MATHEMATICS

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1. Learning Outcomes & College Mission Statement

Blackrock College’s Mission Statement:

“To provide a community environment in which each student can develop his full human potential”.

A Mathematical understanding is fundamental to surviving in the modern world and though our well-structured curricula and common exam papers we hope to facilitate this objective.

The above Educational Ethos of Blackrock College is very much in line with those quoted in Guidelines for Teachers (Junior Certificate):

HIGHER LEVEL

To provide students with:

  • A firm understanding of mathematical concepts and relationships
  • Confidence and competence in basic skills
  • The ability to formulate and solve problems
  • The ability to solve problems
  • An introduction to the idea of proof and to the role of logical argument in building up a mathematical system
  • An introduction to the idea of logical argument
  • Experience of following clear arguments and of citing evidence to support their own ideas.

“The aims and objectives are important determinants of syllabus content; but so also is the context in which the syllabuses are implemented. The most attractive syllabuses are doomed to failure if they cannot be translated into action in the classroom. With this in mind, several principles were specified in order to guide the syllabus design. They are particularly important for understanding the inclusion, exclusion, form of presentation, or intended sequencing of certain topics.”

“It is intended that mathematics education should:

  • Contribute to the personal development of the students.This aim is chiefly concerned with the students’ feelings of worth as a result of finding meaning and interest, as well as achieving success, in mathematics.
  • B. Help to provide them with the mathematical knowledge, skills and understanding needed for continuing their education, and eventually for life and work. This aim focuses on what the students will be able to do with their mathematics in the future: hence, on their ability to recognise the power of mathematics and to apply it appropriately.”