Key Stage 5 Maths and Further Maths

Maths

In the sixth form we offer Maths and Further Maths at AS and A2 Level. Both courses are modular and follow the AQA syllabus. Examinations are 90 minutes long and each is worth a total of 75 marks. Departmental assessments are scheduled throughout the course; students are given a folder at the beginning of the year which gives details of the various assessments. These allow opportunities for regular progress checks and constructive feedback.

Maths course outline

  • Maths Year 12 – Core 1 (January), Core 2 (June), Statistics 1 (June)
  • Maths Year 13 – Core 3 (January), Core 4 (June), Mechanics 1 (January)
  • Further Maths Year 12 – Decision 1 (January), Decision 2 (June) Further Pure 1 (June)
  • Further Maths Year 13 – Further Pure 2, 3, 4 (Choice of January or June exams)

Why study Maths?

Mathematics plays a key role in virtually all areas of science, industry and commerce. Studies have shown that people with Maths A-Level tend to earn more on average than people without it. Though this itself may not be a good enough reason to study maths, there are plenty of other good reasons! Maths A-Level requires creativity to solve problems. You will also develop your analysis and logic skills as well as become more confident at working systematically. Add in the improvements to your basic numeracy skills and you've got yourself a set of skills which would make you more desirable for almost any job.

Which careers can Maths lead to?

Apart from academic research, mathematics is vital in careers such as engineering, computer-related industries, and in the City – banking, trading, finance, accountancy and insurance. Other possible careers include medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, meteorology, weather forecasting and teaching. The statistics module also provides a good grounding for careers in physical or social sciences.

Is Maths right for me?

The two best people to answer the question are yourself and your maths teacher! If you are confident in your own mathematical abilities and enjoy the subject, you should definitely consider Maths A-Level. There will be plenty of opportunities to develop competence in algebra and you will be introduced to new concepts such as calculus and logarithms. You will also continue studying trigonometry and methods of proof. The mechanics module is a perfect accompaniment to Physics A-Level and the statistics module will help you understand methods used in social sciences such as psychology and sociology.

Why Maths at Baysgarth Sixth Form?

Maths A-Level is taught by a specialist team of well qualified, dedicated mathematicians. Groups usually have two teachers who share the teaching of the three modules. Class sizes are small; closer to 13 than 30! This allows for extremely strong relationships to be built between teachers and students. You will receive all the extra support you need, with extra sessions available in Year 12 to help students become more confident with algebraic manipulation and sessions targeting specialist exam help closer to exam times. With small groups, teaching is easily tailored to individual student needs. Speak to your maths teacher for more information, or better still; ask some of our current sixth formers! We have an excellent record, with 100% pass rate at AS Level Maths and 88% pass rate at AS Level Further Maths in 2010.

Is Further Maths really hard?

If you feel that maths is a particularly strong subject for you, and you are taking A Level Maths, then Further Maths will develop your interests and skill...FURTHER!! The main point is FURTHER MATHS is MORE MATHS rather than HARDER MATHS!

At AS level, Further Maths is a useful support to AS Maths (particularly for weaker students) and some of the modules can be used to improve the overall grade of Maths at AS or A2.

This course will appeal to students who have a real enthusiasm for Maths, enjoy problem solving and are keen to explore the subject from the theoretical aspects to the more abstract.

What can I do with a Further Maths A-Level?

If you are considering a University course that will have a Maths, Physics or Engineering core, then Further Maths will stand you in good stead for your university application. Many universities prefer students to have at least AS Level Further Maths in order to study a Maths degree.

Where can I go for more information?

If you are interested in Maths or Further Maths A-Level, speak to your maths teacher!