Topic checks
Short checks at the end of each block, with feedback and a reflection task.
BGE · S1
S1 Mathematics – Level 3
Taking the first steps into secondary mathematics.
- CfE Third Level
- 4 units
- 8 practice questions
- 6 key dates
Overview
About this course
The S1 Level 3 course introduces pupils to the Third Level experiences and outcomes. Learners meet algebra formally for the first time, develop their reasoning with negative numbers and fractions, and begin to explain and justify their mathematical thinking. The course is designed with a clear pathway towards National 5 in mind.
Course structure
What your child will learn
The course is organised into 4 units. Topics are usually taught in the order shown, though teachers may adapt the sequence for their class. Select a unit to see its topics.
1 Number5 topics
- Integers – all four operations
- Order of operations (BODMAS)
- Rounding to decimal places
- Fractions – add, subtract, multiply
- Percentages with and without a calculator
2 Introduction to Algebra5 topics
- Using letters for unknowns
- Collecting like terms
- Substituting into expressions
- Solving one and two-step equations
- Simple sequences and nth term
3 Shape & Measure5 topics
- Angles – parallel lines and triangles
- Area of triangles and composite shapes
- Volume of cuboids
- Scale drawing and bearings
- Coordinates in all four quadrants
4 Statistics & Probability5 topics
- Averages from frequency tables
- Pie charts and line graphs
- Scatter graphs and correlation
- Probability as a fraction
- Interpreting data critically
Assessment
How the course is assessed
Termly assessments
Three graded assessments reported home with a next-steps comment.
Problem-solving task
One extended problem-solving task per term, assessed against CfE benchmarks.
Assessment practice
Practise for forthcoming assessments
8 questions worth 15 marks, matched to the assessments on this course. Try each question on paper first, then select it to reveal the worked solution. You can also print a blank set for revision.
Set 1 · October
Integers & Order of Operations Assessment
-
Q1
Calculate (−7) − (−12).
1 markShow solution
Solution
−7 + 12 = 5.
-
Q2
Evaluate 4 + 3 × (8 − 5)².
2 marksShow solution
Solution
8 − 5 = 3; 3² = 9; 3 × 9 = 27; 4 + 27 = 31.
-
Q3
Calculate 2⁄3 + 1⁄4.
2 marksShow solution
Solution
8⁄12 + 3⁄12 = 11⁄12.
-
Q4
A jacket costing £68 is reduced by 15%. Find the sale price.
3 marksShow solution
Solution
15% of £68 = £10.20; £68 − £10.20 = £57.80.
Set 2 · March
Algebra Assessment
-
Q1
Simplify 5a + 3b − 2a + 7b.
1 markShow solution
Solution
3a + 10b.
-
Q2
If p = 4 and q = −2, evaluate 3p − 2q.
2 marksShow solution
Solution
3(4) − 2(−2) = 12 + 4 = 16.
-
Q3
Solve 4x − 7 = 21.
2 marksShow solution
Solution
4x = 28, so x = 7.
-
Q4
Find the nth term of the sequence 5, 8, 11, 14, …
2 marksShow solution
Solution
Common difference 3; 3n + 2.
Key dates
Important dates for this course
Session 2025–26. Dates marked * are indicative pending the official SQA timetable; items marked TBC will be updated as soon as they are confirmed. Select “+ cal” on any date to add it to your own calendar.
- Prelim
- SQA Exam
- Parents' Evening
- Assessment
- Information
w/c 20 Oct 2025
Number block assessment
w/c 15 Dec 2025
Term 1 progress report issued
Thu 5 Mar 2026
S1 Parents' Evening
w/c 16 Mar 2026
Algebra block assessment
w/c 18 May 2026
End-of-year assessment
Jun 2026
Course recommendations for S2 issued
Progression
Where this course leads
Pupils progress to S2 Level 3 or, where ready, S2 Level 4.
Useful resources
Go further
More in the BGE
Other courses you might be looking for
S1 Level 2
CfE Second Level
Securing the foundations with confidence.
S2 Level 3
CfE Third Level
Deepening understanding and building independence.
S2 Level 4
CfE Fourth Level
Accelerating towards National 5 and beyond.
S3 → National 4
CfE Third/Fourth Level → SCQF 4
Practical maths with a clear route to qualification.
Have a question about S1 Level 3?
The department is happy to help — we reply within two working days.