Further Mathematics -‘A’ Level

 Course Leaders: Linda Hinds

What’s it all about?

As the name suggests this is the study of mathematics taken further than in A level mathematics. It will mainly involve further pure mathematics with the emphasis on algebraic methods in addition to studying an applied subject. This is aimed at students who have chosen mathematics as an A level option already and may be looking for further study at university in either a mathematics, engineering or science course.

What are the entry requirements?

9 – 7 in GCSE mathematics.

A student with a passion for mathematics and is possibly considering a career related to mathematics, engineering or the sciences.

What will I learn on this course?

The course will cover pure mathematics in more detail than the ordinary A level and then students will have the opportunity to cover other aspects of mathematics in more detail such as mechanics, statistics or decision maths.

How will I be assessed?

There will be four examination papers sat after two years of study.

Paper 1: Core Pure Mathematics 1 (*Paper code: 9FM0/01)

Paper 2: Core Pure Mathematics 2 (*Paper code: 9FM0/02)

Each paper is: 1 hour and 30 minutes written examination 25% of the qualification 75 marks

Content overview Proof, Complex numbers, Matrices, Further algebra and functions, Further calculus, Further vectors, Polar coordinates, Hyperbolic functions, Differential equations Assessment overview

Paper 1 and Paper 2 may contain questions on any topics from the Pure Mathematics content.

Paper 3: Further Mathematics Option 1 (*Paper codes: 9FM0/3A-3D)

Written examination: 1 hour and 30 minutes 25% of the qualification 75 marks

Content overview **Students take one of the following four options:

A: Further Pure Mathematics 1

B: Further Statistics 1

C: Further Mechanics 1

D: Decision Mathematics 1

Paper 4: Further Mathematics Option 2 (*Paper codes: 9FM0/4A-4G)

Written examination: 1 hour and 30 minutes 25% of the qualification 75 marks

Content overview **Students take one of the following seven options:

A: Further Pure Mathematics 2

B: Further Statistics 1

C: Further Mechanics 1

D: Decision Mathematics 1

E: Further Statistics 2

F: Further Mechanics 2

G: Decision Mathematics 2

What do your current students say?

‘A very challenging but enjoyable subject which stretches mathematical understanding to its limits.’

‘Considered to be difficult; however, the quality of teaching makes it seems easy.’

‘Further maths involves lots of problem solving that gives you a good sense of achievement when you finish a lesson.’

Is there anything else I need to know?

The qualification is recognised by employers and in higher education as an indication of high ability in mathematics. Some universities regard it as essential if a degree in mathematics is contemplated.

Who can I contact for further information?

Vanessa.Bowden@WestSomersetCollege.org