Further Mathematics

O V E R V I E W

Further Mathematics is a popular option for those with a strong aptitude for mathematics, who must have achieved at least grade 8 at GCSE. This option results in a highly valued second Mathematics A level. It is almost essential for anyone wishing to study the subject at university and is very useful for those going into a mathematically orientated subject such as Engineering or Physics.

The course is demanding, yet very rewarding, laying emphasis not only on the application of the subject but on studying mathematics for its own sake. If

you are good at mathematics and are already aiming toward a maths related university course you should strongly consider taking the Further Maths

option. You should discuss this with your mathematics teacher.

For those intending to apply for entry to the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, the extra work covered in Year 12 on the Further Mathematics course can be of considerable assistance and improves the chances of obtaining a place.

Head of Department

Mr B R Disley

Examination Board

Pearson/Edexcel

Specification

9MA0

How is the course assessed?

Students are taught in dedicated Further Mathematics sets following the A level Mathematics course, outlined above, at an increased pace. They will also study additional content and take four extra exams in order to earn A level Further Mathematics. • There will be internal exams in the summer of Year 12. • There will be seven external exams taken at the end of Year 13. (three x two hours for A level Maths and four x one and a half hours for Further Maths.)

Further Pure Mathematics: Compulsory papers Further Pure Maths 1 and 2 form the core of the qualification. Pure Maths topics from A level Mathematics are extended to a higher level, whilst new topics studied include complex numbers, matrices, polar coordinates and hyperbolic functions.

Option papers: Two option papers are taken. We aim to offer a choice of options to students in order to support their next steps into higher education. The options will extend students’ study of Further Pure Maths (including group and number theory), Statistics (including regression, chi-squared tests and confidence intervals), or Mechanics (including collisions, elasticity and circular motion), or broaden their study into the new area of Decision Maths (including algorithms, CPA, linear programming, dynamic programming and game theory). Whilst all candidates will start out aiming for two A levels, other options may become possible such as taking A level Maths and AS Further Mathematics. Teaching is normally shared by two teachers.

A good grade 8 in GCSE Mathematics though ideally a grade 9.

Entry requirements