OCR GCSE Maths specification (J560)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your OCR GCSE Maths exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official OCR GCSE Maths specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official OCR GCSE Maths (J560) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official OCR specification PDF.
Specification overview
AQA GCSE Mathematics provides students with a foundation in mathematical principles and methods, developing logical reasoning, problem-solving, and analytical thinking. The course supports learners in applying mathematics confidently to everyday contexts and further academic study. It covers a wide range of topics, promoting fluency in computation, use of algebra, interpretation of data, and understanding of geometric concepts. Emphasis is placed on developing mathematical argument, vocabulary, and proof.
Subject content breakdown
1. Number
- Place value, ordering, rounding, and bounds
- Integers, fractions, decimals, percentages, and their interconversion
- Index laws, powers, roots, surds, standard form
- Calculations with and without a calculator, estimation, prime factorisation
2. Algebra
- Expressions, formulae, equations and identities
- Sequences: linear, quadratic and special sequences
- Solving equations and inequalities algebraically and graphically
- Graphs of functions: linear, quadratic, cubic, reciprocal, exponential
- Rearranging, factorising, and manipulating algebraic expressions
3. Ratio, proportion and rates of change
- Using ratio notation and simplifying ratios
- Direct and inverse proportion
- Percentages: increase, decrease, reverse and compound
- Rates of change, unit conversions, compound units (speed, density, pressure)
4. Geometry and measures
- Properties of angles, triangles, quadrilaterals, and circles
- Transformations: reflection, rotation, enlargement, translation
- Constructions and loci
- Pythagoras’ Theorem and trigonometric ratios
- Perimeter, area, volume, surface area, units and scale drawings
- Vectors and geometric proof
5. Probability
- Basic probability, relative frequency, experimental vs theoretical
- Venn diagrams, tree diagrams, sample spaces
- Independent and dependent events
6. Statistics
- Statistical charts: bar, pie, pictograms, scatter graphs, frequency polygons
- Averages and measures of spread: mean, median, mode, range
- Grouped data, cumulative frequency, box plots, histograms
Assessment structure
Paper 1 – Non-Calculator
- 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks
- Assesses all content areas
- No calculator allowed
- 33⅓% of total GCSE
Paper 2 – Calculator
- 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks
- Assesses all content areas
- Calculator allowed
- 33⅓% of total GCSE
Paper 3 – Calculator
- 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks
- Assesses all content areas
- Calculator allowed
33⅓% of total GCSE
- Available at Foundation tier (grades 1–5) and Higher tier (grades 4–9)
- Formulae sheet provided in all papers
- Questions range from short procedural to extended problem-solving
- Assessment objectives: AO1 (use and apply), AO2 (reason and interpret), AO3 (solve problems)
Key tips for success
Doing well in your OCR GCSE Maths isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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