Backwell School Sixth Form Course Guide

Further Mathematics (A Level, AQA)

The Further Mathematics course is aimed at those people who want a mathematically challenging experience! Conceptually demanding, but very enjoyable and rewarding, the course is excellent preparation for the study of Mathematics at university (or a Mathematics-related subject). Further Maths A level is always taken alongside A level Maths and there is a significant overlap between the contents of the two A levels. Entry Requirements:

AS Level Further Mathematics (1 year course): GCSE grade 7 in Maths A Level Further Mathematics (2 year course): GCSE grade 8 in Maths Course Content

Exam

% When?

Content

Paper 1: Pure (2 hours) Paper 2: Pure (2 hours)

33% June of Year 13 33% June of Year 13 33% June of Year 13

Contains Pure Mathematics topics, and includes further work on algebra, polar coordinates, complex numbers, matrices and hyperbolic functions.

The same content as Paper 1

Paper 3: Applied (2 hours) This question paper will cover two of the applied units from: • Mechanics • Discrete Maths • Statistics Decisions on which applied topics to be studied will be made during the course. Students taking Further Mathematics as an AS qualification only would complete the following exams at the end of Year 12:

AS Exams

% When?

Content

Paper 1: Pure (90 minutes)

50% June of Year 12 50% June of Year 12

Contains Pure Mathematics topics including complex numbers, further calculus, polar coordinates, hyperbolic functions and further algebra and functions. This question paper will cover two of the applied units from: • Mechanics • Discrete Maths • Statistics Decisions on which applied topics to be studied will be made during the course.

Paper 2: (90 minutes)

Costs associated with this course Claswiz calculator fx-991CW at £20 and an online textbook at a cost of approximately £10. Career Links

An A level in Further Mathematics is very highly regarded by employees and universities alike, not necessarily for the content of the Further Maths course but rather the ability to demonstrate excellent problem solving and analytical skills at a very high level. An A level in Further Maths certainly makes you stand out from the crowd academically. This A level qualification is ideal preparation for further mathematical or scientific study at university level. For more information please contact Mrs Manson or Miss Morris.

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