A Level Mathematics
Introduction
Studying Mathematics at A Level is an immensely rewarding experience. As well as studying a fascinating, stimulating academic subject, students will be able to develop logical skills and enhance their problem solving capacity and analytical skills. The Mathematics department consistently achieves some of the school’s best A Level results and we use our experience and expertise to support students through every step of their studies.
Entry requirements
GCSE Maths at grade 7 or above. Students with a grade 6 will be assessed for their suitability to take this course on an Individual basis.
Year 12
In Year 12 students will study a variety of Pure and Applied subjects. In Pure Mathematics this will include algebraic manipulation and equation solving, algebraic graphs, binomial expansions, differentiation, integration, trigonometry, vectors, exponentials and logarithms. The Applied topics will be drawn from both Statistics and Mechanics. Statistics topics will include sampling, interpreting statistical diagrams, probability distributions and hypothesis testing. The Mechanics topics will include kinematics, variable acceleration and the use of Newton’s laws.
Core Mathematics
The Core Mathematics section of the course continues from the algebra and trigonometry within the Higher GCSE course. Topics covered will include:
Proof
Algebra and Functions
Coordinate Geometry
Sequences and Series
Trigonometry
Exponential and Logarithms
Differentiation
Integration
Numerical Methods
Vectors
Mechanics
This applied Mathematics unit will develop many of the concepts already encountered in GCSE Physics. Topics covered will include:
Quantities and Units used in Mechanics
Kinematics
Forces and Newton’s laws
Moments
Statistics
This applied Mathematics unit will develop many of the concepts already encountered in the data handling units of GCSE course. Topics covered will include:
Statistical Sampling
Data Presentation and Interpretation
Probability
Statistical Distributions
Statistical Hypothesis Testing
In accordance with AQA guidance, students will spend time working with a large data set, knowledge of which will be examined as part of the final examinations.
Year 13
In Year 13 students will consolidate and develop the skills they have learnt in Year 12. In Pure Mathematics this will include sequences and series, circular measure functions and transformations, numerical methods, parametric equations, partial fractions and further calculus. The Applied topics will again be drawn from both Statistics and Mechanics. Statistics topics will include conditional probability, Venn diagrams and the Normal distribution. The Mechanics topics will include kinematic graphs, equilibrium, statics, friction and moments.
Calculators
It is a requirement of the reformed A level course that students are expected to use the new style calculators, such as the Casio Class-Wiz FX-991EX (pictured). Students will need to be in possession of this for the start of Year 12. They are available from the usual stockists.
Examination board
AQA Mathematics (7357)
For full details of the course specification please follow the link below.
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/mathematics/as-and-a-level/mathematics-7357
Assessment
Three written papers; each of two hours, all taken in the summer term of year 13
Paper 1 – Pure Maths
Paper 2 – Pure and Mechanics
Paper 3 – Pure and Statistics
Future Opportunities
Mathematics A Level is highly respected by universities and employers, and is required for a wide range of courses and careers such as accountancy, market research, games design, logistics, telecommunications and finance. University courses in Physics, Engineering and Computer Science often require an A Level in Mathematics. Finally, research has shown that people with A Level Mathematics earn 10% more on average than those who did not study the subject.
If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to email Mrs Bauwens, the head of Key Stage 5 Mathematics, on bauwensa@crispins.co.uk
