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Canon Slade School

Canon Slade School As a Church of England School, we seek to provide
an excellent education within a Christian environment
to fulfil individual potential and to prepare pupils
for life and service in a rapidly changing world. Ora et Labora
Pray and Work

Mathematics - A Level

What does the course aim to do?

  • To understand coherence and progression in mathematics and how different areas of mathematics are connected
  • To apply mathematics in other fields of study and be aware of the relevance of mathematics to the world of work and to situations in society in general
  • To use their mathematical knowledge to make logical and reasoned decisions in solving problems both within pure mathematics and in a variety of contexts, and communicate the mathematical rationale for these decisions clearly
  • To reason logically and recognise incorrect reasoning
  • To generalise mathematically
  • To construct mathematical proofs
  • To use mathematical skills and techniques to solve challenging problems which require decisions on the solution strategy
  • To recognise when mathematics can be used to analyse and solve a problem in context
  • To represent situations mathematically and understand the relationship between problems in context and mathematical models that may be applied to solve them
  • To draw diagrams and sketch graphs to help explore mathematical situations and interpret solutions
  • To make deductions and inferences and draw conclusions by using mathematical reasoning
  • To interpret solutions and communicate their interpretation effectively in the context of the problem
  • To read and comprehend mathematical arguments, including justifications of methods and formulae, and communicate understanding
  • To use technology such as calculators and computers effectively and recognise when such use may be inappropriate

This course is particularly relevant for those students interested in or studying A-level Biology, Economics and Business, Geography, Geology, Physics and Psychology.

What will I be studying?

The content is listed below, under four areas:

  1. Mathematical processes consisting of mathematical argument and language, problem solving and mathematical modelling
  2. Pure mathematics includes proof, algebra, graphs, sequences, trigonometry, logarithms, calculus and vectors
  3. Mechanics includes kinematics, motion under gravity, working with forces including friction, Newton’s laws and simple moments
  4. Statistics includes working with data from a sample to make inferences about a population, probability calculations, using binomial and Normal distributions as models and statistical hypothesis testing.

How will I be assessed?

The exam board that we follow is MEI. At the end of the two years you will complete three papers as follows:

  • Pure mathematics and mechanics
  • Pure mathematics and statistics
  • Pure mathematics and comprehension

Am I suited to this subject?

You should demonstrate the ability to acquire, appreciate and apply mathematical concepts and techniques; select appropriate mathematical models in the solution of problems; interpret, check and discuss results; make deductions and inferences; develop a disciplined and enquiring mind.

Where will it lead in the future?

Mathematics degrees are open to those who have taken only a single A Level in Maths, but the more prestigious universities still expect a good result in Further Maths. Some also insist on extra papers, especially STEP. Maths can be studied jointly with a wide variety of subjects at degree level and is also essential for Engineering courses, required for many Science degrees and often desirable for Accountancy or Business related degrees. Maths is a very widely accepted indicator of ability in higher education as well as for those who are contemplating direct entry to careers, especially in any financial area.

How will I study?

You will be involved in the development of concepts and techniques by investigation and discussion and their application in solving problems. When a principle has been introduced you will complete worked examples in class and your progress will be monitored by performance in homework, assignments and tests.

What will I need to do myself?

Written assignments are given on each topic. In addition you are expected to use text books and notes to provide further support and practice exercises. A minimum of 5-6 hours private study and homework per week is expected.

Why should I come to Canon Slade to study Mathematics?

We are an experienced, well-qualified and enthusiastic team who are passionate about our subject. We encourage and motivate pupils to achieve their full potential offering support and advice as required. Lessons take place in classroom settings with access to text books, past papers and on-line resources.