Further Mathematics A level

A LEVEL AND LEVEL 3 QUALIFICATIONS

To gain a place in the Sixth Form, all students must achieve Grade 4 or higher in either English Language or Literature, and Mathematics, plus at least three additional GCSEs (or Level 2 equivalent qualifications) at Grade 5 or above.

In addition to the general entry requirements above, some subjects also have additional entry requirements.

All students are to choose 3 subjects from 3 different blocks. Further Mathematics may be taken as a fourth choice.

LEVEL 2 HAIRDRESSING

Subject has individual entry requirements.

Students can only apply for either Level 3 courses or Hairdressing.

FURTHER MATHEMATICS - (PLEASE NOTE: YOU MUST ALSO APPLY FOR MATHEMATICS)

Further Mathematics at A level is a course worth studying in its own right. It is challenging but interesting. It builds on work you will meet during A Level Mathematics, but also involves new ideas. A worthwhile course if you have a strong interest in Mathematics, or are going on to study Mathematics-related degree courses.

While studying Further Mathematics you will be expected to:

• Use mathematical skills and knowledge to solve problems.
• Solve quite complicated problems by using mathematical arguments and logic. You will also have to understand and demonstrate what is meant by proof in mathematics.
• Simplify real life situations so that you can use mathematics to show what is happening and what might happen in different circumstances.
  
• Use the mathematics that you learn to solve problems that are given to you in a real-life context.
  
• Use calculator technology and other resources (such as formulae booklets or statistical tables) effectively and appropriately; understand its limitations and when it is inappropriate to use such technology.
  

Further Mathematics at A level includes more pure mathematics as well as a selection of applied exams students can take:

The majority of assessment will cover the pure elements of further mathematics. When studying pure mathematics you will be extending your knowledge of such topics as trigonometry and calculus as well as introducing new topics like complex numbers and Matrix Algebra. If you enjoyed the challenge of problem solving at GCSE using such mathematical techniques then you should find the prospect of this course very appealing.

Although many of the ideas you will meet in pure mathematics are interesting in their own right, they also serve as an important foundation for other branches of mathematics, especially mechanics and statistics.

Alongside the pure side of the course, you will also study for an applied assessment. These include Mechanics, Statistics and Decision mathematics.

Subject Specific Requirements

Grade 7 in Mathematics, must also be studying A-Level Mathematics.

Future Applications

In previous years, students studying Further Mathematics have chosen courses such as:

Mathematics, Medicine, Mechanical, Civil or Electrical Engineering, Aeronautical Design, Systems, Engineering and Biomechanical or Chemical Engineering. All universities running Science Engineering /Design based courses would consider Further Mathematics to be a valuable asset.