A Level Mathematics
Overview:
Mathematics is a highly academic and challenging A Level. It encourages students to develop their algebra and problem solving skills, covering the main areas of both Pure and Applied Mathematics. The A Level qualification will have linear assessment and all examinations will be taken at the end of the course. Pure Mathematics include topics such as co-ordinate geometry, calculus, vectors, trigonometry, logarithms and series. The Statistics part of the Applied course covers areas such as averages and spread, discrete random variables, correlation and regression, normal distribution and hypothesis testing. In Mechanics, students study kinematics, dynamics and moments.
Students need to demonstrate a high standard of algebra and problem solving, interpreting and evaluating data and constructing rigorous proofs.
The aim of the course is to develop problem solving and analytical skills with a qualification that is well regarded, facilitating entry to a wide range of careers and further education courses. To further develop logical reasoning skills and the ability to construct mathematical proofs. To use technology effectively to analyse data and to be aware of its limitations. Refine and improve the relationship between mathematical models and the real-life situations they represent.
“It is probably the most enjoyable of all my A Level choices. Teaching was great and lessons went at a good pace.”
Course Structure and Content:
A Level Mathematics studies elements from pure mathematics, statistics and mechanics. Pure Mathematics deepens knowledge of algebraic techniques, geometry, trigonometry and calculus. These concepts and techniques are fundamental to further study in a variety of subjects, especially STEM careers. Understanding statistics allows mathematicians to make predictions about future events. Many subjects make use of statistical information and techniques to analyse data from studies such as psychological or medical trials. An understanding of probability and risk is important in careers like insurance, medicine, engineering and the sciences. Mechanics is a branch of mathematics involving modelling and analysing the physical world around us, including the study of forces and motion. Mechanics is especially useful to students studying physics and engineering.
- Pure Content – Proof, algebra and functions, coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane, sequences and series, trigonometry, exponentials and logarithms, differentiation, integration, numerical methods, vectors.
- Mechanics Content – Quantities and units in mechanics, kinematics, forces and Newton’s laws, moments.
- Statistics Content – Statistical sampling, data presentation and interpretation, probability, statistical distributions, statistical hypothesis testing.
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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 three written examination papers, each paper having equal weighting.
- Paper 1 - Pure Mathematics (2 hours)
- Paper 2 - Pure Mathematics (2 hours)
- Paper 3 - Mechanics and Statistics (2 hours)
Examination Board:
The course followed is the Pearson Edexcel A Level Mathematics (2017)
A Level Mathematics (external link)
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.