Templeogue College has always placed a strong emphasis on the teaching of mathematics, and we seek to continue this tradition as a department. A number of our pupils continue to study mathematics in various forms at third level. With that in mind we aim to give them the best grounding possible in the subject. We view mathematics as a vital subject and a way for all pupils to develop tools for everyday life and the skills necessary to become problem solvers and critical thinkers.
Class Groupings
We have common mixed ability classes in 1st year. Our classes are then realigned in 2nd year using common exams during 1st year. These classes will be retained for the duration of the Junior Cycle. In Senior Cycle students will be placed in a class that is appropriate for their ability. These classes are formed based on Junior Cycle results and the students’ application in Transition Year. Our aim is to ensure all students fulfill their mathematical potential.
Parents and students should be aware of the following when considering the study of Mathematics at Higher Level for the Leaving Certificate exam.
- The Higher Level syllabus is very long and time consuming. It places significant demands on the Leaving Certificate student and requires a huge commitment in terms of time and effort.
- There is a vast difference in the study of Mathematics at Higher Level for Junior Cycle and the Study of Mathematics at Higher Level for Leaving Certificate.
- Several Institutes of Technologies and Universities offer an in-house Maths exam in August of Leaving Cert year (after the results are published) should you not achieve the grade required for your course in that 3rd level institution.
Examinations:
Classroom based exams: Where possible we aim for common exams at the Christmas, Easter and Summer exams. These exams will vary in length according to the year group. We also have tests at regular intervals throughout the year in each class.
State exams:
Junior Cycle: One 2 hour paper to be taken in June and one CBA which will be submitted before the conclusion of 3rd year.
Senior Cycle: Two 2.5 hour papers to be taken in June, no classroom based assessments in Senior Cycle.
Additional information
External Competitions: Pupils are encouraged to take part in extra-curricular mathematics activities such as the International Mathematics Olympiad and the IMTA annual quiz. In 2025, one of our first year students placed in the top 50 of the Irish Junior Maths Competition, there were 14,000 competitors.