A2 Mathematics

Mathematics
This is a popular, modular course. It builds on work you will have met at GCSE, but also involves new ideas that some of the greatest minds of the last millennium have produced.

While studying mathematics you will be expected to:

• Use mathematical skills and knowledge to solve problems.
• Solve quite complicated problems using mathematical arguments and proof.
• Model real-life situations and solve problems using mathematics that you have learnt on the course.
• Use software and calculator technology when appropriate, and also appreciate the limitations of such technology.

Mathematics can be studied as one or two subjects.

The one subject option (or Single Mathematics option) leads to an AS in year 1 and a full A Level in year 2.
The Double Subject option leads to the full A Level in Mathematics in year 1 and a full A Level in Further Mathematics in year 2.

You may decide that you would like to pick up AS Further Mathematics in year 2 giving you a final qualification of an A Level in Mathematics and an AS in Further Mathematics.

What Will I Learn on the Course?

When studying Pure or Core Mathematics you will be extending your knowledge of such topics as algebra and trigonometry as well as learning some brand new theories such as calculus.

Applied Mathematics consists of Mechanics, Statistics and Decision mathematics.

In mechanics you will learn how to describe mathematically the motion of objects and how they respond to forces acting upon them.
In statistics you learn how to analyse and summarise numerical data in order to arrive at conclusions.
In decision mathematics you will study a range of algorithms in order to solve problems from business, logistics and computing.

Autograph & Graphical calculators are used extensively in the delivery of the course.

Course Content and Method of Assessment

Mathematics at both AS and A2 level is divided into Pure Mathematics or Core Mathematics and Applied Mathematics.

AS Level

This course will consist of two Core Mathematics units and one Applied Mathematics unit. You will make the final choice of applied unit in September 2009 when your other AS level choices are confirmed. All students will study two core units and either a mechanics or decision mathematics unit.

A Level

This will consist of a further two core units and one applied unit. The applied unit will either be more mechanics, more decision or statistics depending on your preference and previous units.

All units will have a 1 hour 30 minutes written examination.
There is no coursework in AS Maths and only one piece in the A Level.

After the Course

An AS or an A level in Mathematics is a very valuable supporting subject to many courses at A level and degree level, especially in the Sciences, Geography, Psychology, Sociology and Medicine. It is a much sought after qualification for entry to a wide variety of full-time courses in Higher Education.
If you are interested in reading Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, Computer Science or any highly mathematical subject you will obviously need maths.
Many areas of employment see an A level in Mathematics as an important qualification which is often a requirement for vocational qualifications related to areas such as Engineering, Natural Sciences, Computing, Technology, Accounting, Economics and Architecture.

Subject Combinations

Mathematics combines well with all other AS and A level subjects. It is essential for most science based University courses and is also a useful support in a wide range of university courses such as Business, Law, Computing, IT and Economics.

Entry Requirements

Normal entry requirements, plus at least a grade B in Maths. If Maths GCSE is grade B, an average GCSE grade of at least a C across all subjects is required.