Mathematics (Further)
Mathematics is the language of science, and related to almost every aspect of our daily
lives: from stocks and shares to traffic flow to creating lift on an aeroplane wing. Without
the logic, structure and precision of mathematics our understanding of the world in which
we live would be vastly and unrecognizably diminished (image a world with no computing,
economics or communications technology).
A-level Mathematics and Further Mathematics
aim to provide the necessary framework for creating an in-depth understanding of the
subject. Not only will you learn the language and structure of mathematics but you will
learn to create logical, step by step, arguments and watertight proofs. You will also develop
the ability to work through problems with care and accuracy, skills so transferable to the
business world that A-level Mathematics has the deserved reputation for being the subject
that employers (and universities) covet the most.
Mathematics – AS – edexcel 8371
AS consists of three modules. There are two pure modules C1 and C2 (mainly consisting
of algebra, trigonometry, functions and calculus), as well as one applied (consisting of
statistics S1, or mechanics M1). The exams are all equally weighted with an average mark
of about eighty percent sufficient for an A grade. Grade B or above at GCSE or equivalent
would be considered sufficient for entry to the course, although students who sat the
intermediate paper would expect the first few weeks to be more difficult.
Mathematics – A2 – edexcel 9371
A2 mathematics consists of two more pure modules C3 and C4 (extending the concepts
introduced in AS) and one more applied (usually the statistics or mechanics module not
done at AS). There is a noticeable jump in difficulty between AS and A2, with students on a
B or below at AS generally finding the transition difficult.
Further Mathematics – AS – edexcel 8372
Further Mathematics extends the concepts introduced in Mathematics. There are three
further pure modules FP1-3 (consisting of advanced calculus, complex numbers, matrices,
proof, series and numerical solutions) and three applied (usually further statistics S2,
further mechanics M2 and decision mathematics D1). There is sometimes scope for
students to be more selective, potential economists may wish to do more statistics,
engineers more mechanics etc, but this depends on teaching availability at the time.
Normally students would expect to take FP1, S2 and D1 to make up their AS.
Further Mathematics – A2 – edexcel 9372
Most students would expect to study FP2, FP3, and M2, although this obviously depends
on modules taken at AS (and during their normal maths). There is often room here for
much greater flexibility than previously with some students wishing to pursue more
mechanics (M3,M4) statistics (S3,S4) or decision mathematics (D2)
Note – the full specification is available online at
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce08/maths
Reading list.
Although there are no compulsory books for students sitting this course, many students
find the individual modular textbooks (Edexcel AS and A Level Modular Mathematics)
useful as support material. They are all available at good book shops, or
www.heinemann.co.uk
Mathematics is, without question, one of the most important, challenging and rewarding
subjects available for study at A-level. The skills provided during the study of Mathematics
will be crucial to the success of our future doctors, engineers, architects, chemists,
economists, computer programmers, psychologists, accountants, managers, and many,
many more.