Mathematics
A Level studied at all schools
WATCH THE VIDEO TO FIND OUT ABOUT STUDYING MATHS
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED TO START THE COURSE
To find out what qualifications are needed for each pathway/entry route click here.
8 or above in mathematics
Students who achieve a 6 or 7 in mathematics may be accepted. They will have to take a short algebra test at enrolment in order to assess their suitability for the course.
COURSE SPECIFICATION
Both year 12 and year 13 will cover pure maths, mechanics and statistics.
Pure mathematics covers: proof, algebra, trigonometry, co-ordinate geometry, functions and graphs, sequences and series, differentiation, integration, logarithms, numerical methods and vectors.
Statistics covers: representation and summary of data, probability, correlation and regression, discrete random variables, discrete and normal distributions and hypothesis testing.
Mechanics covers: forces & Newton’s laws, kinematics and moments.
LEARNING AND SKILLS
Seeing patterns and generalising them.
Communicating mathematically.
Choosing the level you need to work at for each unit.
Listening to class teacher and filling in the gaps in handouts to provide yourself with a good set of notes.
Solving problems individually, in pairs or in small groups.
Using matching and modelling activities to help you learn.
Using graphics calculator or appropriate computer software.
Use of large data set in statistics.
Taking part in discussions.
Doing experiments or collecting and interpret data.
Presenting or explaining your findings to the rest of the class.
Watching demonstrations from your teachers or peers.
Investigating open ended problems.
EXAMINATION AND ASSESSMENT
EXAM BOARD: EDEXCEL
|
Unit |
Type of Assessment |
Duration |
Weighting |
|
Paper 1 – Pure Maths |
Examination in Y13 |
2-hours |
1/3 |
|
Paper 2 – Pure Maths |
Examination in Y13 |
2-hours |
1/3 |
|
Paper 3 – Statistics and Mechanics |
Examination in Y13 |
2-hours |
1/3 |
FUTURE PROSPECTS
Useful for all sciences, engineering, computer science, economics, architecture and many others.
Provides a basis for further study in mathematics.
Students studying science or contemplating a university course with mathematical content should seriously consider studying maths.