Course Details
MATHEMATICS AS / A LEVEL
MATHEMATICS AS / A LEVEL
You study mathematics because it is fascinating, challenging and elegant and because it provides skills much in demand for a wide range of careers. You will extend your knowledge of algebra and trigonometry, learn about calculus and vectors, and encounter new areas of mathematics in decision maths.
At Scarborough Sixth Form College students choose at enrolment whether to take Maths with Statistics or Maths with Mechanics. This determines the third module in U6 – the AS course is common to all students. The choice is really quite simple – choose mechanics if you are also doing physics, if not choose statistics.
The courses we will be offering are:
- A level Mathematics with options in Mechanics or Statistics
- A level Further Mathematics as a second A level in Maths.
- At AS level Mathematics and Further Maths.
- At GCSE One-year modular course.
Are there any special requirements?
Yes! You should have at least grade C in GCSE Maths at higher level, grade B preferred. For Further Maths at least grade B is usual.
What and how will I be studying?
GSCE
The content of the course is almost identical with that of GCSE Maths courses taken in schools.
AS & A LEVEL
In the Core modules you will be extending your knowledge and understanding of Pure maths topics covered in GCSE such as Algebra, Trigonometry and Coordinate Geometry and extending these ideas into new areas.
In Decision Maths you will use algorithms to solve practical problems in a variety of contexts and in either Mechanics or Statistics you will apply Pure Mathematics to particular areas of application.
Increased use is being made of a variety of computer software, including the acclaimed Autograph package.
Course Structure:
Lower Sixth:
C1, C2, D1: ‘AS’ Level Mathematics
|
Module |
Exam date |
Content |
|
C1 |
Jan L6 |
Indices and surds, Polynomials, Coordinate Geometry and Graphs, Differentiation |
|
C2 |
June L6 |
Trigonometry, Sequences and Series, Algebra, Integration |
|
D1 |
June L6 |
Algorithms, Graph Theory, Networks, Linear Programming |
A2 Year 2
C3, C4, S1: A Level Mathematics (Statistics student)
C3, C4, M1: A Level Mathematics (Mechanics student)
|
Module |
Exam date |
Content |
|
C3 |
Jan U6 |
Algebra and functions, Trigonometry, Differentiation and integration, Numerical methods |
|
C4 |
June U6 |
Algebra and graphs, Differentiation and integration, First order differential equations, Vectors |
|
S1 |
June U6 |
Representation of data, Probability, Discrete random variables, Bivariate data |
|
Or M1 |
June U6 |
Force as a vector, Equilibrium, Kinematics, Newton’s Laws, Linear momentum |
What skills will I need and be developing during the course?
In all course the ability to write down clear and logically argued solutions is emphasised and developed throughout. At A/AS level in particular the skill of forming and manipulating algebraic expressions is developed.
How is the Course assessed?
At A Level
There are 6 module exams, 4 Core modules in Pure Mathematics, 1 in either Mechanics or Statistics, and 1 Decision Maths. Uniquely for Mathematics 4 modules are assessed at AS level and only 2 at A2 level. Each is assessed by a 1½ hour written paper. For Further Maths 6 more exams are taken.
At AS Level
This is the first year of the appropriate A level course there are 3 module exams. Each is assessed by a 1½ hour written paper.
There is no coursework in either A or AS level Mathematics.
At GSCE
There are 3 written examinations and no coursework element. The exams are spread out over the year.
What career opportunities are there?
A level Mathematics is an entry requirement to several subjects at University. Often, even if not required by some courses admissions tutors positively regard it.
Mathematicians are extensively employed in a wide variety of professions, including Accountancy, Computing, Statistical Forecasting, and Meteorology. Combined with Physics, Mathematics provides the foundation for degree courses in Engineering.
GCSE in Mathematics at least grade C is required by many employers and by Universities for entry to a wide range of course including Teaching.
…and what else?
Calculators are needed at both A/AS level and GCSE although both contain non-calculator elements. Consult the department staff for suitable models for each level.
The Maths department website leads to a wide variety of sites relevant to A level and GCSE Maths. Much use is made of the Nathan Bodington Virtual Learning Environment and of the MyMaths website.
The department has a link with a college in Sweden giving A-level students the opportunity to be involved in an exchange with Swedish maths students.
Download Course Description File: Mathematics.pdf