Full Time AS/A2 Mathematics

Mathematics AS/A2

Entry Requirements
Preferably a B grade, or higher, in Mathematics GCSE is required to be successful at A Level.

Course content
The first part of the course will be the Foundations of Advanced Mathematics. As the title suggests, this is a bridging course between GCSE and AS Level. You will have come across much of the content before, but it is an opportunity to revise and improve upon your previous studies in preparation for the AS Level course. A good understanding of GCSE Mathematics, especially algebra and trigonometry, is essential for success at AS Level.
AS: Year 1
The AS Level consists of 3 modules: Core Mathematics 1 (C1); Core Mathematics 2 (C2); and Statistics 1 (S1). The three modules are combined to gain the AS in Mathematics.
The topics covered are:
C1: Algebra & functions, Co-ordinate geometry, Sequences & series, Differentiation and Integration.
C2: Algebra & functions, Co-ordinate geometry, Sequences & series, Trigonometry, Exponentials and logarithms, Differentiation and Integration.
S1: Statistical models, Data representation & summary, Probability, Correlation and Regression, Discrete random variables and Normal distribution.
A2: Year 2
After successful completion of the AS course, the full A2 Level consists of a further 3 modules: Core Maths 3 (C3), Core Maths 4 (C4) and Mechanics 1 (M1).
The topics covered are:
C3: Algebra & functions, Trigonometry, Exponentials & logarithms, Differentiation and Numerical methods.
C4: Algebra & functions, Co-ordinate geometry, Sequences & series, Differentiation, Integration and Vectors.
M1: Mechanical models, Vectors, Kinematics, Particle dynamics, Particle statics and Moments.

How Will I Be Assessed?
The Foundations of Advanced Mathematics examination is a 40 question multiple-choice paper taken in January. Each of the six main modules C1, C2, S1, C3, C4 and M1 is assessed by a 90 minute examination with questions of varying length and difficulty. The C1 examination is a non-calculator paper.
C1, C3 and M1 examinations are taken in January.

What Could I Do Next?
A Mathematics qualification of at least AS Level is a requirement for many careers and a number of Higher Education
courses. Degree courses in Mathematics, Sciences and Computing usually require A Level Mathematics. A Level Mathematics is useful in a huge range of careers.

Are There Any Special Expenses?
All students are expected to provide a scientific calculator, although a graphical calculator is advantageous. Access to a
computer outside of college is desirable although excellent computing facilities are available in college.