STUDENT GUIDE TO THE SIXTH FORM MATHEMATICS COURSES

The AQA Mathematics Specification A course is a two-year course, which aims to provide a stimulating, enjoyable and ultimately rewarding experience.  We offer Mathematics and Further Mathematics at both the AS and A2 level.  The formal titles of the courses are:

These are examined by AQA.                        TOP

COURSE STRUCTURE

MATHEMATICS

In the first year of this A level course you will study three modules, called ‘Methods’, ‘Pure 1’ and ‘Mechanics 1’, which will lead to an AS in Mathematics.  All three modules will be sat in June as independent 1hour 20mins external examinations.  The Mechanics module also requires one piece of coursework to be completed.  This piece of coursework comprises 10% of the total AS mark.  Every module may be re-sat once, if required, but the work will continue to pile up so try to keep on top of each module.

In the second year of the A level course you will study three more modules, forming an A2, which will result in you gaining the full A level at the end of the two years.  The three modules are called ‘Pure 2’, ‘Pure 3’ and ‘Statistics 1’.  The Statistics module also requires one piece of coursework to be completed, which comprises 10% of the total A2 mark.

You will be taught throughout the one or two years by two teachers.  The ‘Methods’ module will be split between the two teachers and both parts will be completed before the end of the Michaelmas term.  You will then study ‘Mechanics 1’ and ‘Pure 1’ at the same time, one module with each teacher, to complete your AS level.  The course will be finished by the end of the Lent term in order to allow sufficient time for revision.

The A2 course will follow a similar pattern with one teacher guiding you through ‘Statistics 1’ while the other teaches you ‘Pure 2’.  ‘Pure 3’ will then be split between the two teachers.      TOP

FURTHER MATHEMATICS

The Further Mathematics courses are organised in a similar way but, with the smaller numbers involved, can be tailored to some extent in order to suit the individual.

The AS course will comprise of three modules-‘Pure 6’, ‘Discrete 1’ and ‘Mechanics 2’.  The A2 will be made up of ‘Pure 4’, ‘Pure 5’ and one of either ‘Discrete 2’ or ‘Statistics 2’.  The Mechanics and Statistics modules require one piece of coursework each.

A BRIEF EXPLANATION OF THE MODULES

‘Pure 6’ involves the study of Matrices…..an extension of the vector work that you met at GCSE.  Matrices help us to solve problems involving a number of variables – much quicker than solving lots of simultaneous equations.  There is quite a bit of geometry involved as we imagine transforming shapes in 3D.

‘Pure 5’ involves the study of Differential Equations, which help us solve many practical problems involving, for example, velocity and rate of decay.  This module draws on the knowledge of Calculus that you will develop in the Mathematics AS and A2 courses.  We consider some Numerical Methods, looking at the work of Euler, and worry about infinite series.

‘Pure 4’ involves the study of Complex Numbers, the ideas of proof and looks to calculate the arc length of a curve and work with hyperbolic functions.  The concepts of polar co-ordinates are explored….an idea that is picked up in ‘Pure 5’ too.

Discrete Mathematics considers the ‘quickest’ or ‘best’ way of ordering a sequence of events or series of tasks.  It develops the use of algorithms to solve problems.  This area of mathematics is widely used in industry and we will look at ways of maximising profit and matching the best person to a job.  We also meet Game Theory, which considers the chances of winning a game.       TOP

TEACHING ARRANGEMENTS

Written assignments will usually be set twice a week by each teacher, at least in the initial stages, in order to ensure a smooth transition from GCSE to A level.  This may develop into a once-weekly pattern a little later in the course.

The out-of-class work for each teacher should constitute between two and three hours per week; this may involve some written assignments, some reading or some time allocated to personally motivated study.

A graphic calculator and a basic scientific calculator are essential for these AS level and A2 Mathematics course.  We recommend Casio machines and offer the opportunity to buy through the school during the first two weeks of the course.

There are many formulae to learn over the two-year course but, once we are confident that you are familiar with the formulae and their manipulation, formulae booklets are available for tests and will be available in the examinations.

Each term you will receive a syllabus for the module you are embarking on and the dates of any tests and coursework dates involved.  The intention is to give you every possible opportunity to organise and structure your work in order to maximise your potential.                TOP

SUGGESTIONS FOR A SUCCESSFUL TWO YEARS

• Be organised - divide your ring-binder in to sections for each unit / teacher / topic.

• Start a piece of work as soon as it has been set and meet all deadlines.

• Keep well ahead and allow for unexpected delays or problems, where possible.

• Make every effort with each piece of work - stretch yourself mentally.

• Go over returned, marked work to see what problems may still be lingering.

• Always be prepared to ask for help when you think you may need it.

• Let us know of any problems that may be affecting your work.

• Take an active part in the classroom.

• Enjoy it!

The A level Mathematics course had proved increasingly popular and we are now in the eighth year of using what was the SMP 16-19 syllabus.