Subject:   MATHEMATICS AS/A level

Number of lessons per fortnight:   10

Students opting for the AS/A level course should have a grade B or better at GCSE. This is a demanding course leading to an excellent qualification respected by Colleges, Universities, Industry and Employers. Mathematicians are described as ‘Artists who draw patterns with numbers’. The course although demanding is enjoyable and it is recommended that students who wish to embark on this course consult year 12 and 13 students who are at present on the course.

THE AS Course comprises 3 equally weighted modules:

Core Mathematics 1 (C1), Core Maths 2 (C2) and Statistics 1 (S1).

Autumn term activities:

C1: Basic algebra; Co-ordinate geometry; Polynomials; Uncertainty; Indices; The language of Mathematics.

S1: Averages & graphs; Probability.

Spring term activities:

C2: Sequences & series; Differentiation; Integration; Trigonometry.

S1: Sampling; Combinations & permutations; Further probability.

Summer term activities:

C2: Logarithms & exponentials; Further differentiation & integration.

S1: The Binomial distribution; Hypothesis testing

Assessment:

Pupils sit exams in C1 in January, and then C2 and S1 in June. By studying a further 3 modules C3, C4 and S2 in Y13 the AS can be converted into a full A-level. Student’s understanding is assessed during lessons and their homework tasks are marked weekly. There is a coursework component to C3 namely ‘Solutions of equations by numerical methods’.

Homework:

Homework will be continually set and students will be expected to do independent work outside of the classroom. A formal piece of homework is to be submitted for marking at least once a week.

Equipment requirements/recommended texts:

Students will be given 3 textbooks covering each of the modules – these are for use in the class and at home. It is essential that a scientific calculator is brought to every lesson (but a graphical calculator is even better! These are available to buy from the Maths Department).

Contact:   Mr G. Adomako

Subject:  AS Level Further Mathematics

Number of lessons per fortnight:   10

This is a course that should only be taken by students who have achieved a grade A or A* at GCSE. Students opting for this course will sit the 6 Mathematics ‘A’ level modules in year 12. In Year 13 a further 6 modules will be taken. Modules can be tailored to suit the interests of the students. The modules currently taught are FP1,

(Further pure 1), FP2, FP3, D1 (Decision mathematics 1), D2 and DE (Differential equations). There is a coursework component to the DE module.

 Contact:  Mr G Adomako