Cracking the code: Mastering maths skills in GCSE science assessments

This CPD session equips science teachers with the tools to confidently teach and assess the mathematical skills embedded in GCSE science. From interpreting data to calculating rates and rearranging equations, students often struggle not with the science, but with the maths. This session helps teachers identify key maths demands, address common misconceptions, and integrate numeracy seamlessly into science lessons. The session will investigate the mathematical requirements of the GCSE science curriculum, highlighting high-frequency skills and where students typically lose marks. Teachers will explore through a range of activities real exam questions and mark schemes to uncover patterns and pitfalls and explore how to best support their students in preparing for them. By the end of this session, participants will be able to: > Identify the core mathematical skills assessed in GCSE science papers. > Analyse common student errors and misconceptions in science-related calculations. > Design or adapt tasks that build fluency and confidence in applying maths in science.