A-Level Maths

MATHEMATICS, STANDARD A-LEVEL

Exam Board: Edexcel/ AQA

For Mathematics we follow the Edexcel exam board specification.

What are the benefits of the course?

This course is suitable for students who enjoyed Mathematics at GCSE Level and having gained strong mathematical skills wish to study the subject in greater depth. The course mainly concerns itself with developing the more abstract and algebraic ideas introduced at GCSE, although it does include some applications of mathematics.

In simple terms, we put an emphasis on algebra, graphs, number patterns and trigonometry. You will be actively involved in developing mathematical ideas. The problems used arise from, and relate to, everyday life. You will develop skills using modern technology such as computers and graphical calculators.

Students who achieve and 8 or 9 in GCSE Mathematics may wish to study Further Mathematics alongside standard Mathematics.

There is also the opportunity for students who achieve a grade 4 or above in GCSE Mathematics but do not wish to continue studying algebra to study Core Mathematics. This in an alternative Level 3 AS qualification that focuses on consolidating students’ mathematical understanding from GCSE and developing skills in the application of mathematics to authentic problems.

What will I study?

A-Level Mathematics

In Year 12 you will study Pure and Applied Maths.

In Pure maths you will cover: Proof, Algebra and Functions, Coordinate Geometry in the Cartesian plane, Sequences and Series, Trigonometry, Exponentials and Logarithms, Differentiation, Integration and Vectors.

In Applied maths you will cover both Statistics and Mechanics. The Statistics element consists of: Statistical Sampling, Data presentation and interpretation, Probability, Statistical distributions and Statistical hypothesis testing. The Mechanics element consists of: Quantities and units in mechanics, Kinematics and Forces and Newton’s laws.

In Year 13 you will study more Pure and Applied Maths.

In Pure maths you will cover the same topics listed in Year 12 but in more depth in addition to Numerical Methods.

In Applied maths you will cover the same topics as above but in more depth, further to this you will study Moments which is additional to the Mechanics element.

How will I be assessed?

Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1 – Year 12 content only 1hour – 100 Marks

Paper 2: Pure Mathematics 2 - Year 12 and 13 content 2 hours – 100 Marks

Paper 3: Statistics & Mechanics - Section A: Statistics (50 marks) 2 hours – 100 Marks

Section B: Mechanics (50 marks)

What does it lead to?

An A-Level in Mathematics enables access to a wide range of career and Higher Education opportunities. Possible further career paths include those in science and technology, computing, engineering, medicine, business and management, finance and accountancy, architecture, law and teaching.

Entry Requirements:

Grade 7, 8 or 9 in GCSE Mathematics.

We will offer a place to students who achieve a grade 6 at GCSE Mathematics however they will be required to attend and successfully complete the bridging course.

Staff Contact:

Mrs J Whybra

jwhybra@brakenhale.co.uk