A-LEVEL Maths

MATHEMATICS - A LEVEL

INDUCTION

The entry requirement for all A or A/S-level courses in Mathematics is a grade B at GCSE Higher tier. (Discussion is required if your grade is at Intermediate Level). If a student wishes to take double Mathematics, then additionally a good attempt at the Year 11 P1 course is required after passing GCSE in Year 10. After an initial introductory session to course structure, teaching/learning methods and assessment, students are encouraged to "fill in any gaps" in their background knowledge through additional worksheets, which in some cases can be started prior to the start of the course. All staff within the department are available to help with this process and students should consult their tutors when in difficulties and begin to develop a more two-way approach to learning.

ü	SYLLABI
	The Mathematics options at A-level are contained within the new scheme of modular syllabi of the University of London. There are 10 modules; 4 in Pure Maths, 4 in Mechanics and 2 in Statistics. 4 of these (specified below) lead to an A-level, 2 to an A/S.
	Two A-level Mathematics: Mathematics 9371(Pure with Mechanics) after 1 year's study - modules P1,P2,M1 & M2/T1 + Further Mathematics 9374 in Year 13 - modules P3,P4,M2 & M1 according to staffing constraints. This is an intensive course designed for the most able mathematicians and in both years requires the ability to work at pace.
	One A-level Mathematics: Either Mathematics 9371, as above over 2 years, or Mathematics 9373 (Pure with Statistics). The Pure with Mechanics course is primarily for those students who will take a science combination of A-levels including Physics; the Mechanics modules being a study of the mathematical processes of Statics and Dynamics.
	The Pure with Statistics course - modules P1,P2,T1 & T2 - is primarily for Arts based students, not taking Physics, but studying for instance Economics, Geography, Computing, Biology. The T2 Statistics modules requires a project.
	A/S Mathematics: Mainly, either P1 & M1 or P1 & T1. These are possible within the A-level groups, but see under "Assessment"

SKILLS REQUIRED

Above all A-level Mathematics requires perseverance and the ability to adapt examples to solve problems. In addition, students should read round the subject by studying the textbooks, which will include numerous back-up examples and consult staff at every opportunity to discuss problems. Spending time reading and re-reading notes and so developing a full understanding of the material is vital in acquiring the confidence to solve new problems

METHODS OF ASSESSMENT

Students will be tested internally at regular intervals to chart progress towards the A-level. Each module will eventually be examined externally by means of a 1½ hour paper. For the 2-year A-Level candidates, entry to some modules may take place in January of Year 13 in June. It is at this stage that students, with guidance, may opt for an A/S-level. For the 1-year A-levels, the relevant modules are examined at the end of each year, with subsequent resits possible in Mathematics(9371) in January and June of Year 13.

CAREER IMPLICATIONS

Mathematics is a fundamental requirement for Science/Engineering degree courses and a useful addition(in the Pure with Statistics form) to many Arts courses, besides being a complete study in itself. A-level Mathematics provides the student with the skills needed in any career requiring logical and analytical thought and is highly regarded by Universities for courses in e.g. Economics, Computing, Law etc. Mathematics provides a challenge and demands perseverance. It can be enjoying and satisfying in solving problems.