Introduction 

This course builds on the skills, knowledge and understanding that were essential for GCSE Mathematics Higher tier and GCSE Mathematics-Numeracy Higher tier. All the courses depend on a good standard of handling Algebra which was seen in the Higher Tier. The specification encourages learners to develop their reasoning skills, identify incorrect reasoning, generalise and construct mathematical tests. They will have to solve more difficult unstructured problems linking different mathematical areas. The learners are expected to take more responsibility for their own learning and to evaluate their own mathematical development.


For learners who choose to study Further Mathematics, you will complete the full A Level course in one year with 18 lessons per fortnight.

Course Content

Advanced Subsidiary (AS)

Year 12


In year 12, the students will study two units for the AS Mathematics qualification

AS Unit 1 (Pure Mathematics A)

AS Unit 2 (Applied Mathematics A).

Pure Mathematics A

Understand and use the structure of a mathematical proof, algebra and functions, coordinate geometry in (x,y) plane, sequences and series (including the Binomial Theorem), trigonometry, exponential functions and logarithms, differentiation, integration, vectors.

Examination 2 hours 30 minutes (120 marks)

25% of the full U2 qualification (62.5% of the AS qualification)

Applied Mathematics A

Statistics - Statistical sampling, presentation and data interpretation including probability distributions, statistical distributions, statistical hypothesis testing.

Mechanics - Quantities and units in Mechanics, kinematics including deriving and using the formulas for constant acceleration of motion in a straight line, using calculus in kinematics, forces and Newton's laws, vectors.

Examination 1 hour 45 minutes (75 marks)

15% of the full U2 qualification (37.5% of the AS qualification)


Advanced Level (A2)

Year 13


In order to gain the full A Level Mathematics qualification, students in Year 13 will have to study 2 additional units to those specified in year 12

U2 Unit 3 (Pure Mathematics B)

U2 Unit 4 (Applied Mathematics B).

Pure Mathematics B

Proof by contradiction, algebra and further functions (including simplifying proportional expressions, factoring, cancellation, algebraic division, sketching curves defined by modulus linear function, composite functions and

inverse), further coordinate geometry, further sequences and series, further trigonometry, further differentiation and integration, numerical methods.

2 hours 30 minutes exam (120 marks)

35% of the full U2 qualification

Applied Mathematics B

Statistics - Conditional probability, branch diagrams, Venn diagrams, two-way tables, modelling with probability (including critiquing assumptions made and the impact of assumptions more realistic), further statistical distributions, further statistical hypothesis testing.

Differential Equations and Mechanics – use trigonometric functions to solve problems in context, differentiation and integration, form differential equations in context, evaluate analytical solutions of differential equations and find specific solutions, interpret the solution of a differential equation in the context of problem solving, further quantities and units, moments, kinematics, vectors.

Examination 1 hour 45 minutes (80 marks)

25% of the full U2 qualification


Career Prospects

It’s an enjoyable subject and you gain a great feeling of satisfaction when solving a problem correctly. Experienced teachers with a track record of excellent results. An academic subject that develops and refines the academic skills of analysis, problem solving and interpretation. Universities welcome a qualification in Mathematics and there is a huge demand for graduates. It opens doors to a vast variety of careers such as Science, Engineering, Accountancy, Business, Economics, Computing, to name but a few.

Entry Requirments

Although each student will be considered on an individual basis for entry onto the course, it would be beneficial for the candidate to have achieved a grade B or better at GCSE level, by sitting the Higher Tier papers.

Examination Board

School Contact

Mrs Lynwen Jones