What will I study?

 

First Year (AS)

The course follows the Edexcel Syllabus (8450) and is broken into 3 modules – Core Mathematics 1 and 2 together with Decision Mathematics. The Core module builds upon the Mathematics done at GCSE Higher level, including algebra, sequences and trigonometry but also develops an understanding of some higher level topics. Decision Mathematics explores a number of real world problems which can be solved with algorithms and graph theory.

 

Second Year (A Level)

In this year you will again study three modules: two further modules of Core Mathematics and one of either Mechanics or Statistics.

 

How will I be assessed?

 

Each AS module is assessed by one written paper taken in June of Year 12 and likewise each of the three A Level modules are assessed by one written paper at the end of Year 13 and the scores collected together.

 

Additional Features

 

The course enables you to use your Mathematical skills to solve problems using logarithms, trigonometry, calculus, co-ordinate geometry, vectors and exponential growth and decay. You will be able to apply these skills to modelling the mechanics of movement, interpreting data and statistics and optimisation. It shows you how a computer finds the shortest route between two points for you to drive, or how you can complete a circuit of roads in the shortest possible distance. Its applications are widely recognised in Higher Education as improving the ability of those who take it to synthesise, organise and present ideas in both written and verbal forms.

 

Entry Requirements

 

Route 1 – Grade B in Mathematics

Route 2 – Grade B in Mathematics

Route 3 – Not available

Route 4 – Not available

 

It is highly recommended that pupils achieve an average points score of above a Grade B for all their GCSEs in order to be successful at AS/A Level Mathematics.

 

Career Opportunities

 

Mathematics is one of the most marketable A Levels in terms of acceptability, in particular courses/careers in Mathematics, Engineering and most areas of Physics (Further Mathematics may be required for some of these courses). Also Computing, Accountancy, Economics, Business, Banking, Air Traffic Control, Retail Management, Architecture, Surveying, Cartography, Psychology and Teaching, to name but a few.

 

Mathematics A Level is very well regarded by both employers and Higher Education institutions. Recent research has shown that studying Mathematics at A Level can increase your lifetime earnings by 10%, on average.