Mathematics (A-Level

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Le vels

Mathematics

Mathematics is a course worth studying not only as a supporting subject for the physical and social sciences, but in its own right. It is both challenging and interesting. It builds on work you will have met at IGCSE, but also involves new ideas that some of the greatest minds in history have produced. It serves as a very useful support for many other qualifications as well as being a sought-after qualification for the workplace and higher education courses.

COURSE AIMS • To use mathematical skills and knowledge to solve more difficult problems • To reason logically and recognise incorrect reasoning • To construct proofs for important formulae and results • To model real-life situations using Mathematics to show what is happening and what might happen in different circumstances • To analyse data using statistical techniques to obtain an overview • To use calculator technology effectively and appropriately • To develop an understanding of how different areas of

Mathematics can be connected

ADVICE This course is suitable for students who: • Are fascinated by Mathematics • Enjoy how complex Mathematics can be • Have excellent skills in algebraic manipulation, logic and reasoning • Want to use Mathematics to support other qualifications or progress onto further study

237 A-Level ENTRY CRITERIA At least a grade 6 at Higher Tier IGCSE Mathematics, or equivalent.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA There are three areas of Mathematics that may be studied: Pure Mathematics (Units P1, P2, P3 and P4) These units concentrate on abstract mathematical skills. They extend knowledge of such topics as Algebra and Trigonometry as well as introducing some brand new ideas such as Calculus.

Mechanics This shows how Mathematics can describe the motion of objects and how they respond to forces acting upon them, from cars in the street to satellites revolving around a planet. It develops the technique of Mechanical modelling; that is, of turning a complicated physical problem into a simpler one that can be more easily analysed.

Statistics This shows how Mathematics can be used to analyse and summarise numerical data in order to arrive at conclusions. Statistical modelling is developed and probability is used to make quantitative predictions about the future. This qualification comprises of 6 units in total. Three are undertaken in Year 12 and the remaining three completed in Year 13. The examination papers for all units have a duration of 1 hour 30 minutes and allow the use of a calculator. There is no coursework component.

All students must study the four Pure Mathematics units (P1, P2, P3 and P4). The remaining two units may include Statistics only (S1 and S2), or a mixture of Mechanics and Statistics (M1 and S1):

Option A or B is dependent on students offer subject choices, but students opting to take Physics will automatically follow option A. 239 A-Level 239