AS Level Mathematics

Mathematics (AS and A Level)

MATHEMATICS

AS and A Level (Edexcel)

Campus: Cheadle and Marple
(02.12.08)

Course overview

Maths is about solving problems. Pure Maths provides methods involving algebra, trigonometry, coordinate geometry and calculus which can be used to solve problems in other branches of Maths. Applied Maths is divided into Mechanics, Statistics and Decision Maths. Mechanics is about statics, stationary bodies and kinematics, the motion of objects. Statistics is about data analysis and interpretation and Decision Maths is about solving problems often in a business context.

AS Level (year one)

You will study three units in year one. This will include two pure units, C1 and C2, and one applied unit which can be Mechanics M1, Statistics S1 or Decision D1.

A Level (year two)

You will also study three units in year two. This will include two more pure units, C3 and C4, and one applied unit which can be Mechanics M2, Statistics S2 or Decision Maths D1 if not studied in year 1.

How you will learn

Lessons are usually teacher led and could involve investigations, discussion, group work and working on examples. Scientific calculators are used extensively throughout the course but the first year 1 unit, C1, is a non-calculator exam.

How you will be assessed

You will sit the first pure unit, C1, exam in January and the second pure unit, C2, and yourchosenapplied unit in June. All exams are 90 minutes and your final AS grade is based on the total mark for the three papers.

In year 2 you will sit C3 in January, and C4 and your second applied unit the following June. Your A level grade is based on the total mark for all six papers. In addition to the external exams your progress will be monitored by internal tests throughout the year.

Special entry requirements

You need to have studied GCSE Maths at the higher tier and achieved at least a grade B.

What the students say

Maths is very interesting and I have been able to link it in with my other subjects.Daniel Slobom

Maths is a challenging and versatile subject that has tested both my mathematical abilities and logic. It is a well set out and structured course.Hannah Burbidge

Pure maths is challenging, but whats life without a challenge!Phillip Southwick

Maths is a challenging but rewarding course with flexible course options.Andrew Booth

Maths is very challenging and interesting. All that is needed for a great subject with great rewards.

Ben Plant

Maths is my hardest subject but easily the most rewarding.Tom Avison

Other useful information

If you are also taking Physics at AS Level you are recommended to take the Mechanics units, M1 and M2 for your applied options.

Students with a grade B at GCSE will be expected to do an extra course called Foundation of Advanced Maths which is designed to give you a good grounding of the essential skills required for AS Level and is a qualification in its own right.