Key Stage 5

AS and A2 Mathematics Course

Students study the Edexcel Mathematics Syllabus – 8371. The AS/A2 mathematics course is open to students who achieve an B-A* and show a flair and sound working knowledge of the subject.

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What is this subject about?

Mathematics at this level consists of the study of Pure Mathematics and the study of application of Mathematics to the physical world:

• Statistics (for understanding and interpreting information) – in year 12
• Mechanics (talking about movement of objects and forces acting on them) – in year 13

The course develops understanding and resourcefulness in the use of mathematics.

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Course Content

To gain the AS award, students will study two pure mathematics core units (C1 and C2) covering topics in algebra, trigonometry, calculus and coordinate geometry, amongst others, and the S1 application unit in Statistics 1.

To convert AS level Mathematics into A level Mathematics students study two further pure mathematics core units (C3 and C4) covering more algebra, trigonometry, calculus and other topics, and an application unit in Mechanics 1.

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Teaching and Learning Styles

Students will experience formal lectures, self-study units, use of ICT, tutorial support and regular structured homework assignments.

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Entry requirements

Students wishing to study AS/A2 Mathematics must have at least a high grade B or above in GCSE Mathematics.

For progressions to A2 students must have an AS qualification at grade D or above.

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Progress & Assessment

Each module is examined by means of 1 hour and 30 minutes long paper. These can be taken only in June 2015.

However, there will be an official Mock test in January for C1 in first year and C3 in second year, with other shorter assessments each module of the year to follow the progress of the students.

It is very important to take these Mock tests seriously as the real exams as it will be important indicator for decision will some students continue with the course or not.

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Where can this subject lead me?

Students intending to follow degree path in Computing, Engineering or Physics will probably find AS and A level GCEMathematics a condition of entry to university courses. Mathematical skills are highly prized and an AS or A level qualification in some form of mathematics will be valuable when applying for university entry and will give you a very significant advantage in the job market.