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If you enjoyed learning Maths at school, why not consider taking your interest to A Level? You will extend your skills in algebra, trigonometry and geometry from GCSE and will be introduced to new areas of Maths such as calculus (for maximising functions), series (for calculating regular savings account balances) and exponentials (for working out how many
radioactive particles remain).
You’ll use technology to do data analysis with large data sets. You’ll also develop your skills in probability and discover new ideas such as the normal distribution (what’s a good IQ score?), regression for making predictions and hypothesis testing. In addition, you will learn about forces, motion, moments and vectors, including calculating how long it will take a car to drive up a hill when it is pulling a caravan.
You should normally have achieved at least five GCSEs at grade 9-4. For A Level Mathematics, you must have at least agrade 6 in GCSE Mathematics. In addition, you need to enjoy Mathematics – especially algebra!If you are expecting a grade 7 or above, you could consider taking A Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics.
You will study the following:
2/3rds Pure Maths:
Extend your skills in algebra, trigonometry and coordinate geometry from GCSE. Plus new topics such as:
– Calculus: What is the most efficient size for a baked bean tin to minimise the metal used? How fast do sky divers reach?
– Sequences & Series: If you invest £1000 every year into a bank account with 1.2% interest, how long is it till you save £20,000?
– Exponentials: What will the world’s population be in 2050? How hot will a cup of tea be 10 minutes after making it?
1/6th Mechanics:
– Newton’s Laws of Motion are used to model cars pulling trailers down hills, friction, projectiles and see-saws.
1/6th Statistics:
– Sampling, data presentation and interpretation from Large Data Sets; probability; and statistical hypothesis testing. Can you tell if a new drug cures more patients than the old treatment?
Lesson activities are wide ranging, from classroom discussions on how best to mathematically model a situation, topractising problem solving questions in pairs. Information Technology, such as spreadsheets, graphic calculators andonline apps will be used to introduce and explore concepts. Students will also participate in the Senior Maths Challengeand can help out at Maths competitions for feeder schools we organise every year.
100% exams; consisting of three exam papers, each two hours long.
Textbooks for the two years: £80.
Course materials per year: £14.50.
New calculator: £20 - £60, depending on the scientific/graphical model.
