Sixth Form: Mathematics

Subject Overview

Mathematics A Level represents an exciting chance to extend your skills in mathematical techniques and problem solving. It covers Pure Maths, building on GCSE work with topics such as trigonometry and vectors plus new mathematical concepts such as calculus and logarithms. In addition there is Applied Maths content in the form of Mechanics and Statistics.

Entry Requirements

  • Grade 7 or higher in Maths plus a pass at the entry level maths test

Preparation

Over the summer holiday, we require future A Level mathematics students to complete this worksheet of 50 fairly demanding GCSE-style questions. Please print off the pdf file, ensure that answers are entered into the appropriate box adjacent to each question and staple neat working to the back of the sheets for handing in during the first lesson of the new term.

Help with questions can be obtained by logging into the HegartyMaths website using the usual codes.

For answers to any queries, please email: Mrs Winiecka.

Syllabus (Course Outline and Structure)

Students will study the AQA A level Mathematics course (code 7357).  This is a two year linear course with three terminal exam papers.

Activities and trips

We have no mandatory trips or activities in Maths, although throughout the two years there may be the opportunity to take part in activities, such as revision days and team challenges, run by the ‘Further Maths Network’ based at Warwick University, with whom we have been cultivating links over the last few years.
This would incur a small cost, usually of between £10 and £30 dependent on the type of activity, and may involve students arranging their own transport to and from the University.

Expected Costs

Other than the cost of the activities that we may run with the ‘Further Maths Network’ there are no expected costs associated with the Maths A Level.  Students will have free access to online copies of the new textbook.  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 and Enrichment Activities

A number of subjects combine well with Mathematics at A-Level. Common combinations include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computing, Geography and Economics.

Resources

Past Papers

Useful Links (internal and external)

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

Other information

Mathematics A Level will support students who go on to study a wide range of different subjects at University or in other forms of Higher Education, the more obvious ones being Maths, Science and Engineering. Its logical thinking and problem solving based structure make it a qualification that can pick students ‘out of the crowd’ in the eyes of many universities and employers, even in non-Maths based courses or industries.