A-level Mathematics

Mathematics

A-level Mathematics provides a thorough grounding in the mathematical tools and techniques often needed in the workplace. It provides a foundation for further studies in a variety of subjects including Science, Engineering and Economics. The logic and reasoning skills developed by studying A-level Mathematics makes sure the qualification is widely respected even in non-mathematical areas.

Entry Requirements

A good base in Mathematics is essential – preferably grade 7 or above at GCSE (or equivalent) – along with an enthusiastic interest in the subject and a determination to work hard.

To progress on to the second year of Mathematics, it is important that you have satisfactorily completed the AS course.

Course Content

Pure Mathematics makes up two thirds of the AS and A-level qualification and provides techniques in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus that form the fundamental building blocks of the subject.

Mathematical applications make up the remaining third of the qualification and these are compulsory for every examination board. These are Mechanics and Statistics:

• Mechanics: forces, energy, motion
• Statistics: probability, correlation, hypothesis testing

Assessment

AS Level Mathematics (after one year of study) is internally assessed.

A-level Mathematics (after two years of study) consists of three papers:

• Paper 1 (2 hours) – Pure Mathematics
• Paper 2 (2 hours) – Pure Mathematics
• Paper 3 (2 hours) – Mechanics and Statistics

Graphical calculators are allowed in all units and we recommend and teach with the Casio fx-CG50 calculator. Students will become confident at using their complex calculators in addition to thinking things through independently. The exam board is Edexcel.

Where Does it Lead?

The everyday use of arithmetic and the display of information by means of graphs are all around us; these are the obvious aspects of mathematics. Advanced mathematics is widely used, but often in an unseen and unadvertised way.

Mathematics is at the heart of all of today’s advancements in science and technology and is contributing to progress in other fields such as computer science, industrial and architectural design, economics, biology, linguistics and psychology. Studying mathematics can provide you with a competitive advantage in many fields. An undergraduate degree in mathematics can also give you a firm foundation for further study in a variety of other disciplines.