are essential. The good news is that being self-disciplined and hard working are incredible life skills, and if we're honest we all want to be described as "hardworking and determined," as opposed to someone who "takes the easy option and runs away from challenge." For some Maths will come easy, for some it will be a little bit more difficult, whichever of these categories you fall into you be welcomed into the Faculty of Mathematics and Numeracy. Be prepared to be challenged, be prepared to work hard and know that you will be well supported to achieve your absolute best.

What Courses do we Offer?

 Mathematics

Within the Mathematics course you will learn to analyse information, assess risk and make intelligence led decisions. You will solve problems in a systematic way through mathematical modelling, and then justify your conclusions with sound numerical reasoning. For those that are looking for a career in science, engineering, and architecture this is the course for you. It includes an in depth exploration of mathematical concepts including advanced algebra, trigonometry and quadratics.

Mathematics qualifications are highly valued by employers, colleges and universities. Part of the reason for that is because it takes self-discipline and hard work to achieve them. Both the Higher and National 5 courses require a commitment to regular additional study outside of class time. 

Applications of Mathematics

The Applications of Maths course seeks to explore how we can use our numerical skills in lots of different ways. In this course you will learn how to persuade people with sound, numerical arguments. Applications of Maths contains very little algebra, instead you will develop your financial skills by exploring topics including income, taxation, savings, profit/loss, and foreign exchange. You will learn to analyse, interpret and present statistics, so you can both challenge inaccurate information and present data to influence others. You will also learn how to apply Mathematics to geometric problems including scale drawing and Pythagoras Theorem.  

Applications of Mathematics qualifications are highly valued by employers, colleges and universities. Part of the reason for that is because it takes self-discipline and hard work to achieve them. The National 5 courses require a commitment to regular additional study outside of class time.