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Mathematics & Further Maths

Introduction

Maths is a universal part of human culture.  It is the tool and language of commerce, engineering and other sciences – physics, computing, biology etc.  It helps us recognise patterns and to understand the world around us.  As society becomes more technically dependent, there will be an increasing requirement for people with a high level of mathematical training.  Analytical and quantitative skills are sought by a wide range of employers.  An A Level in mathematics provides you with a broad range of skills in problem solving, logical reasoning and flexible thinking.

A Level Mathematics student will learn two Pure Mathematics units (Year 1 and Year 2) as well as two applied units combining Statistics and Mechanics in each unit (Year 1 and Year2).  The two Pure Mathematics papers will test any materials covered in either Year 1 or Year 2 with same applying for the Statistics and Mechanics papers.

The aim of this specification is not only to make our mathematicians fluent in the use of a wide range of mathematical skills but also to be able to apply these skills in a wide variety of ways through rigorous problem solving tasks.

Students studying A Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics complete the following exams all with the EDEXCEL examination board at the end of Year 13:

A Level Mathematics Exams (Year 13)

  • Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1 (Further Algebra, Geometry, Vectors, Trigonometry, Proof, Sequences and Calculus).
  • Paper 2: Pure Mathematics 2 (Further Algebra, Geometry, Vectors, Trigonometry, Proof, Sequences and Calculus).
  • Paper 3: Statistics and Mechanics (Data Analysis, Distributions, Probability, Hypothesis testing, Kinematics, Forces and Newton’s Laws and Moments)

Each paper is 2 hours long and worth 100 marks. They individually contribute to 33.33% of the A level.

A Level Further Mathematics Exams (Year 13)

Paper 1: Core Pure Mathematics 1 (Proof, Complex number, Matrices, Further algebra and functions, Further calculus, Further vectors, Polar coordinates, Hyperbolic functions, Differential equations).

Paper 2: Core Pure Mathematics 2 (Proof, Complex number, Matrices, Further algebra and functions, Further calculus, Further vectors, Polar coordinates, Hyperbolic functions, Differential equations).

Paper 3: Decision Mathematics 1

Paper 4: Further Mechanics 1

Each paper is 1 hour 30 minute long and worth 75 marks. They individually contribute to 25% of the A level in Further Maths.

Students are awarded a single Grade from the aggregate of the outcomes from the 3 papers for mathematics (4 papers for Further Mathematics).  There is no coursework for either A Level Mathematics or Further Mathematics.  Students take all exams in May/June of Year 13.

Mathematics Specification:

https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/A%20Level/Mathematics/2017/specification-and-sample-assesment/a-level-l3-mathematics-specification.pdf

Further Mathematics Specification:

https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/A%20Level/Mathematics/2017/specification-and-sample-assesment/a-level-l3-further-mathematics-specification.pdf

Why you should consider this course?

Having successfully completed your GCSE course in mathematics at grade 7 or above, you are now in a position to tackle Mathematics at a more advanced level. This is a highly regarded and enjoyable A-Level.  Keen GCSE students will find A-Level Maths an even more stimulating and rewarding course.

We can guarantee that every student will receive first class tuition using a variety of teaching strategies. This coupled with our excellent support program makes The Warren School an excellent place to study Mathematics.

Who is suitable to study this course and what are the entry requirements?

Students must attain at least a minimum Grade 7 in Mathematics on a higher paper or above. We would prefer a grade 8 or 9.  For entry into Further Maths we require a grade 9.

What independent study will I have to do?

Most independent study is based on set homework tasks, and revision for class tests and formal exams. We would also expect students to develop a wider appreciation of the role Mathematics plays in the wider world.  This can include reading around the subject and taking part in summer schools programmes offered by many universities.

As a guide, for every class based lesson, we would expect double the time being committed to independent work.

What other courses complement Mathematics and Further Mathematics?

Mathematics is linked to a number of subjects. Courses in Finance, Business Studies, Computer Science, Engineering, Physics and Economics will be influenced by Mathematical and Statistical techniques so are the most relevant.

A Level Results 2023

Congratulations to our Year 13 students on achieving

87.4% Grades A*-C in Mathematics 

80% Grades A*-C in Further Maths

 

A Level Results 2022

Congratulations to our Year 13 students on achieving

83% A*-C in Mathematics and

100% A*-C in Further Mathematics

Future Career

A-Level Maths is also widely regarded as one of the most prestigious A-Level to attain. Universities will look very favourably on students with A-Level Maths and Further Maths. The Russell group will certainly expect A-Level Mathematics for many courses.
Direct career paths from Mathematics include accountancy, engineering, statistician, economist, actuarial work, investment/financial analyst, teaching, lecturing, scientific research to name but a few.