Mathematics (Accelerated) AS/A Level

Curriculum Area: Maths and Computing

Accelerated Mathematics A Level

This course is specifically designed for those students who began their AS Level Mathematics in Year 11 and have successfully completed the first AS unit (C1).

Five further units will be studied which, when combined with C1, lead to an A Level in Mathematics.

It is a one year course with a contact time of six hours per week leading to an A Level in Mathematics. Students can then opt to take Further Mathematics in Year 2 if they wish.

Advanced Subsidiary [AS]

Advanced Level (A2)

Methods of Teaching and Learning

The course is taught by well qualified and experienced staff. Teaching methods include exposition and practice sessions, together with some discussions, problem solving, investigations and practical work. Students are expected to do a substantial amount of revision and practice outside the classroom, and workshop support is available for students needing additional help.

Methods of Assessment

Students take two written examinations in January (this completes the AS course). The A level course is assessed by three further written examinations taken in June. The Further Maths course is assessed by six examinations in the second year. There is no assessed ‘coursework’ element in any of these courses.

Resources

Appropriate textbooks are provided on loan for the duration of the course, and practical equipment is made available as necessary. The College library is well stocked with Mathematics books, and students are encouraged to use IT resources as appropriate. Students are expected to provide their own scientific calculators.

Progression

AS/A Level Mathematics is accepted (with other subjects) as an appropriate qualification for entry to almost any career or degree course. The subject is particularly recommended for those intending to go on to study Mathematics, Engineering, Computing or the Physical Sciences.

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at grade C or above or the equivalent including GCSE English at C or above and GCSE Mathematics at grade A or A* plus a grade C or above in C1 (the first AS module) or Additional Mathematics. Note: this examination board used for this course is Edexcel. Any students who have a C1 from OCR or AQA must sit the Edexcel version in the first year at St Brendan’s.

Charges

There are no specific charges payable in connection with these courses, except for the purchase of a calculator if necessary.