Mathematics - A Level

The course for Mathematics is linear, with exams taken in the summer of year 13.

All students will study some aspects of pure mathematics, statistics and mechanics. Students will also need to be competent with technology, including the use of spreadsheets, graphical software and the new calculators, as this is a requirement by the exam boards. Technology will permeate the syllabus. Mathematical and statistical problem solving, data analysis and interpretation skills are all developed through the study of A-level Maths and are valuable in a broad range of subject areas.

Mathematics A level includes:

Pure Mathematics

Year 12: Algebra, co-ordinate geometry, polynomials, inequalities, language of mathematics, indices and surds, differentiation, integration, trigonometry, logarithms.

Year 13: Differentiation, integration, natural logarithms and exponentials, sequences, functions, proof, numerical solution of equations, binomial expansions, partial fractions, trigonometry, parametric equations, further techniques for integration and differential equations.

Statistics

Exploring data, data presentation, probability, discrete random variables, combinations, the binomial distribution, the normal distribution, hypothesis testing, correlation and regression.

Mechanics

Modelling, vectors, kinematics, Newton’s laws of motion, forces, friction, moments and projectiles.

Assessment Pure Year 12: Algebra, co-ordinate geometry, polynomials, inequalities, language of mathematics, indices and surds, differentiation, integration, trigonometry, logarithms. Year 13: Differentiation, integration, natural logarithms and exponentials, sequences, functions, proof, numerical solution of equations, binomial expansions, partial fractions, trigonometry, parametric equations, further techniques for integration and differential equations. Statistics: Exploring data, data presentation, probability, discrete random variables, combinations, the binomial distribution, the normal distribution, hypothesis testing, correlation and regression. Mechanics: Modelling, vectors, kinematics, Newton’s laws of motion, forces, friction, moments and projectiles.

Minimum requirements for admission to the Sixth Form:

A grade 5 in Mathematics
A grade 5 in English Language or English Literature
Achieving at least 3 other GCSEs at grade 6 or above. Subject specific requirement:

• Grade 6 in Mathematics

Students will need a particular type of calculator, similar to either Casio FX-991EX ClassWiz or the Casio CG-50.

Some of the most interesting and well-paid careers revolve around Maths. Careers in finance, medicine, engineering, and business are all open to people with a background in Mathematics, as are careers in technology — Maths being at the very core of all new technological developments.

Career Opportunities include: Accountancy, Automotive, Biosciences, Chemicals, Construction, Consultancies. Aerospace and Defence Environment, Exploration Geophysics, Financial Services, Government, Healthcare, Insurance, IT & Computing, Manufacturing, Media, Metals & Minerals, Operational Research, Pharmaceuticals, Recruitment, Academic Research, Education.