Mathematics

Why study A Level Mathematics?

Mathematics provides the foundations for everything we use in our lives on a daily basis. From using prime numbers for securing financial transactions on the internet to the logistical complications of timetabling our train networks to the mathematics of 4D ultrasound scans during pregnancy. As well as being a challenging and enjoyable study in its own right, having a sound knowledge of mathematical principles and techniques and an awareness of the vast range of possible applications will provide you with the confidence to deal with the mathematical elements of your chosen course of study at A Level and beyond.

How will I be assessed?

Mathematics is assessed purely by examination and there will be three 2 hour papers to be taken at the end of the course. Two Pure and one Applied Paper.

The papers will assess students’ knowledge and application on both Pure and Applied Maths in the following proportions:

• Pure Maths - 67%
• Statistics and Mechanics - 33% combined

Students will be assessed on their ability to use and apply skills (50% of marks), ability to reason, interpret and communicate mathematically (25%) and problem solving and modelling (25%).

entry requirements

The course is very demanding and requires participants to have a strong natural understanding and enjoyment of Mathematics. It is therefore required that you have a minimum of Grade 7 in Mathematics at GCSE level.

What skills will I gain from studying Mathematics?

Employers love mathematics graduates! Mathematicians are, of course, highly numerate. You will learn to think clearly and logically, to analyse situations and to organise. You will have developed very special skills which you can use in devising solutions to complex problems in a range of situations.

Where can Mathematics lead?

Where to start? The list of possible careers for Mathematicians is endless; what follows are just a few possible suggestions. Perhaps in combustion phenomena for an oil company, in weather forecasting, in stock control for a large national retail company, in the statistical analysis of field trials for a drug company. Maybe computer modelling or software development, financial services such as banking, accountancy or actuarial. Or how about engineering, risk management, product design and development, marketing or a statistician. The versatility of mathematics students makes them highly sought after by employers. Career prospects for mathematics students are therefore excellent.

Staff

The following members of staff form the Maths department at King Edwards: