AS/A Level Mathematics
Awarding Body: Edexcel
AS and A Level Mathematics
AS: 1 Year
A Level: 2 Years
Course Codes: MATS*, MAT2*
Is this the right course for me?
This subject is offered as part of the Full-Time A Level Programme. Please refer to the Full-Time A Level Course information sheet for further details.
This course is intended to develop a variety of mathematical skills in modelling, logical reasoning, problem solving and graphical communication. It will enable students to apply mathematics and recognise its significance to other disciplines. It will provide students with a foundation for the further study of mathematics.
What do I need to join the course?
Standard programme entry requirements, as per the Full-Time A Level Course Information Sheet, plus a grade B at higher level GCSE Mathematics or equivalent. Students who do not have this mathematics qualification will need to discuss their entry on to the course with the Mathematics tutors and will be required to successfully complete an algebra assignment in order to be accepted.
What does the course involve?
The course follows the Edexcel AS and A Level Mathematics Specifications.
For the AS course you will study two pure mathematics modules: Core Mathematics 1 and Core mathematics 2 (C1 and C2) and an applications module: Statistics 1 (S1)
Core Mathematics 1 (C1) consists of: algebra and functions; coordinate geometry in the (x,y) plane; sequences and series; differentiation; integration.·
Core Mathematics 2 (C2) consists of: algebra and functions; coordinate geometry in the (X,Y) plane; sequences and series; trigonometry; exponential and logarithms; differentiation; integration.·
Statistics 1 (S1) consists of: mathematical models in probability and statistics; representations and summary of data; probability; correlation and regression; discrete random variables; discrete distributions; the Normal distribution.·
You will experience a variety of teaching and learning styles. You will work both individually and in groups. You will carry out investigations and group work as well as the more traditional individual exercises. You will have access to graph plotting software.
What about further study after the AS?
The AS course in mathematics is self-contained, but leads on to a second year of study (the A2 year). Module results in the AS and the A2 are combined to provide an ‘A’ level award after two years. To progress to A2 you will need to have the standard entry requirements for AS level, plus at least a grade D in your AS Mathematics. Students with AS at grade E will be considered on the basis of their capacity to make further progress as shown by attendance and work records and other evidence.
For the A2 course in mathematics you will study two further pure mathematics modules: Core Mathematics 3 and Core Mathematics 4 (C3 and C4) and one further applications module.
Core Mathematics 3 (C3) consists of: algebra and functions; trigonometry; exponentials and logarithms; differentiation; numerical methods. ·
Core Mathematics 4 (C4) consists of: algebra; coordinate geometry in the (x,y) plane; series; differentiation; integration: vectors.·
During the latter part of the summer term in year one, once assessment of the AS modules is complete, subject tutors will spend time briefing you on the work required for successful completion of the A2 course in year two.
How will I be assessed?
All modules in AS and A2 courses are assessed externally. It is possible to resit modules if necessary.
Additional Costs:
A textbook is required for each of the modules you will study. They are in the Heinnemann Modular Mathematics for Edexcel AS and A-Level series (new editions for the 2004 specifications).
A scientific calculator is essential and a graphical calculator is recommended for some of the modules (C2,C3,C4)
How do I apply?
Please refer to the Full-Time A Level Programme information sheet.
Should you require this Course Information Sheet in a different format, for example in a larger font or electronically, please contact the Information Team on (01473) 382211. They will be happy to help.
This Information Sheet is for promotional purposes only and is not intended to form part of the agreement between the College and students.
The information contained within this Information Sheet is correct at July 2008.