FURTHER MATHEMATICS OVERVIEW
How is the course assessed?
Further Mathematics is a popular option for those with a strong aptitude for mathematics and a genuine love of the subject. 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.
Students sit four exams in Year 13, each lasting 1.5 hours. Further Core Pure 1 (25%), Further Core Pure 2 (25%), option paper 1 (25%) and option paper 2 (25%).
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. Students are taught in dedicated Further Mathematics sets, following the A Level Mathematics course at an increased pace as well as studying the additional material required for the Further Mathematics qualification. Further Maths broadens the horizons of the subject, delving deeper into Pure mathematics as well as allowing students to select two areas of specialisation in Year 13. This allows the course to be tailored for your future studies or career. For those intending to apply for entry to the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, the extra work covered in the Further Mathematics course can be of considerable assistance and improves the chances of obtaining a place.
These exams are in addition to those required for the A level Mathematics qualification (meaning that students will have 7 exams in total). 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: In year 13 students select two option modules, allowing them to tailor the course to their interests and requirements. Each area contains two modules so students can either study module 1 in two separate areas or fully commit to one specialisation and study both modules in one area. The areas are: Further Pure Maths continues students journey deeper into pure mathematics, including group and number theory. Further Statistics develops areas such as regression, chi-squared tests and confidence intervals
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. These options can be discussed with teachers at any time during the course.
Entry requirements Candidates require a strong grade 8 in GCSE Mathematics, though a grade is 9 preferable as the course is highly demanding.
Head of Department Mr B R Disley
Examination Board Pearson/Edexcel
Specification 9FM0
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