Mathematics

Overview
We use a variety of teaching methods including problem solving in pairs and groups, teacher presentations, student presentations, modelling and solving real world problems, graphic calculators, study packs, specialised maths software.

Course Outline
AS Level
Unit 1 & 2: Core 1 and 2 (compulsory units) – these cover the essential pure mathematical methods that can be applied to real world scenarios. Topics include the solving of equations, graphs and transformations, coordinate geometry, logarithms and exponentials, sequences and series, trigonometry, and the formation of differentiation and integration.
Unit 3: Students have a choice between:
Statistics 1 – students work with real data sets extending the work they have covered in GCSE Maths, such as the calculation of the numerical measures mean, median and mode, and the practical applications of correlation and regression. Elementary probability theory is also studied, and the Binomial and Normal distributions are introduced, or
Mechanics 1 – this unit introduces mathematical modelling in physical situations, and studies motion in one or two dimensions (including the constant acceleration equations), forces on static objects, Newton’s Laws of motion, momentum and projectiles.

A2 Level
Unit 4 & 5: Core 3 and 4 (compulsory units) – these units develop the pure mathematical techniques from AS level and introduce practical applications such as differential equations. New topics include numerical methods and vectors.
Unit 6: Students who studied Statistics 1 at AS Level will be able to choose:
Statistics 2 – this unit introduces such practical applications as hypothesis testing and contingency tables. New probability distributions include the Poisson distribution and the Rectangular distribution.
Students who studied Mechanics 1 at AS Level will be able to choose:
Mechanics 2 – students study more advanced physical situations including circular motion, moments and centres of mass, work and energy, further kinematics, and applications of different equations.
As an alternative, all students will also have the opportunity of opting for Decision 1, which introduces networks, algorithms, sorting and linear programming.

Assessment
No Coursework
Examination (100%)
Examining Board – AQA.

Special Entry Requirements
Students need to have done the higher paper at GCSE Maths and obtained grade B or above. However, students who have achieved grade B will be strongly recommended to study Use of Mathematics or Statistics at A level (unless they are taking Physics) .

Prohibited Options
Statistics or Use of Mathematics .

Career and Progression Opportunities
Mathematics is a common part of degree courses such as Business and Finance, Architecture, Chemistry, Biology, Psychology, Management Science and Computing. Mathematics is essential for courses such as Engineering, Physics, Economics and Mathematics itself. Mathematics A level keeps many doors open and is valuable for almost every future career plan except specialised options.

Other Information
Students will be required to purchase a Casio graphical calculator from College . 

This information is correct for September 2012 entry.