Advanced Maths

Do you enjoy solving problems and puzzles? Are you confident with Algebra? Do you prefer subjects that don’t need lots of writing? Are you in set Newton and expected to achieve a good grade 8 or 9 in Maths? Then Advanced Maths might be for you.

This course follows components of an A level course. The aim of the course is to prepare students for the jump to A level. Most students who take this course move on to study double Maths A level in 6th Form. Whilst we study the AS Maths syllabus, changes in A levels means that taking the AS exams themselves now has little value. Students will therefore be entered for OCR Additional Maths, FSMQ and AQA level 2 Further Mathematics. The programme is largely built on two areas:

Core Maths largely builds on GCSE Maths and covers a lot of the GCSE 8 and 9 material but in more detail. It is therefore a good way of consolidating GCSE Maths and potentially achieving a higher GCSE grade. The module is predominantly Algebra and Co-ordinate Geometry (graphs). Additional topics include sequences and series, differentiation and integration.

Mechanics - Mechanics is about the mathematics of the physical world. It is very useful to students studying Physics or those who want to go on to be engineers or architects. You will learn about Elementary Modelling, Vectors, Newton’s laws of Motion, Friction, Momentum and Collisions.

In addition, we will explore other areas of Maths covered as part of a full A-level such as Decision Maths and Statistics. To consider this course you should enjoy Maths – particularly since you will be doing 13 lessons of Maths a fortnight including your GCSE Maths! You will be expected to do some independent working.

The aim of the course is to give you a feel for what ‘real’ maths is about. e= mc² Exam Board: OCR and AQA How the course is assessed Additional Maths: Written Paper (2 hours). 

Further Maths: Two Written Papers (Non Calculator 1½ hours, Calculator 2 hours).

Suitable Candidates

This course is only open to students with a predicted high grade 8 or 9 in GCSE Maths. You will already be in the top set for Maths and be in your ‘comfort zone’.

If you are considering this option you must book an appointment with Mrs Cumming at Parents’ Evening or at an alternative time.

Post 16 Progression Routes

Most students who have completed Advanced Maths choose to move onto a double Maths (Maths and Further Maths) course at 6th Form. Double Maths is a pre-requisite for a number of degrees at top universities. A variety of other options are available, depending on the college.

Student Comments

“The course has inspired me and made me excited about maths”

“Studying Advanced Maths made me more mature and taught me how to study….and it’s nice working in a small group”

“I wasn’t sure whether I wanted to do Maths at A-level. Now I can’t imagine life without Maths!”