IGCSE Higher & Foundation

CORE SUBJECT : MATHEMATICS A (HIGHER) 

Edexcel IGCSE 4MA1

AIMS

This syllabus should enable learners to:

• Acquire a foundation of mathematical skills appropriate to further study and continued learning in mathematics;

• Develop a foundation of mathematical skills and apply them to other subjects and to the real world;

• Interpret mathematical results and understand their significance;

• Develop strategies, patience and persistence when solving problems;

• Develop a positive attitude towards mathematics which encourages enjoyment, fosters confidence and promotes enquiry and further learning;

• Appreciate the beauty and power of mathematics;

• Appreciate the difference between mathematical proof and pattern spotting;

• Appreciate the interdependence of different branches of mathematics and the links with other disciplines;

• Appreciate the international aspect of mathematics, its cultural and historical significance and its role in the real world;

• Read mathematics and communicate the subject in a variety of ways.

COURSE OUTLINE

The following topics are covered:

Decimals Special numbers, powers and roots Fractions Percentages Ratio and proportion

Indices and standard form Degree of accuracy Set language, notation and Venn diagrams

Algebraic manipulation Expressions, formulae and rearranging formulae Linear equations and inequalities

Sequences Real-life graphs Linear graphs Quadratic equations and graphs

More complex graphs and transformation of graphs Function notation Simultaneous equations

Calculus

Compound measure Geometry of shapes Perimeter, area and volume The Theorem of Pythagoras Trigonometry

Circle properties and theorems Advanced trigonometry Similarity and congruence Vectors

Graphical representation of data Statistical measures Probability

ASSESSMENT

Learners sit two written papers. The assessment outline is shown in the following table:

Component Description Time Weighting

Paper 1HR Calculator; range of question types, 100 marks 120 minutes 50%

Paper 2HR Calculator; range of question types, 100 marks 120 minutes 50%

All papers are externally marked.

CORE SUBJECT : MATHEMATICS A (FOUNDATION)

Edexcel IGCSE 4MA1

AIMS

This syllabus should enable learners to:

• Develop the mathematical knowledge and oral, written and practical skills to bring confidence, satisfaction and enjoyment;

• Read, write and talk about mathematics in a variety of ways;

• Develop numeracy skills, carry out calculations and understand the significance of the results obtained;

• Apply mathematics in everyday situations and develop an understanding of the part which mathematics plays in the world around them;

• Solve problems, present the solutions clearly, check and interpret the results;

• Develop an understanding of mathematical principles;

• Recognise when and how a situation may be represented mathematically, identify and interpret relevant factors and, where necessary, select an appropriate mathematical method to solve the problem;

• Use mathematics as a means of communication with emphasis on the use of clear expression;

• Develop an ability to apply mathematics in other disciplines;

• Develop the abilities to reason logically, to classify, to generalise and to prove;

• Appreciate patterns and relationships in mathematics;

• Produce and appreciate imaginative and creative work arising from mathematical ideas;

• Appreciate the interdependence of different branches of mathematics;

• Acquire a foundation appropriate to further study of mathematics and of other disciplines.

COURSE OUTLINE

The following topics are covered:

Integers, place value and decimals Special numbers and powers Fractions Percentages Ratio and proportion

Set language, notation and Venn diagrams Indices and standard form

Algebraic expressions, formulae and rearranging Linear equations and inequalities

Sequences Real-life graphs Linear and quadratic equations and graphs Simultaneous equations

Measures, bearings and scale drawings Symmetry, shapes, parallel lines and angle facts Interior and exterior angles of polygons

Compound measures Perimeter, area and volume Circles and cylinders

Transformations Pythagoras’ theorem and trigonometry Similarity and congruence

Constructions Graphical representation of data Statistical measures

Probability

ASSESSMENT

Learners sit two written papers. The assessment outline is shown in the following table:

Component Description Time Weighting

Paper 1FR Calculator; range of question types, 100 marks 120 minutes 50%

Paper 2FR Calculator; range of question types, 100 marks 120 minutes 50%

All papers are externally marked.

All learners begin Year 10 following the Mathematics A (Higher) course. After the trial examinations, teachers and the Learning Area Leader will determine whether to recommend the Foundation course as a more appropriate alternative.

All learners in Year 10 should purchase the textbooks below, as well as a scientific calculator. Graphic Display Calculators (GDCs), such as those made by Texas Instruments, Casio, HP, etc. are not allowed.

These formulae sheets appear on the first page of every exam paper. It is a good idea to familiarise yourself with them.