SAS Curriculum Pathways has launched an Algebra add-on to its science, technology, engineering and maths (Stem) subjects offering.
Aimed at 11-19-year-olds, the Algebra 1 course launches at a time when the national curriculum is under fire for not providing a well-rounded programme in key skills – particularly mathematics. The Algebra 1 course is designed to tackle some these issues through an interactive learning platform.
Relevant to secondary-level maths, key stages three to five, Algebra 1 guides students though basic equation solving, exploring functions, systems of linear equations, and solving and graphing quadratic functions.
Focusing on core Stem subjects, SAS Curriculum Pathways is free for secondary school teachers and students. Designed for both GCSE and A-level students, the online resource includes interactive tools, web lessons, enquiries and audio tutorials. More than 150 UK schools have signed up for SAS Curriculum Pathways since it was launched in March 2012.
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An estimated 15 million adults in the UK have numeracy skills equivalent to or below those of an 11-year-old, according to a study by KPMG. The lack of numeracy skills in this country is costing the UK up to 2.4bn a year, the survey revealed.
Geoffrey Taylor, academic programme manager at SAS UK and Ireland, said the figures were concerning.
"With the growing amount of big data being generated, a strong numerical understanding is vital for providing the basis for many careers within the growing business analytics sector, an area where SAS is a market leader," he said.
"Algebra 1 is providing students with the building blocks to develop a key understanding of maths, which may help to produce the analysts of the future for SAS and its clients."
