Maths

Subject leader and contact

Hazel Bray : Head of Maths

Hbray@cambournevc.org

Qualification

A-Level Mathematics

AQA - 7357

Entry Requirements

Grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics

Why study Maths?

A-level Mathematics is a highly regarded qualification and most importantly, when tackled with enthusiasm and determination, this course will be a great deal of fun. The focus throughout the course will be on problem solving, developing resilience and logical thinking as well as exploring the links between the various aspects of mathematics. The study of mathematics at A-level requires perseverance, a genuine interest in and enjoyment in the subject.

Where can it lead?

A-level Mathematics supports a wide range of other A-level courses such as Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Psychology, Geography, Business studies and Economics. Students with qualifications in A-level Mathematics find the skills and knowledge gained from the course useful when pursuing careers in areas such as medicine, engineering, veterinary science, finance, accounting, computing, science, law and marketing. National statistics show that students who took A-level Mathematics ended up earning, on average, 10 per cent more than those of similar ability and background who did not!

Maths Extras

Our focus will always be not only to support you to achieve the best you can in the qualification itself, but also to enrich your learning within lessons in the context of mathematical ideas. Mathematics offers you an opportunity to be involved in national competitions, such as the UKMT Senior Maths Challenge both individually and in teams. You will have the opportunity to enjoy exploring mathematics by attending nationally run talks and shows such as the Maths Inspiration show in Cambridge. In addition, links with the Royal Institution and Cambridge University will allow you to attend inspiring lectures and events showing mathematics at its best.

Course Content

The A-level course covers the three main components of mathematics: pure mathematics, mechanics and statistics, and every student will study each of these three components over the 2-year course.

The course is examined by 3 papers which are sat at the end of Year 13. Each paper is 2 hours long and out of 100 marks.

Paper 1 – Pure Mathematics only

Paper 2 – This paper is divided into 2 sections, each section is worth 50 marks:
Section A – Pure Mathematics
Section B – Mechanics

Paper 3 – This paper is divided into 2 sections, each section is worth 50 marks:
Section A – Pure Mathematics
Section B – Statistics

Component 1: Pure Mathematics (66.6% of the A-Level)
Pure mathematics forms the foundation of the course, underpinning both the Statistics and Mechanics components of the course. It is concerned with how to abstract a problem and reason about it in a logical manner. You will learn new techniques that reveal a deeper understanding of the world we live in. It includes the topics: Proof; Algebra and functions; Coordinate geometry; Sequences and series; Trigonometry; Exponentials and logarithms; Differentiation; Integration; Numerical methods and Vectors.

Component 2: Statistics (16.7% of the A-Level)
Statistics is about how to analyse and interpret data gathered from the real world. Throughout this component of the course, you will become familiar with manipulating a large data set using both your calculator and computer software. Manipulating and interpreting data are valuable skills which complement studying many subjects such as Economics, Geography, Psychology and Sociology. It includes topics: Statistical sampling; Data presentation and interpretation; Probability; Statistical distributions and Statistical hypothesis testing.

Component 3: Mechanics (16.7% of the A-Level)
Mechanics is primarily concerned with how the physical world can be modelled using mathematics. By modelling the real world, you can make predictions about what may happen in a given set of circumstances and more deeply understand why particular events occur. This component of the course complements studying all science subjects but in particular Physics. It includes the topics: Quantities and Units in Mechanics; Kinematics; Forces and Newton’s Laws and Moments.

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Cambourne Sixth Form
Sheepfold Lane, Cambourne
Cambridge CB23 6FR

Tel: 01954 284000
Email: info@cambournesixthform.org

The Cam Academy Trust

Cambourne Sixth Form is part of The Cam Academy Trust, a company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales with company number 0749 1945.
The registered office is at Comberton Village College, West Street, Comberton, Cambridgeshire, CB23 7DU