This new level 3 qualification was introduced for first teaching in September 2014. It is distinct from A Level mathematics and it should fit alongside a student’s main 16-18 programme. It counts as half the size of an A level.
The ‘Core Maths’ qualification is designed to better prepare students for the mathematical demands of study, employment and life. It will develop students’ ability to think mathematically, logically and analytically and will build skills in applying maths to new problems and issues. The Core Maths initiative is a major part of the government’s plan to increase participation and raise standards in mathematics. The course has been developed with employers, universities and professional bodies as valuable preparation for university study and employment. Core Maths will maintain and develop students’ real-life mathematical skills. The study is not purely theoretical or abstract; it can be applied on a day-to-day basis in work, study or life and includes a financial mathematics element. Studying Core Maths will also support other A-Level subjects – in particular with science, geography, business studies, psychology and economics.
Paper 1 – Compulsory Content
· Analysis of data
· Maths for personal finance
· Estimation
· Critical analysis of given data and models (including spreadsheets and tabular data)
Paper 2 – Optional Content
· The normal distribution
· Probabilities and estimation
· Correlation and regression
OR
· Critical path analysis
· Expectation and cost benefit analysis
OR
· Graphical methods
· Rates of change
· Exponential functions
Course Entry Requirements
5 or above in GCSE Mathematics
Course Specification
AQA 1350
Homework
At A Level, students are expected to complete a minimum of 3 hours of study a week on top of their allocated lesson time.