Last year, QCA carried out a coursework review. Mathematics teachers who were surveyed thought that existing coursework did not provide a reliable and valid method of assessment for the subject. As a result, QCA is carrying out a further consultation on the immediate future of coursework in GCSE mathematics.

The consultation sets out options for change within the context of other changes in GCSE mathematics:

• September 2006 - introduction of a two-tier assessment model for GCSE mathematics, in place of the current three-tier, with the same mathematical content as at present. First examination 2008.
• September 2010 - two new GCSE specifications in mathematics. One of these will follow the key stage 4 programme of study, include functional mathematics and be taken by most students. It may contain internal assessment. First examination 2012.

In the light of these changes to GCSE, any change to coursework prior to 2010 resulting from this consultation will be applicable for a relatively short period: teaching from 2007-9 leading to 2009-11 examinations. When responding, please consider the relative advantages and disadvantages of making a change that will be in place for a relatively short period of time.

QCA is mindful of teachers’ concerns about multiple change. A change to coursework arrangements will therefore be recommended only if it is strongly supported by this consultation.

Current coursework requirements

The current coursework element of GCSE mathematics accounts for 20% of total marks, equally distributed between two separate tasks:

• using and applying mathematics (10%)
• handling data (10%)

The topics themselves are both regarded as important aspects of mathematics at this level. There is, however, evidence that using and applying mathematics is considered more valuable in terms of assessing skills than the data-handling exercise.

As both topics are part of the key stage 4 programme of study and are within all GCSE specifications, they will still need to be assessed in some other form if coursework is removed or reduced.

External assessment of the GCSE would need to include questions on any topics currently tested by coursework, and might be increased in length as a consequence. It also means that new sample assessment material will be required.