Why should you take this course?
People with strong mathematical skills are in demand and if you are enjoying GCSE mathematics, then continuing your studies will earn you a highly-respected qualification valued by universities and employers alike.
The mathematical and problem-solving skills you will develop on the course will also benefit many other subjects you take alongside – in particular, if you are thinking of studying Physics, Computer Science, Engineering or Chemistry at college, then Mathematics should go with them.
Course content
The course is split into pure mathematics (two-thirds), mechanics (one-sixth) and statistics (one-sixth). Pure mathematics extends many concepts from GCSE including algebra, functions, graphs, trigonometry, and vectors. It also introduces the new concepts of differentiation (how ‘steep’ a curved graph is) and integration (how much area is enclosed by a graph’s curve). Statistics extends the concepts studied at GCSE and includes much more emphasis on probability, including probability models and hypothesis testing. Mechanics is the study of how objects move and the forces that affect their motion.
How will I be assessed?
You will sit three exams at the end of your second year.
Are there any special expenses?
All students are required to have a suitable calculator which is more powerful than those used for GCSE maths. Details will be provided at the start of the course.
What could I do next?
Mathematics A Level is a requirement for many careers and higher education courses and is a ‘must have’ A Level for degree-level study in most sciences, computer science, all branches of engineering and, of course, mathematics.
