A Level Further Mathematics
Overview:
Further Mathematics, although an A Level in its own right, is an extension of the Mathematics qualification and covers a range of more theoretical concepts.
The A Level Further Mathematics qualification will have linear assessment and all examinations will be taken at the end of the course. A Level Mathematics is required in order to take Further Mathematics. Core Pure Mathematics covers topics including complex numbers, matrices, proof by induction, polar co-ordinates and hyperbolic functions. The statistics unit covers various data distributions, hypothesis testing of those distributions and further probability among others. Further Mechanics is also an Applied unit and covers areas such as momentum, impulse, work, energy, power and collisions.
To aim of the course is to develop an understanding of processes, logical reasoning and how to construct mathematical proofs. Extend range of skills and techniques to use in more difficult unstructured problems. Develop an understanding of coherence and progression in Mathematics. Refine the relationship between ‘real world’ problems and mathematical models. To use technology effectively and to be aware of limitations.
Course Structure and Content:
A Level Further Mathematics studies additional elements from Pure Mathematics, Statistics and Mechanics that are not covered by the Mathematics A Level course and is taught as a separate but parallel A Level.
- Core Pure Content – Proof, complex numbers, matrices, further algebra and functions, further calculus, further vectors, polar coordinates, hyperbolic functions, differential equations.
- Mechanics Content – Momentum and impulse, work, energy and power, elastic springs and strings, elastic collisions in 1D and 2D.
- Statistics Content - Statistical and probability distributions, correlation, hypothesis testing, Chisquared tests, estimation, confidence intervals.
Click here to download a course flyer
Assessment:
At the end of the Lower Sixth, students sit an exam on all of the Lower Sixth content. This does not count towards the final grade, but assesses the content at this half-way point before progression to the Upper Sixth. The course is assessed at the end of the Upper Sixth with four written examination papers:
- Paper 1: Core Pure Mathematics 1
- Paper 2: Core Pure Mathematics 2
- Paper 3: Further Mechanics 1 (option C)
- Paper 4: Further Statistics 1 (option B)
Each paper is 1 hour and 30 minutes written examination and represents 25% of the qualification
Examination Board:
The course followed is the Pearson Edexcel AS (8FM0) and A Level (9MA0) courses
Edexcel AS and A Level Further Mathematics
Edexcel AS Further Mathematics
Future Career Opportunities:
Apprenticeships and further education courses in Mathematics, Engineering, Computing, Economics, Accountancy, Medicine, Physical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Environmental Sciences or other STEM courses.