Play Video NowMathematics
Exam Board: OCR
Head of Department: Mr D A Jones
Am I suited to this course?
Entry requirements - a minimum of a B grade at GCSE.
You should also enjoy and have a genuine interest in Mathematics. A willingness to work hard and the ability to use your initiative will also be welcome. You should appreciate the use of algebra to solve problems. Mathematics can be usefully combined with virtually every other A level subject.
What will we study?
The course is split into 6 modules. Four modules are Pure Mathematics (C1, C2, C3, C4) and two are Applied Mathematics (M1, S1).
The Pure Maths continues the algebra that you will have learned at GCSE, introduces you to calculus and extends your knowledge of trigonometry.
The Applied Maths covers statistics (probability and the analysis of data) and mechanics (maths applied to problems of forces and motion).
What work will I do?
The small class sizes and the interest in the subject create more opportunities for discussion. Lessons will be delivered in a similar way to GCSE but the work will be more challenging so communication with the teacher will be vital. Those who continue the subject to A2 will produce one piece of coursework in Pure Maths during the Autumn Term of the Upper Sixth. This will involve using numerical methods to solve equations where the use of spreadsheets is possible.
How will my AS and A level grade be assessed?
There are 6 module papers, each lasting 1 ½ hours, which are spread throughout the course. The first three modules (C1`, C2, M1) are taken in June of the Lower Sixth Year. January of the Upper Sixth is when C3 is sat, leaving C4 and S1 for June of the same year. The coursework mentioned above accounts for 20% of C3 and there is also a comprehension paper that contributes 20% to the C4 mark. The course will see the first award of A* grade at A level. QCA currently intends that this will be based on A2 study. There is the opportunity for modules to be re-sat but students are strongly encouraged to aim for one exam per module
Further Mathematics (MEI)
Exam Board: OCR
Head of Department: Mr D A Jones
Am I suited to this course?
A level Further Mathematics is taken with the A level Maths course and the two together are often referred to as 'double maths' A level. The course is for the very able student with a love of the subject and at least a grade A at GCSE. The course is likely to be particularly suitable for those intending to study the subject, or a course with a high mathematical content, at University. It may be possible for some students to follow an accelerated course in Maths and Further Maths as one option.
What will we study?
You will study at least 6 modules of A level Mathematics and at least a further 6 modules over two years. These additional modules will be chosen from the Pure (FP1, FP2, NM) and the Applied (M2, S2, D1). Students who follow this course achieve a thorough knowledge of all aspects of Mathematics at this level.
There is also the opportunity to study for an AS level in Further Maths. This requires only 3 of the above modules (usually FP1, NM and D1) in addition to the A level in Mathematics. The exceptional student may even attempt 15 or more modules overall to gain additional awards in Further Mathematics.
What work will I do?
Coursework projects at this level are found in Differential Equations (DE) and in Numerical Methods (NM). Lessons will be similar in style and structure to those at GCSE but students should be keen to make even greater contributions in class.
How will my AS and A level grades be assessed?
The first 3 additional modules (usually FP1, NM and D1) will be taken in June of the Lower Sixth year. January of the Upper Sixth is when M2 or S2 is sat, leaving FP2 and S2 or M2 for the June of the same year. The coursework mentioned above accounts for 20% of NM and it is even more important that students aim to sit each module once only.