The LGfL Maths Squad launched in September 2020 and offers a unique blend of online learning resources, unique secure mock content compiled by the foremost expert in the field of GCSE maths assessment and bespoke consultancy support for LGfL schools.
Further details can be viewed at mathsquad.lgfl.net
Maths Squad - January 2021
The start to the new term in 2021 was probably not what any of us were expecting but the LGfL Maths Squad is available to all LGfL schools to help you with whatever new assessment procedures are put in place for the summer.
At the time of writing, those procedures are uncertain - we've had exams scrapped, but stories have been circulating about mini-exams, set or marked by either teachers or exam boards or a combination of the two - nothing is clear quite yet.
However, we are committed to helping all schools who have signed up with the LGfL Maths Squad service, particularly if evidence comes to be required for validating Centre Assessed Grades.
Here are some of the other things we're doing:
1) The Blutick Platform - Now available free to all LGfL Maths Squad schools
We're increasing the use of the online Blutick system. We've already made provision for this in the short term by getting an online mock assessment developed for the Blutick platform for students to take during lockdown.
We are also aiming to have some relevant courses ready from the normal Blutick package for all year groups at secondary level. Online assessment may yet prove to be a very important part of what happens in the summer.
To sign up for the Blutick platform in your school - email mathsquad@lgfl.net
2) Support for collecting evidence
We're developing best practice on how to collect evidence for pupils CAGs (Centre Assessed Grades) using online platforms. Clearly Blutick will be one component of this but most secondary schools are using Google or Microsoft to deliver their online curriculum and we have already started on working on resources that will be available within these platforms.
To receive expert advice and guidance regarding GCSE examination assessment and related issues - email mathsquad@lgfl.net
3) Focussed support for identified common issues
Based on the results of the secure mocks that have been taken by students so far, we can make sure of some specific activities and ideas to aid schools with those questions which pupils seemed to find particularly difficult.
If we can offer you any additional support at this pressured time for both teachers and students, just get in touch via mathsquad@lgfl.net
Best wishes,
Grahame Smart and Graham Cumming
on behalf of the LGfL Maths Squad Team
