Sixth Form: Mathematical Studies

Level 3 – Mathematical Studies (AQA 1350)

Subject Overview

The Level 3 Mathematical Studies course, often referred to as “Core Maths”, provides students with an opportunity to extend their understanding of Mathematics in Y12, without studying A-level Mathematics. The course is studied in addition to three full A levels during Year 12. It is a one year course that builds on the GCSE and helps to develop students’ mathematical skills, especially statistical analysis and finance. It supports many A-levels such as Psychology, Sciences, Geography and Economics as well as any future degrees courses, or other technical and vocational qualifications. The Level 3 Mathematical Studies course is worth the same amount of UCAS points as an AS level qualification.

Preparation

The course has a strong focus on number skills, particularly percentages, as well as statistics. Practising these key skills over the summer, on MathsWatch or similar will ensure students have a good grasp of the essential prerequisites before commencing the course.

Entry Requirements

  • Candidates must achieve a Grade 5 at GCSE Maths.  In addition students wishing to study this as a fourth A Level at GCSE would need to achieve an average point score of 5.5

Syllabus (Course Outline and Structure)

Students will study the AQA Mathematical Studies course (code 1350).  This is a one year course with external exams sat at the end of Year 12. The course features sections on personal finance, estimation, statistical techniques, critical analysis of data and models and probability.

More details can be found at the following website:

Expected Costs

Students will have free access to online resources and websites.  There are no mandatory excursions and the only equipment they are required to have (other than the usual contents of a pencil case) is a new scientific calculator, the Casio ClassWiz. 

Complementary Subject Combinations

A number of subjects combine well with Mathematical Studies, but it should not be chosen if you are sitting A Level Mathematics.

The course is particularly useful if studied a long side the following subjects: Biology, Psychology, Computing, Geography and Economics.

Schemes of Work

Past Papers

At present there are a number of past papers available from the AQA website, and STEM website

Useful Links

Links to a selection of good sites that support A-level preparation and revision are provided below.

Other information

Mathematical studies is a highly valued qualification, by both employers and universities. It is worth the same amount of UCAS points as an AS Level and works well in partnership with other courses for students who do not wish to take A-level Mathematics.