GCSE/IGCSE Mathematics and Latin

Mathematics (Cambridge IGCSE, Edexcel (I)GCSE, OCR, AQA)

Much of the GCSE/IGCSE Maths syllabus builds upon the topics covered in Years 7-9, with a few new ones thrown in.  Thus, it is essential to have a solid foundation established for the topics previously taught; only then will new concepts developed from or linked to those topics make sense.  I studied Maths for A level and Pure Mathematics at university as a required unit.  Having taught it for many years, I am well versed with the syllabi and exam techniques required to succeed in this exam.  I am aware of the difficulties students have at GCSE level, and the methods and skills to help overcome the barriers to understanding the concepts and applying them to questions involving more than one dimension.


Latin (Cambridge IGCSE, OCR)

A solid grade in Latin GCSE/IGCSE requires not only adept language skills to translate unseen passages to English, but also a thorough knowledge of pre-studied sections of Latin prose and verse.  I focus on a rigorous approach to grammar and vocabulary learning.  With over 400 words to learn for the language papers, it is imperative that vocabulary learning is an ongoing process and not a last-minute cramming exercise.  I ensure students have a firm grasp of all the grammatical rules and constructions, and the tools with which to translate Latin into good English.  I aim to make the seemingly mundane and difficult task of learning set texts more interesting and personally relevant, rendering historical writing far more tangible.  In this way, students become familiar with the author's habits and style of writing, and can identify the stylistic features without having to rote-learn them rigidly.