Mathematics and Further Mathematics

Mathematics/Further Mathematics

Gain problem-solving, analytical, logic and research skills that support further study and a diverse range of careers. This course balances abstract pure mathematical concepts, such as calculus and algebra, with the real-world application of stats and mechanics.

Why St Mary's

Our Mathematics Department includes alumnae of Oxford and Cambridge Universities, who are passionate about teaching this rewarding subject. You will study in our well-equipped department, using interactive software and a selection of core resources, including workbooks, textbooks and revision guides.

Our enriched learning opportunities can include:

Enabling your transition from GCSE

The step-up to A Level Maths is a big one but the teachers at St Mary's will be behind you every step of the way! We will always be available to support you, during lessons or at a lunchtime surgery. You can even catch us on the staircase to ask us about a problem which is troubling you!

We want all students to feel they can get the most out of lessons, and where appropriate we involve help from our SEN team for one-to-one support lessons.

Course overview

AS Level Mathematics content

  • Paper 1 Pure Mathematics (100 marks)
    • Proof
    • Algebra and functions
    • Coordinate geometry
    • Trigonometry
    • Sequences
    • Exponentials and logarithms
    • Calculus
    • Vectors
  • Paper 2 Statistics and mechanics (50 marks)
    • Statistical sampling
    • Data presentation and interpretation
    • Probability
    • Statistical distributions
    • Statistical hypothesis testing
    • Quantities and units in mechanics
    • Kinematics
    • Forces and Newton’s laws

A Level (Mathematics)

  • Paper 1 Pure Mathematics (100 marks)
    • Proof
    • Algebra and functions
    • Coordinate geometry
    • Trigonometry
    • Sequences
    • Exponentials and logarithms
    • Calculus
    • Vectors
  • Paper 2 Pure Mathematics (100 marks)
    • Proof
    • Algebra and functions
    • Coordinate geometry in (x,y) plane
    • Sequences
    • Trigonometry
    • Exponentials and logarithms
    • Calculus
    • Vectors
  • Paper 3 Statistics and mechanics (100 marks)
    • Statistical sampling
    • Data presentation and interpretation
    • Probability
    • Statistical distributions
    • Statistical hypothesis testing
    • Quantities and units in mechanics
    • Kinematics
    • Forces and Newton’s laws
    • Moments

A Level Further Mathematics content

4 modules (2 Compulsory Core, plus 2 extra modules)

  • Paper 1 Core Pure Mathematics (75 marks)
    • Proof
    • Complex numbers
    • Matrices
    • Further algebra and functions
    • Further calculus
    • Further vectors
  • Paper 2 Core Pure Mathematics (75 marks)
    • Polar coordinates
    • Complex numbers
    • Hyperbolic functions
    • Further algebra and functions
    • Further calculus
    • Differential equations

Two of the following:

  • Further Pure Mathematics 1
  • Further Statistics 1
  • Further Mechanics 1
  • Decision Mathematics 1

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At a glance

Entry requirements

GCSE grades (or equivalent)

  • Subject 1: Mathematics: 7+ (for Further Mathematics: 8+)
You will enjoy this course if you...
  • Like problem solving
  • Have good communication skills
  • Want to build your analytical skills
  • Are focused and determined

What our teachers say...

"I find a beauty in abstract things. Sometimes a really clever proof has an elegance all of its own. I enjoy listening to students when they are explaining how their method works; it is amazing how good they are at describing their thought-processes in meaningful words."

"Math. It's just there ... you're either right, or you're wrong. That's what I like about it." Katherine Johnson, Mathematician at NASA

Mathematics has played a central role in our history and the development of human civilisation. It underpins all the sciences, and therefore has played a key role in every advance - from medicine, computer technology and Google to space exploration and music. It offers a universal language, understood across the planet and surrounds us in our daily lives, and therefore it will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping our society in the future.

 

A Level Mathematics opens the door to just about anything. A maths-related degree is very highly regarded by employers and can lead into almost any walk of life, from biomedical engineering to air-traffic control.

It would be required for a wide range of degree courses and related careers: accountancy, computing, geography, sciences, actuary, cybernetics, sports science, architecture, economics, law, statistics, biomechanics, engineering, medicine, teaching, business, information technology, environmental studies and psychology.

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