Mathematics

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Maths: A and AS Level
Further Maths: A and AS Level
Maths: Foundation or Higher Level GCSE

Maths: A and AS Level

Mathematics is one of the great creations of human intelligence. It is the language of science, technology and engineering. It is essential for architecture and design as well as economics and medicine; even art relies on mathematics to some extent. If you enjoy mathematics and have a creative streak you should certainly consider studying the subject at a higher level.

Course details For AS Maths you will take two units of Core Maths and a unit on Statistics. For A2 Maths you will take a further two units of Core Maths and either a unit of Mechanics or a further unit of Statistics.

How is it assessed? AS is assessed by three 1.5 hour examinations, one for each module. A2 is assessed by a further three 1.5 hour examinations.

Course duration One year at AS level. One year at A2 level.

What do I need to study this subject? You should have GCSE Maths (higher tier) grade B or above for AS level.

Where can this lead me? Degree subjects may include maths, economics, business, accountancy, computing, engineering and physics. There are many careers where maths is useful, such as accountancy, insurance, engineering and computer programming.

What are the enrichment opportunities? If you get a high grade in AS Maths at the end of the first year then you can take AS Further Mathematics, in addition to taking A level Maths, in the second year. This means that you will end up with an A level in Mathematics and an AS level in Further Mathematics.

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Further Maths: A and AS Level

This subject builds up a substantial knowledge of pure and applied mathematics. An enthusiasm for mathematics is essential for this demanding course. We would recommend that you take this option if you are very keen on following mathematics-related subjects at university.

Course details For AS Further Maths you will take the following units: Mechanics 1, Decision Maths 1 and Further Pure Maths 1. For A level Further Maths you must first complete AS Further Maths. You will then take three more units: Mechanics 2, Further Pure Maths 2 and Further Pure Maths 3.

How is it assessed? AS Further Maths is assessed by three 1.5 hour examinations: one for each module. A2 Further Maths is assessed by a further three 1.5 hour examinations.

Course duration One year at AS level. One year at A2 level.

What do I need to study this subject? GCSE grade A or A* for AS Further Maths. A high grade at AS Maths and AS Further Maths to study A level Further Maths.

Where can this lead me? If you are considering applying for a maths-related course at a competitive university you are strongly advised to do Further Maths at least to AS level.

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Maths: Foundation or Higher Level GCSE

This course is available to students who have achieved a grade D at GCSE but require a higher grade for entry to higher education or employment.

Course details The topics covered are: Number, Shape and Space, Statistics and Algebra.

How is it assessed? Assessment is by two written examinations worth 100% of the final mark. There is no coursework.

Course duration One year full-time.

What do I need to study this subject? You should have GCSE grade D in Maths or Key Skills Application of Number level 2.

Where can this lead me? GCSE Maths grade C is often a requirement for employment or access to higher education.

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students in a maths lesson students concentrating in maths lesson student listening to the teacher students listening to the teacher in a maths lesson student presenting her solutions to the class