Mathematics IGCSE (Edexcel International Syllabus 4MA1)

The IGCSE Mathematics course includes the following areas of learning:

1) Numbers and the Number System

2) Equations, Formulae and Identities

3) Sequences, Functions and Graphs

4) Geometry and Trigonometry

5) Vectors and Transformation Geometry

6) Statistics and Probability

The following topics are included: integers, decimals, percentages, sets, standard form, estimation, limits of accuracy, ratio and proportion, calculator skills, measures, financial mathematics, graphs in practical situations, graphs of functions, algebraic representation and formulae, algebraic manipulation, functions, indices, solutions of equations and inequalities, linear programming, geometrical relationships, geometrical constructions, symmetry, angle properties, mensuration, trigonometry, statistics, probability, vectors in two dimensions, transformations and differential calculus.

Aims

By the end of the course, students should have developed their mathematical knowledge and skills in a way which encourages confidence and provides satisfaction and enjoyment. They should be able to apply mathematics in everyday situations, develop an understanding of the part which mathematics plays in the world around them, solve problems, present the solutions clearly, check and interpret the results and develop an understanding of mathematical principles. They should also be able to apply mathematics in other subjects, particularly science and technology, and appreciate patterns and relationships in mathematics. They should also develop the abilities to reason logically, to generalise and to prove.

Assessment

There are two levels available for study: Foundation and Higher. For the Foundation Curriculum the grades available are from 1 to 5. For the Higher Curriculum the grades available are from 4 to 9. Where there are two Mathematics classes, the majority of students in both classes follow the Higher Curriculum. Students sit two written examination papers at the end of Year 11. For the most able students, there is the opportunity to complete the IGCSE Mathematics course through an accelerated route, and take the IGCSE Mathematics examinations at the end of Year 10.

Each paper lasts two hours, and each is worth 50% of the final mark. Calculators are allowed for both papers.

Every students requires a scientific calculator as well as a ruler, a pair of compasses and a protractor. Our recommended scientific calculator is the Casio FX-991 ES Plus Second Edition.