Mathematics AS and A Level

Course Code: S0719-S0764 Course Length: One year for AS and two years for a full A Level Full Description:

When you study Mathematics at A Level, you will not only learn new mathematical skills, but will also apply them to solving problems. You will see how the subject can be used to show what is happening and what might happen in different real life situations.

If you are intending on studying Mathematics or another maths-rich degree at university, we strongly recommend you combine a Mathematics A Level with a Further Mathematics A Level to give a deeper insight into the subject. See page 34 for details of our Further Mathematics A Level course.

The Mathematics course includes core (pure) mathematics plus statistics and/or mechanics.

Core mathematics extends your knowledge of topics such as algebra, trigonometry and geometry as well as learning some new ideas such as calculus. These ideas are interesting in their own right, but they also serve as a foundation for other work you will do.

In statistics, you will learn how to analyse and summarise numerical data to arrive at conclusions and predictions about it.

Mechanics describes mathematically the motion of objects and how they respond to forces acting on them. Many of the ideas studied here form an introduction to modern fields of study such as robotics and biomechanics, as well as the more traditional ones of engineering and physics.

Mathematics students enter the UK Maths Challenge and visit the Maths at UEA Open Day. You will also be able to attend Maths Inspiration talks by mathematicians or professionals working within mathematics; recent talks include ‘The Mathematics of Juggling’ and ‘Maths and Roller Coasters’. We can also help to arrange work-experience days with high profile companies that use mathematics.

Mathematics can be challenging at this level. To succeed, you will need to be able to think clearly and logically and, just as importantly, to persevere when you can’t immediately see the solution to a problem.

There is a total of six modules to be completed. Assessment is mainly through written examinations, though there is also a small amount of coursework. Mathematics can be taken with any other subjects, but students often choose; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Psychology, Business Studies or Geography.

Mathematics A Level could lead on to a related degree course, such as in mathematics, science, economics, engineering or computing, but the skills you will learn, such as thinking clearly and logically, will be useful in wide range of other subjects. Mathematics is identified by selective universities as one of the subjects they prefer applicants to have studied at A Level. Mathematical knowledge is also essential in a wide range of careers including ones in science, engineering, computing and management.

Entry requirements:

• Five GCSEs at grades A*-C including English
• A GCSE at grade A*-B in Mathematics
• A GCSE average points score of more than 5.7 (see page 16 for details of how this is calculated).

Please contact the Advice Shop for details of costs and start dates.

Please note that although the information given is believed to be correct at the time of publication, course information, costs where applicable and attendance details may change.