Mathematics - AS/A2 AQA
Why choose Mathematics?
This is a highly regarded and enjoyable A level. Many students will find it a much more stimulating and rewarding course than at GCSE level, with greater focus on imaginative problem solving skills. The skills and knowledge which you develop will be useful in a wide range of other subjects and careers, particularly in the areas of science and business.
What can I expect to learn?
The maths course has a modular structure with three modules leading to an AS level in the first year and six modules to an A level. The core of the subject is the Pure Maths modules (Core 1, 2, 3 and 4). The first module extends certain topics you have studied at GCSE (equations, graphs, geometry) and introduces new ones (calculus) so that you have the basic tools needed to study maths at a more advanced level in Core 2, 3 and 4. In addition students will study some Applied Maths modules. These modules are concerned with how maths can solve reallife problems. In the first year everyone studies Decision 1. In the second year students have a choice of studying Statistics 1 or Mechanics 1.
How will I learn?
Maths is a 'doing' subject. Your teacher will explain new concepts using a mixture of demonstration and exploration, with regular use of ICT, but most of all studying Maths is about students investigating and tackling problems themselves.
How will I be assessed?
Throughout the course your progress will be monitored with regular homework assignments and tests. Your final assessment in each module is by examination. In each year you will take one examination in January and the remaining two examinations in June. There is no coursework involved.
What subjects combine well Mathematics?
The study of mathematics is particularly valuable for any students who wishes to study physics or chemistry. Students studying biology, psychology or geography will also benefit from following a mathematics course and should consider the AS level if they do not wish to take the full A level.
Where does this lead? What can I do next?
As well as being a subject which can be studied in its own right, mathematics will support most scientific or business related courses and areas of employment.
What background, skills and achievements do I need?
You need to get at least a B grade, at the Higher Level, at GCSE in order to have the confidence and algebraic skills to move on to AS/A2. Success in mathematics requires determination in solving problems and commitment. Above all, you must enjoy doing maths.
*Further Maths will be available for students who achieve grade A* or A at GCSE.
The oldest, shortest words - "yes" and "no" are those which require the most thought."
Pythagoras
