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A Level Mathematics

At St Edmund’s College, A Level Mathematics is a popular post-GCSE choice and we have a strong track record of exceptional results.

The Mathematics Department offers high levels of support, including in-depth revision schemes. You will learn in six specialised Mathematics rooms, equipped with computing facilities and tablets. 

Enrichment opportunities at St Ed’s include:

  • UK Mathematics Challenges (UKMC) and Team Challenges
  • National UKMC Competition in London
  • Algebra certificate
  • Mathematics clinic
  • Mathematics games
  • Maths Challenge preparation
Head of Department Mrs H Fraser BSc PGCE (East Anglia)
Syllabus Edexcel

Course structure

 A Level Mathematics covers the following topics:

 

Pure mathematics Statistics Mechanics
  • Topic 1: Proof
  • Topic 2: Algebra and functions
  • Topic 3: Coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane
  • Topic 4- Sequences and series
  • Topic 5: Trigonometry
  • Topic 6: Exponentials and logarithms
  • Topic 7: Differentiation
  • Topic 8: Integration
  • Topic 9: Numerical methods
  • Topic 10: Vectors
  • Topic 1: Statistical sampling
  • Topic 2: Data presentation and interpretation
  • Topic 3: Probability
  • Topic 4: Statistical distributions
  • Topic 5: Statistical hypothesis testing
  • Topic 6: Quantities and units in mechanics
  • Topic 7: Kinematics
  • Topic 8: Forces and Newton’s Law
  • Topic 9: Moments
Assessment

There are three 2-hour external assessments completed at the end of Rhetoric II (Year 13).

Papers 1 and 2 – 2 hours each (33.33% each)

  • Pure mathematics

Paper 3 – 2 hour written (33.33%)

  • Statistics and mechanics
Key skills developed
Using mathematical skills, arguments and logic to solve problems Simplifying real-life situations so mathematics canbe used to show what is happening and what might happen in different circumstances
Understanding and demonstrating what is meant by proof in mathematics Using calculator technology and other resources (such as formulae booklets or statistical tables) effectively and appropriately

 

The things of this world cannot be made known without a knowledge of mathematics.
Roger Bacon, Philosopher

Future pathways

People entering today’s most lucrative sectors such as IT, banking and the stock market need to be confident using mathematics on a daily basis and many employers still look for an A Level Mathematics qualification.

Even where pure mathematics is not required, other mathematics skills learned at A Level, such as logical thinking, problem-solving and statistical analysis, are considered desirable in further education and in the workplace.