Mathematics
- Course Overview
- Assessment & Examination
- Resources
- Prior Knowledge
- Beyond The Course
- Entry Requirements
Course Overview
In studying mathematics, you will learn to build on your prior knowledge of algebraic, numerical and geometrical processes and implement these further, also within the applied areas of statistics and mechanics. You will learn how these can be applied in context, and will develop an understanding and appreciation of the fundamental importance of maths in the world around us.
There are three main strands to the course, pure maths, which makes up two thirds of the content, and statistics and mechanics, which comprise the other one third of the course. The pure maths element of the course covers mostly algebraic techniques, also including trigonometry and calculus. The statistics element of the course covers data collection, processing and representing data and interpretation of these results. The mechanics element is the study of the geometry of movement, kinematics.
Assessment & Examination
You will sit three 2 hour examinations at the end of the course, each being worth 100 marks, and counting for one third of the A Level.
Papers 1 and 2 - these are synoptic papers that could contain any topic from the pure maths content.
Paper 3 - this is a synoptic paper which may cover any topic from the Statistics content in section A, and covering any topic from the Mechanics content in section B.
A permitted calculator may be used for each paper.
Resources
It is essential that you have an appropriate calculator to study this maths course (one such example is the Casio fx-991EX Classwiz). In addition, you will need basic maths stationery to complete tasks set both in lesson and as homework assignments.
Prior Knowledge
You will need very good knowledge and understanding of the GCSE maths content in order to access the A Level Mathematics course. Upon acceptance on to the course, you will be provided with a prior knowledge booklet which should be completed prior to and during the first few weeks of your A Level studies.
Beyond The Course
The reformed A Level in Mathematics will prepare you to apply mathematical techniques in many different fields. Mathematics is useful in all careers, especially those related to engineering, business, economics, accountancy and the sciences. The destinations that can be accessed by those who have achieved a good qualification in maths are as vast as they are exciting.
Entry Requirements
At least GCSE Level 6 in Mathematics.
Entry to Sixth Form also requires:
- GCSE Level 5 in English Language or English Literature;
- Four other GCSEs at Level 5, in addition to English and Maths.