Mathematics

Examination Board: Edexcel

In Mathematics A Level, you will extend your mathematical knowledge and skills and learn about new areas of Mathematics such as calculus.

 

For the AS Level you will study:

• Pure mathematics (proof, algebra, functions, coordinate geometry, sequences, series, trigonometry, exponentials,  logarithms, differentiation, integration and vectors).
• Mechanics (measures, kinematics, forces and Newton’s laws).
• Statistics (sampling, representing data, interpreting data, probability, distributions and hypothesis testing).

For the A Level you will study:

All of the AS Level topics in greater detail plus some additional topics (in italics below):

• Pure mathematics (proof, algebra, functions, coordinate geometry, sequences, series, trigonometry, exponentials, logarithms, differentiation, integration, vectors and numerical methods).
• Mechanics (measures, kinematics, forces, Newton’s laws and moments).
• Statistics (sampling, representing data, interpreting data, probability, distributions and hypothesis testing).

How is the course assessed?

This course is assessed by examination only. You will take a separate AS examination at the end of Year 12 but your result will not count towards your final A Level award. A Level examinations take place at the end of Year 13 when you are assessed on topics covered in both years.

What skills will I need and develop in this course?

You will need to be confident in all the algebraic processing skills and trigonometry you have been taught at GCSE. The ability to solve problems is also essential. These skills will be developed further throughout the A Level course.

Subject combination advice

Mathematics is a good subject to study alongside any other A Level. If you are considering studying Mathematics or a  Mathematics-related degree at university, it is essential and you should also study Further Mathematics A Level. Many students choose Mathematics to support science subjects.

What can the course lead to in terms of higher education and future careers?

Many degree subjects and careers desire A Level Mathematics. The main subjects which would require A Level include Mathematics, statistics, physics, astronomy, engineering, computer science and economics. Also, medicine, architecture, laboratory and social sciences will have a certain amount of mathematical content.

What are the formal entry requirements for this course?

GCSE Mathematics Grade 7 is a minimum. Ideally this would be a ‘high’ Grade 7.

What activities enrich this subject?

The UK Senior Mathematical Challenge and the Team Challenge provide opportunities to extend your thinking skills beyond the confines of the curriculum. You will have the opportunity to become a Mathematics Prefect, assisting the teachers in the department in providing support and enrichment to younger pupils at the school.