Course Outline and Assessment

The Core Maths qualification is the AQA Level 3 Certificate in Mathematical Studies (option 2B) and is worth half an A-level, which means it can be studied in 1 or 2 years. Core Maths is assessed purely by examination with two 90-minute calculator papers taken in May of year 12 or year 13.

What is Core Maths?

Core Maths is a qualification for people who want to actually learn the mathematical techniques and processes that are really used in everyday life and work like:

• Understanding and working out taxes, pensions, student finance and inflation

• Understanding and using real interest rates such as APR (Annual Percentage Rate) and AER (Annual Equivalent Rate)

• Using cost-benefit analysis to make informed choices on important decisions

• Using critical path analysis to time-manage important projects and events

• Making reasonably accurate estimations and projections

• Critically analysing data and statistics from real-life news, facts and issues.

What is the difference between Core Maths and A-level Maths?

Core Maths is about the practical use of maths in everyday work, life and business whereas A-level Maths is about expoloring the language and beauty of advanced maths for the love of it. Core Maths is entirely contextual and practical whereas A-level Maths is entirely algebraic or symbolic.

Assessment method: 100% Exam. Two 90-minute calculator papers

Where could this take you?

Core Maths is an excellent supporting qualification to take alongside other A-level and BTEC subjects such as Economics, Government & Politics, Business, Computer Science or Computing, Product Design or Sports & Exercise Science. Many universities also offer reduced entry requirements for non-mathematical subjects if you achieve at least a B in Core Maths. Also you can secure some of the UCAS points you need for university if you study Core Maths in one year and Core Maths also prepares you well for self-employed or freelance work.

What can I do now?

We have put together a GOOGLE CLASSROOM with content in two sections:

1. 'Are you ready for core maths?' which will have a series of diagnostic google quizzes and revision materials for the prerequisite topics: percentages (using decimal multipliers), probability and statistics

2. 'Core maths teasers' which will have enrichment-style resources

Please email seth.nelson@petcheyacademy.org.uk if you have any questions.

Google Classroom code: fykfqkf