A Level - Mathematics
BackCourse Information
What does the course involve?
A Level Mathematics builds on and extends GCSE knowledge and skills and introduces new ideas, such as calculus and its applications. It emphasises how mathematical ideas are interconnected and how these ideas can be applied to model situations mathematically. There is a strong emphasis on logical reasoning and problem-solving and you will learn to use your mathematical skills and techniques to solve challenging problems.
Most of the course involves using algebra and it covers topics such as trigonometry, co-ordinate geometry, differentiation and integration (calculus), algebraic techniques and functions. All students study statistics and mechanics. Statistics develops the skills required to interpret real data presented in summary or graphical form and helps us to draw conclusions about what the data shows. The statistics element of the course may be particularly helpful to students also studying geography, economics, biology or psychology. Mechanics allows us to describe and make predictions about how physical objects move and interact with each other involving ideas such as velocity, acceleration, force and mass which are central to understanding how the world works. The mechanics element of the course may be particularly helpful to those students studying physics or engineering.
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Entry Requirements
Standard entry requirements, plus:
- Grade 7 at GCSE Mathematics
Can I take additional qualifications?
If you choose to study Mathematics, you will usually take it alongside two other A Levels. Mathematics is an excellent qualification that complements the full range of A Levels, particularly the Sciences.
How will I be assessed?
End of Year One - 2 exam papers, assessed internally, as outlined below:
- Paper 1: Pure Mathematics - 2 hours (100 marks)
- Paper 2: Statistics – 1.25 hour (60 marks)
A Level - 3 exam papers as outlined below:
- Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1 - 2 hours (100 marks)
- Paper 2: Pure Mathematics 2 - 2 hours (100 marks)
- Paper 3: Statistics and Mechanics - 2 hours (100 marks)
What are the costs?
You should have a calculator – the minimum specification is the Casio FX 991-EX Classwiz. You may like to consider a graphical calculator for A-Level maths (particularly if you are looking at Maths, Physics or Engineering in the future), the college has a set of HP 39Gii for use in class. Please talk to a Maths teacher for more advice.
What is the duration?
This is a two year course.
What is the UCAS points tariff for this course?
A Level
| Grade | UCAS Points |
| A* | 56 |
| A | 48 |
| B | 40 |
| C | 32 |
| D | 24 |
| E | 16 |
