Mathematics

Why study Mathematics?

Mathematics is a mixture of ideas, problem solving and the application of numerical skills. Brain training and the development of logical thinking and organisation are at its core, so it complements many other courses. The academic rigour and skills that are developed are desirable in any career. Our teachers are fully committed to providing a broad mathematical education and our ‘open-door’ policy for providing support is extremely popular.

Course content

The A Level Mathematics course provides a study of mathematics in three main areas: Pure Mathematics (algebra and functions, proof, coordinate geometry, calculus and trigonometry); Statistics, and Mechanics. The course includes the use of technology to analyse large data sets. It enables pupils to develop mathematical knowledge, problem solving, mathematical reasoning and modelling skills.

Will I enjoy it?

Pupils who enjoy a challenge, who have found the Mathematics studied so far both interesting and relatively quick to pick up, and who find satisfaction in working on a problem from different angles without getting frustrated, will enjoy this A Level. It is hard work and pupils should expect to make mistakes or feel stuck at times. But the most satisfying thing about Mathematics at A Level is the pursuit of the right method, spotting the links between the topics, and the profound sense of accomplishment from making a breakthrough.

What else should I consider?

Mathematics is the language of most sciences and trains pupils to be logical problem solvers, with skills that are highly valued by both universities and employers. It is a requirement for a large variety of Science or Economics-based courses at university, and it is listed as desirable for a significant number more. While Mathematics is rightly seen as a challenging course at A Level, pupils achieving at least a grade 8 at GCSE or IGCSE, with a real interest in the subject, have every opportunity to attain the highest grades.

A Level Further Mathematics

We provide an option to study both Mathematics and Further Mathematics. This counts as two A Levels (Further Mathematics cannot be studied alone). The Further Mathematics course includes compulsory Core Mathematics modules (Complex Numbers, Differential Equations, Proof, Matrices, Vectors, Coordinate Systems and Series) and there are two options that are chosen in line with the interests and aptitude of the students. These are selected from Further Pure 1 and Further Pure 2, Further Statistics, Further Mechanics and Decision.

Assessment

Examination board: Edexcel

100% Examination, assessed at the end of the course.

A Level Mathematics: three exams, each 2 hours with equal weighting: two Pure Papers and one combined Statistics and Mechanics.

A Level Further Mathematics: four exams, each 1 hour 30 minutes with equal weighting: two Core Papers and two options papers

Who can give me more information? Dr Collins

g.collins@sherborne.com