Making the most of maths
HE head of department for maths and physical science at Effingham Secondary believes the papers set by the Department of Education have been a fair reflection of the matric syllabus.
Pavi Govindasamy was also of the view that that the subjects were being tested in accordance with the Currilulum Assessment Policy Statements (Caps) syllabus.
“Maths and science pose a great challenge. But I am proud that teachers are doing their utmost to face the challenges.
“But as much as preparation is being done, some learners are not playing their part in preparing for the exams.”
She said they had a fairly small number – 22 pupils – enrolled for physical science, 79 for maths literacy and 67 for pure maths.
In the June exam, 72% of pupils passed physics, 88% passed maths literacy and 80% passed pure maths.
“This was at a 40% pass mark.”
Govindasamy said they were aiming for a higher percentage pass and now that the syllabus was complete, were going over revision and, past years’ papers.
She said their school had opted to write department papers for both terms so pupils would get a better feel of what was like to write an external exam.
“The Caps curriculum is vast and the challenge was getting the work completed timeously.
“The exams have got progressively more difficult.”
Meanwhile matric pupils will write their maths paper on October 28, four days after the start of the final exam, followed by paper 2 on October 31.
Physics will be written on November 4.
BHENISHA RAMCHERITHA, 17, of Effingham, described the workload as “crazy” for maths and physics.
“It’s stressful, but I get enough sleep and don’t overwork.”
She plans on studying neuro-psychology.
KIASHA PILLAY, 17, of Effingham, said while the workload had increased, she was pleased that her marks in maths and physics had improved from the first term.
“I received a distinction in the June exam for maths. One of the secrets for maths is doing things repetitively.”
She plans to study mechanical engineering.
SHAUR MAHABEER, 17, of Effingham, said time was a huge factor this year.
“The amount of time to learn and study is way too short. But I think tuition and early preparation has been key to success in these subjects.”
Shaur plans to study for a BCom.
ABHAY JAGDOE, 18, of Sea Cow Lake, said he adored maths
“I love it. I have really grown to love the subject. I was terrible at maths. Then one day I started learning this section in geometry and enjoyed it.
“I then decided to change my attitude towards the subject and grew to love it.”
Abhay plans to study civil engineering.
JONATHAN BANZA, 18, of the Durban CBD, said extra tuition in maths and physics had helped him cope with the workload. He said the pressure was on as finals approached.
“I recently decided that I wanted to study towards a BCom degree. I don’t really need physics, but I’m glad I studied it so I can keep my options open.”