Further Mathematics

Aims

To extend the range of mathematical skills and techniques and use them in more difficult, unstructured problems. To develop an understanding of coherence and progression in Mathematics and of how different areas of Mathematics are connected. Entry requirement Ideally, those wishing to study Further Mathematics A Level should have attained at least a grade 8 at GCSE. Students should also have a commitment to the subject and thirst for Mathematics. Course structure

Mathematics is a linear course. Students will take the three Mathematics A Level units, in addition to four Further Mathematics units. Two of the units are compulsory and are based on the fixed pure content, which will focus on number and algebra. There is then some flexibility in the other two units with options of taking either: Further Mechanics, Further Statistics, Further Pure or Further Decision units. The decision between which of these two modules will be taken will take place in the Summer Term.

Lower Sixth

Students will learn in the Mathematics option block the Core 1 and Applied knowledge. In the Further Mathematics A Level they will look to explore the following content: Further Pure Year One Inequalities, differential equations, McLaurin’s and Taylor series 25% of the A Level 1 hour 30 minutes written examination at the end of Upper Sixth Decision One The unit covers graph theory, networks, the analysis of pathways and linear programming 25% of the A Level 1 hour 30 minutes written examination at the end of Upper Sixth

Upper Sixth

Further Pure Year Two Vectors, hyperbolic functions, coordinate systems 25% of the A Level 1 hour 30 minutes written examination at the end of the Upper Sixth The fourth unit will be taken from Further Mechanics, Further Statistics, Further Pure or Further Decision This will depend on the dynamics of the group Each is 25% of the A Level 1 hour 30 minutes written examination at the end of Upper Sixth

If you are interested in studying Further Mathematics, please ask Mr Wellings for the latest update on the course content.

Career opportunities Students who study Mathematics and Further Mathematics at A Level will find the topics covered useful in fields such as engineering, the sciences, psychology, geography and economics. However, they can always study the subject for its own sake, which in turn, can lead to careers in accountancy, business and education.