The AS Level Further Mathematics content falls under one of three broad areas:
Core Pure
On this side of the course some pure topics from A Level mathematics are studied in greater depth, while some new topics are introduced. Algebraic work with series is extended and the powerful technique of proof by induction is used in various contexts. Complex numbers are introduced and these lead to solutions of problems in algebra and geometry. Matrices are used to solve systems of equations and to explore transformations. Vector methods are applied to problems involving lines and planes.
Statistics
On the Statistics side of the course, situations are modelled by discrete random variables; this allows inference about a population in the form of hypothesis testing and point and interval estimates of population parameters. The suitability of models is tested and bivariate data are investigated.
Numerical Methods
Much of AS/A Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics is restricted to problems which are amenable to exact solution. For many real world problems no exact methods exist and numerical methods are required to solve them. On this side of the course you will learn to apply numerical approaches to four topics from mathematics: solution of equations, differentiation, integration and approximating functions. You will learn how to use a spreadsheet to implement the methods and learn to analyse the errors associated with numerical methods.
The A Level Further Mathematics content both extends those techniques covered in year 12 and introduces new methods and concepts:
Core Pure
Complex numbers are revisited with a particular focus on the solution of problems in trigonometry. Calculus techniques are extended, including the use of hyperbolic functions and polar coordinates, and culminate in the solution of differential equations.
Statistics
In year 13, continuous random variables are considered. Simulation of random variables is also introduced - a powerful way of tackling challenging problems.
Students taking A Level Further Mathematics sit three papers at the end of year 13 in addition to their A Level Mathematics exams. These are: Core Pure (2 hours and 40 minutes), Statistics Major (2 hours and 15 minutes) and Numerical Methods (1 hour and 15 minutes).
603/1325/0
Mr A Sargerson
OCR (MEI)
Students are expected to have 5 Grade 5 GCSEs including:
Grade 7 or above in Mathematics
This course must be taken alongside A Level Mathematics.
It is for strong mathematicians who get a kick out of persevering with seemingly impossible problems until they find a route through and who want to study the subject in a more sophisticated way. You will need to have found the Higher GCSE content straightforward and therefore already have strong technical skills.
Please contact your Maths teacher for further guidance.
Students who are thinking of reading Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics or Engineering ought to take Further Mathematics, and it is strongly recommended for those who wish to study Economics at university.