A level Further Mathematics

Further Mathematics

Why should I study Further Mathematics?
If you choose to study AS or A2 Further Maths you must also be studying AS and A2 Mathematics. The time commitment is doubled so it is essential that you really do enjoy, and are good at, Maths. It gives you the opportunity to study all the applied maths options, Statistics, Mechanics and Decision Maths to a greater depth. In addition, three extra units of Pure Maths are offered. If you are considering applying for Maths at university you are strongly advised to take this course.

What will I study?
AS Units
Module FP1:
Summation of series; Reduction to Linear Form; Roots of polynomial equations; Complex numbers; Matrices; Algebra and graphs.

Module M1:
Forces; equilibrium; Kinematics; Newton's Law of Motion; momentum.

Module M2:
Centre of mass; circular motion; energy, work and power, use of differential equations.

A2 Units
To complete A2 studies in Further Mathematics, students will need to study module FP3 together with module M2, FP2, D2 giving six modules in total.

Module FP2:
Complex numbers and de Moivre's Theorem, loci in the complex plane, roots of polynomials, hyperbolics

Module FP3:
Differential equations, Maclaurin series, polar geometry.

Module S2:
Continuous random variables; normal distribution; Poisson distribution; hypothesis tests.

What skills do I need?

• Excellent algebraic skills
• Great enthusiasm for Mathematics
• To be able to produce high quality and detailed written Mathematics

How will I be taught?
The subject will be taught by three or four teachers using a variety of methods, including individual and group work.

*Some students choose to pick up AS Further Maths is Year 13 whilst completing A2 Maths.

How is the course assessed?
Each unit is assessed by means of a 1½ hr written examination. There is no coursework.

What will this course prepare me for?
Mathematics is a much sought after qualification for entry to a wide variety of careers and Higher Education courses. Examples include accountancy, law, teaching, engineering, IT, medicine, mathematics and computing.

For students applying to study Mathematics at highly competitive universities (such as Oxford, Cambridge, Warwick), Further Maths will oftenbe expected, alongside Mathematics and 2 other full A Levels.

Private Study
As an approximate guideline AS subjects require 3-4 hrs of independent study each; A2 subjects 4-5 hrs each and GCSE subjects 2 hrs each.

What materials will I need to purchase?
Graphical calculators are exceptionally useful for students studying Further Mathematics and students will have the opportunity to purchase one, should they choose, in September.