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Are you a Year 11, 12, or 13 student interested in a career in the STEM industry? Join this virtual exclusive event with 6 of the world’s leading STEM companies, designed to...
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Are you a Year 11, 12, or 13 student interested in a career in the STEM industry? Join this virtual exclusive event with 6 of the world’s leading STEM companies, designed to...
Posted by Mo Abusef
I would like to thank the 310 students who took the time to send in a nomination for their ‘best teacher’ from 2024.25 at the end of the last academic year. All staff...
Posted by Jeremy Turner
Literacy in Maths: Building Stronger Mathematical Communicators In Maths we believe that literacy is just as important in maths as it is in English. Highlighting Key Words and...
Posted by Roshni Vora
If ever anyone wants proof of the value of hard work, persistence and perseverance, then look no further than the BMS Sixth Form Head Girl: Prisha Tapre. This inspirational...
Posted by Teryne Goldstone
Name: Nate House: 7Sycamore Reason for nomination: Nate has had an outstanding start to secondary school. He has demonstrated exceptional manners, a positive...
Posted by Sarah Doran
We’re pleased to share a new leaflet from Hertfordshire’s Children’s Wellbeing Practitioner (CWP) Service, outlining a series of free emotional wellbeing workshops for parents and...
Posted by Olivia De Groot
Our Year 9 students have made an excellent start to the year in Technology. This term, they have a fantastic opportunity to explore each of the Design and Technology specialisms....
Posted by Alison Hanbury
The geography department took the A level geography students to the amazing Jurrasic coast in Dorset for their annual residential field trip spending 4 days exploring this...
Posted by Iain Murray
Year 7 Day Trip to France – 18 March 2026! Calling all Year 7 studying French! We are thrilled to offer our Year 7 students an unforgettable cultural and educational adventure to...
Posted by Syeda Naqvi
We want to continue to congratulate our Student Leaders at Bushey Meads for always striving for excellence. This week the Sixth Form were able to hold Student Leadership...
Posted by Madeline Silla
Literacy in Maths: Building Stronger Mathematical Communicators
In Maths we believe that literacy is just as important in maths as it is in English.
Highlighting Key Words and Command Words
In our maths classrooms, we place a strong emphasis on the key vocabulary which are highlighted in green and command words that are highlighted in yellow that students encounter in exams and problem-solving tasks. Words like calculate, estimate, simplify, justify, and evaluate are regularly highlighted and explored, ensuring students understand exactly what is being asked of them.
By helping students decode these command words, we empower them to approach questions with clarity and confidence. For example:
We display these words in classrooms, revisit them during lessons, and encourage students to use them when writing or discussing their work.
Maths Spelling Tests
To reinforce this vocabulary, students take part in regular Maths Spelling Tests. These include commonly used mathematical terms such as:
By making literacy a key focus in maths, it helps students develop the skills they need to succeed — not just in the classroom, but in life.Students have built in a routine to highlight as they go along.
In February, 39 students from Year 11 took part in the UK Intermediate Maths Challenge. The results and certificates recently arrived, giving students the opportunity to celebrate...
Some of our Maths leaders were inspired by the weekly STEM project to explore different types of bridges. Mr Donovan will offer support to them in looking at the Mathematics...