Welcome to Basic 9
congratulations on reaching this important milestone in your academic journey! As part of our Byfotech Online Mathematics Class, you’re about to embark on an exciting and crucial phase of your mathematics education.
This class is specially designed to follow the GES New Syllabus for JHS 3, ensuring that you are well-prepared not only for school assessments but also for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). We will cover everything from algebra, geometry, and trigonometry to statistics, probability, and much more, using engaging and interactive lessons to enhance your understanding.
Through this online course, you’ll gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in mathematics, all while learning at your own pace and with the support of experienced tutors. We’re here to ensure you succeed, and we look forward to guiding you on this final stage of your JHS math journey! Let’s get started! For any Clarification and Enquiries contact us
The New GES Basic 9 (JHS 3) Mathematics Curriculum is designed to equip students with the essential mathematical skills and understanding necessary for everyday life and to lay the foundation for further education, especially in preparation for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
The curriculum follows the Standards-Based Curriculum (SBC) introduced by the Ghana Education Service (GES), aiming to develop competencies in mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, critical thinking, and application of mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios.
Below is a comprehensive explanation of the curriculum, broken down by key areas:
1. Number and Numeration: This strand focuses on deepening students’ understanding of numbers, their properties, and operations. Topics include: Number Operations: Reinforcement of the four basic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) involving whole numbers, fractions, and decimals. Order of operations (BODMAS): Emphasis on the correct sequence of operations. Fractions, Decimals, and Percentages:Conversion between fractions, decimals, and percentages.Operations with fractions and decimals, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.Solving real-life problems involving percentages (e.g., discounts, interest rates, and profit/loss).Ratio and Proportion:Understanding the concept of ratio and proportion.Solving problems involving direct and inverse proportions.Real-life applications like scale drawings, recipes, and map reading.
2. Algebra plays a significant role in transitioning students from arithmetic to abstract mathematical thinking. In JHS 3, algebra topics include:Expressions and Equations:Simplifying algebraic expressions by combining like terms and using the distributive property.Solving linear equations and inequalities in one variable.Solving simultaneous linear equations in two variables (algebraic and graphical methods).Substitution and Formulae:Substituting values into algebraic expressions and formulae.Rearranging formulae to make a specific variable the subject.Sequences:Introduction to arithmetic and geometric sequences.Finding the nth term of an arithmetic sequence.
3. Geometry and Trigonometry: This area helps students understand spatial relationships and the properties of geometric shapes and figures. Topics include:Plane Geometry: Properties of polygons (triangles, quadrilaterals, pentagons, etc.). Angles in polygons (including interior and exterior angles).Construction of angles and simple shapes using a protractor and compass.Circles:Parts of a circle (radius, diameter, chord, arc, sector, etc.). <Calculating the circumference and area of circles. Theorems related to circles (e.g., angle subtended by an arc at the center is twice the angle subtended at the circumference). Mensuration: Calculating the perimeter, area, and volume of 2D and 3D shapes (rectangles, triangles, circles, cylinders, prisms, etc.).Application of formulas to solve real-world problems (e.g., finding the surface area and volume of a water tank). Trigonometry:Introduction to the basic trigonometric ratios: sine, cosine, and tangent.Using trigonometric ratios to solve problems involving right-angled triangles.Practical applications such as finding heights and distances.
4. Statistics and Probability: This strand emphasizes data collection, analysis, and interpretation, along with understanding and calculating probabilities:Data Handling and Representation:Collecting, organizing, and displaying data using bar charts, pie charts, histograms, and line graphs.Interpretation of data from various representations (graphs, tables, etc.).Calculation of mean, median, and mode as measures of central tendency.Probability: Understanding the concept of probability as the measure of the likelihood of an event occurring.Calculation of simple probability (e.g., tossing coins, rolling dice).Real-life applications of probability (e.g., predicting weather, sports events, etc.).
5. Mensuration: Mensuration in JHS 3 involves the measurement of 2D and 3D objects. This includes:Perimeter, Area, and Volume:Calculating the perimeter and area of 2D shapes like triangles, rectangles, and circles.Finding the volume of 3D shapes like cuboids, cylinders, and prisms.Applying the concepts of perimeter, area, and volume to solve practical problems (e.g., calculating the amount of paint required to cover a wall). Composite Figures:Finding the area of composite shapes by breaking them into simpler parts. Calculating the volume of composite solids.
6. Transformation and Symmetry: This strand helps students understand movement and manipulation of shapes in a plane, as well as the concepts of symmetry: Transformations: Types of transformations: translation, reflection, rotation, and enlargement. Drawing and identifying images and pre-images under these transformations. Understanding the properties of transformations (e.g., translation preserves shape and size, while enlargement changes size but not shape).Symmetry:Line and rotational symmetry in 2D shapes.Identifying lines of symmetry in regular polygons. Determining the order of rotational symmetry.
7. Sets and LogicSets and logic form the foundation for more advanced mathematical reasoning and problem-solving:Sets:Defining a set and understanding set notation (e.g., union, intersection, subset). Working with Venn diagrams to solve problems involving sets.Applications of set theory in solving real-world problems (e.g., survey analysis).Logic:Introduction to basic logical operations (AND, OR, NOT). Constructing truth tables and using logical connectives to form statements.
Teaching and Learning Approaches
The New GES Mathematics Curriculum promotes: Activity-based learning: Students engage in practical and hands-on activities to explore mathematical concepts.bProblem-solving: Emphasis on solving real-life problems using mathematical techniques. Collaborative learning: Encourages group work and peer-to-peer interaction for better understanding.Critical thinking: Students are encouraged to analyze and reflect on problems before solving them.
Assessment
Formative Assessment:
Continuous assessment throughout the year, including class tests, quizzes, assignments, and projects, to track students’ progress.
Summative Assessment:
End-of-term exams, including mock exams to prepare students for the BECE, which focuses on problem-solving, application of concepts, and higher-order thinking skills.—The New GES Basic 9 (JHS 3) Mathematics Curriculum is designed not only to help students pass their exams but also to ensure that they develop a strong foundation in mathematical reasoning, logic, and problem-solving, which are crucial for success in higher education and everyday life.
