Pearson Edexcel A-Level Mathematics – 9MA0
Pearson Edexcel A-Level Further Mathematics – 9FM0
AQA Level 3 Mathematical Studies – 1350
Course Leader: Martin Shepherd – martinshepherd@kba.uk
Department Leader: Anna Keen
WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?
A-Level Mathematics: Grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics.
A-Level Further Mathematics: Grade 8 in GCSE Mathematics. Students must also be taking A-Level Mathematics.
Students should enjoy logical and rational thinking, have confidence in algebraic manipulation and be interested in the precise and rewarding nature of mathematical problem-solving.
WHAT WILL I DO?
A-Level Mathematics extends the knowledge of algebra and geometry developed at GCSE. You will explore new concepts including differentiation, integration and trigonometry, alongside a range of other mathematical topics.
The course also develops your understanding of how mathematics can be applied to real-world situations through statistics and mechanics. You will investigate probability, statistical distributions and hypothesis testing, as well as forces, movement and the principles of mechanics.
For students who enjoy logical and rational thinking, and who appreciate the challenge of solving problems, Mathematics offers an opportunity to develop valuable analytical and problem-solving skills.
COURSE CONTENT AND COMPONENTS
A-Level Mathematics
The course is divided into three broad areas:
Pure Mathematics
- Algebra and functions
- Geometry and vectors
- Trigonometry
- Differentiation and integration
- Sequences and series
- Proof and numerical methods
Statistics
- Probability
- Statistical distributions
- Hypothesis testing
- Data presentation and interpretation
Mechanics
- Kinematics and movement
- Forces and moments
- Newton’s Laws
The mechanics content also provides useful support for students studying Physics.
A-Level Further Mathematics
Further Mathematics builds on the concepts studied in A-Level Mathematics, taking them further and exploring more advanced and challenging ideas.
Topics include:
- Complex numbers
- Matrices
- Mathematical proof
- Further calculus and differential equations
- Further vectors
- Algorithms
- Critical path analysis
- Linear programming
Students study Core Pure Mathematics alongside two additional options. These options allow students to explore areas such as Further Pure Mathematics, Further Mechanics, Further Statistics and Decision Mathematics.
AS Mathematical Studies
The AQA Level 3 Mathematical Studies qualification is designed to support and develop the mathematical understanding needed for other A-Level subjects, including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography and Psychology.
It is intended for students who are not studying A-Level Mathematics and provides useful mathematical skills that can be applied across a range of subjects and everyday situations.
Content includes:
- Analysis of data
- Mathematics for personal finance
- Estimation
- Critical analysis of data and mathematical models
- The normal distribution
- Probability and estimation
- Correlation and risk analysis
ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK
A-Level Mathematics
Students sit three written examinations at the end of Year 13. Each paper is two hours long and contributes one-third of the final A-Level grade.
- Paper 1: Pure Mathematics
- Paper 2: Pure Mathematics
- Paper 3: Statistics and Mechanics
A-Level Further Mathematics
Students sit four written examinations, each lasting 1 hour 30 minutes. Two papers assess Core Pure Mathematics, while the other two assess the selected optional topics. Each paper contributes 25% of the final grade.
AS Mathematical Studies
Students sit two written examinations, each lasting 1 hour 30 minutes. Paper 1 covers the compulsory content, while Paper 2 assesses an additional applied topic area. A scientific or graphical calculator is permitted.
All three courses are assessed through examinations.
PROGRESSION – WHAT CAN I DO AT THE END OF THE COURSE?
A-Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics provide an excellent foundation for a wide range of university courses and careers. They are particularly valuable for students considering Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Economics, Finance, Data Science and other numerate disciplines.
The analytical, logical and problem-solving skills developed through these courses are highly valued by universities and employers across many sectors.
AS Mathematical Studies provides additional mathematical confidence and skills that can support progression in a wide range of further study and careers.