Use of Mathematics

Overview

Use of Mathematics and Free Standing Mathematics Qualifications (FSMQ) courses were developed to enable the study of mathematical topics in practical, real-life contexts. We will be using 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, and specialised maths software.

Course Outline

AS Level

Unit 1: Algebra USE1 – You will be fitting functions to data, including straight lines, quadratics, trigonometric and exponential functions. Other tasks include the interpretation of models and using algebraic techniques.
Unit 2 and Unit 3 are FSMQ units. We will be studying Data Analysis (statistics) and Decision Mathematics.

A2 Level

Unit 4: FSMQ Calculus – Differentiation, including applications to gradients, stationary points and increasing and decreasing functions. Integration, to include the solving of first order differential equations.
Unit 5: Mathematical Applications USE2 – A coursework portfolio. You will be required to produce two pieces of work which must be based upon the work of two different units you have studied.
Unit 6: Mathematical Comprehension USE3 – You will be required to understand and use mathematical writing derived from the content of the Algebra and Calculus units. The questions in Section A will be based in contexts using data from a pre-released Data Sheet. In Section B you will be required to read a brief unseen article, describing the application of mathematical principles in context, upon which a number of questions will be based.

Assessment

Units 1-4 are assessed by an examination of 1 hour.
Unit 5 is a 100% portfolio unit.
Unit 6 is assessed by an examination of 1½ hours.
Examining Board – AQA.

Special Entry Requirements

GCSE Mathematics grade B.

Prohibited Options

Statistics AS, Mathematics AS.

Career and Progression Opportunities

For most courses Use of Mathematics is as valuable a support as Mathematics itself and, in many ways it is more valuable as it focuses on the application of Mathematics in context. It would support Business and Finance, Architecture, Chemistry, Computing, Biology, Geography, Psychology, Management Science and Computing as well as being a suitable subject for students planning towards Dentistry, most Economics courses, Medicine or Pharmacy.

Other Information

• A level Use of Mathematics is a national pilot qualification.
• Graphical Calculators are allowed/required in all modules which you will be expected to purchase from
  College.
• The FSMQ units are stand-alone short qualifications in their own right and are each worth UCAS points.

Find out more in our Use of Mathematics podcast

This information is correct for September 2012 entry.