ABSTRACT
At the end of each attainment target in the National Curriculum for mathematics (DfEE/QCA 1999) there are statements about 'exceptional performance' that are intended to help teachers differentiate their work for very able pupils, typically in Key Stage 3, working in advance of Level 8. The statement for 'Using and applying mathematics' is:
Pupils give reasons for the choices they make when investigatingwithin mathematics itself or when using mathematics to analysetasks; these reasons explain why particular lines of enquiry are followed and others rejected. Pupils apply the mathematics they know in familiar and unfamiliar contexts. Pupils use mathematical language and symbols effectively in presenting a convincing reasoned argument. Their reports include mathematical justifications, explaining their solutions to problems involving a number of features or variables.
(DfEE/QCA 1999: emphasis added)