GCE AS Level Mathematics

The AS / A Level Mathematics course builds upon the work undertaken at GCSE. The course has four Core Mathematics modules which all students must study plus two Statistics Modules.

Topics covered in the modules are as follows:

Core 1: Introductory algebra, trigonometry, calculus and coordinate geometry.

Core 2: Algebra of logarithms and series, coordinate geometry of the circle, trigonometry including radian measure and the calculus of maximum and minimum values and areas under curves.

Core 3: Algebra of functions, exponentials and logarithms, trigonometry of multiple and half angles and the differentiation of the trigonometric and algebraic functions using the chain, product and quotient rules.

Core 4: Algebra of partial fractions, coordinate geometry with parameters and using vectors, calculus of differential equations and intergration to find areas and volumes.

Statistics 1: Statistics 1 includes descriptive statistics, probality, regression, correlation and the normal distribution.

Statistics 2: The topics in this module include: special distributions, Binomial and Poisson, theory of continuous random variables and statistical testing.

How you will gain the qualification

Assessment consists of three written 1½ hour papers both at AS and A2.

There will be internal mock examinations on published dates to provide realistic experience.

What qualifications you need

A minimum of 6 full course GCSE’s grade C or above including a grade C or above in one of GCSE English or GCSE English Language. GCSE English Literature is NOT a substitute.

A minimum Grade B in GCSE Maths is also required (Higher tier).

Entry to A2 is conditional on achieving grade A-E at AS level.

Where to next

An AS in Mathematics is very valuable as a supporting subject to many courses at Advanced GCE and degree level, especially in the Sciences and Geography, Psychology, Sociology and Medical courses.

Advanced A2 GCE Mathematics is a much sought-after qualification for entry to a wide variety of fulltime courses in higher education. There are also many areas of employment that see a Mathematics Advanced GCE as an important qualification and it is often a requirement for the vocational qualifications related to these areas.

Examples are: Economics, Medicine, Architecture, Engineering, Accountancy, Teaching, Psychology, Environmental studies and Computing.