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Further Mathematics

This course is an additional A Level in Mathematics, expanding upon the many areas of study met in A Level Mathematics as well as introducing new and exciting topics. A genuine love of maths and an enquiring mind are essential if you wish to study this course. You must be confident with the algebra studied at higher level GCSE and show an enthusiasm to embrace the challenges that A Level Further Mathematics provides.

Subject content

The content of A Level Further Mathematics splits into two strands: Compulsory (Core) Pure Maths and Further Applied Maths.

50%: Core Pure Mathematics builds on the knowledge and understanding of algebra and extends the content introduced in A Level Mathematics. You will meet new topics such as complex numbers, matrices, proof, hyperbolic functions, polar coordinates and further calculus.

50%: Further Applied Maths options will be chosen depending on the strengths of the group. Options are available in Additional Pure Maths, Statistics and Mechanics as well as a relatively modern branch of Maths known as Decision Mathematics. This uses algorithms to solve a range of problems involving networks and is particularly useful in science, computing, business and industry.

This course is an award of EDEXCEL. Visit the EDEXCEL website to read the course specification.

Specific entry requirements

You must have a minimum of Grade 8 in GCSE Maths.

Since A Level Further Mathematics is a second A Level in Maths, you must also be studying A Level Mathematics alongside this course. A Level (or AS Level) Further Mathematics can only be taken as a fourth A Level course to complement the three main subject choices.

Learning methods

You will deepen your understanding of Maths by discussion and group work as well as independent research and practical work.

Assessment

This course is unique in that it can be studied as either an AS Level qualification or full A Level. This allows students who perform well in Year 12 Mathematics to pick up AS Further Mathematics in Year 13. This is a real advantage, especially if you are looking at studying Maths at university.

For AS Level there are two exams: Core Pure Maths and Further Applied Maths. All candidates will sit these exams at the end of the first year to assess their suitability to progress onto the A Level course.

For A Level there are four exams: two Core Pure papers and two Further Applied papers. The content from both years of study are examined in these papers.

Progression opportunities

A Level Further Mathematics is a highly regarded and prestigious qualification. Many Higher Education programmes in maths, physics and engineering now ask specifically for Further Mathematics to at least AS Level.

Graduates go on to have a range of careers in areas such as actuarial science, quantitative finance and risk management, aerospace engineering, biomathematics and cryptology.

Meet the A Level expert

Lesley Thorpe

Lesley graduated from The University of Leeds with a BSc in Maths and completed her PGCE in 2003. She has taught all levels of Maths in Sixth Form colleges.

Lesley said: “If you aren’t enjoying Maths, you aren’t doing it properly. There is an enjoyment and satisfaction in being able to solve complex problems using logical mathematical techniques that applies to all aspects of life – whichever pathway your career takes you in the future.”

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