Mathematics

A minimum grade of a 6 at GCSE Mathematics

AS

Core 1 – Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane; sequences and series; differentiation; integration.

Core 2 - Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane; sequences and series; trigonometry; exponentials and logarithms; differentiation; integration.

Statistics 1 – mathematical models in probability and statistics; representation and summary of data; probability, correlation and regression; discrete random variables; discrete distributions; the Normal distribution.

A2

Core 3 – Algebra and functions; trigonometry; exponentials and logarithms; differentiation; numerical methods.

Core 4 – Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane; sequences and series; differentiation; integration; vectors.

Mechanics 1 – Mathematical models in mechanics; vectors in mechanics; kinematics of a particle moving in a straight line; dynamics of a particle moving in a straight line or plane; statics of a particle; moments.

In both Year 12 and 13 you will sit 3 papers, all equally weighted. The papers are 1½ hours long and all papers have a total of 75 marks. C1 is the only non-calculator paper.

At Samuel Ryder Academy, you have maths teachers with excellent subject knowledge and a real passion for their subject.  You will be taught in small class sizes that allow you more time to seek guidance and support. 

A-Level Mathematics is a basic entry requirement for any University course in the fields of Science, Engineering and Economics. Even if you are not planning to follow such a course, an A-Level in Mathematics is very well regarded by Universities and employees as the skills that are developed through studying the subject are highly valued and sought after.

Mathematical training disciplines the mind, develops logical and critical reasoning and develops analytical and problem solving skills to a high degree. The skills acquired by studying Mathematics will also be of benefit to other A-Level subjects; the rigour and clarity of thought which is developed are skills much in demand amongst employers.

Mathematics is a challenging subject and for this reason, it should be noted that A-Level maths is a step up from what you have been used to at GCSE. You are expected to keep up to date with all work, attend the weekly A-Level Maths Clinic to clear up any misconceptions you may have or anything you are unsure about and you are expected to put in the hours at home. However long your maths lessons are per week, double that length of time and that is how long you are expected to work independently.

An A-level in maths will impress both prospective employers and university admission tutors. It shows you can think logically, accurately process information, and skilfully manipulate numbers.

Some degree subjects like physics and engineering ask for a maths A-level as part of the entry requirements. Others such as medicine and architecture don’t make it a necessity, but they still have a considerable amount of mathematical content. If you go in with a maths A-level, you’ll have a much easier time than those who don’t.

The modern world needs mathematicians. Maths and science are required for the continued development of our increasingly technological lives. The UK needs more mathematical skills for the financial, communication and transportation sectors.

You might be close to finishing your secondary education, but there are thousands of 11-year-olds just starting each year. They need someone to teach them maths, and it could be you. After completing a maths degree you can go on to train as a teacher and government incentives mean that maths teachers are generally paid more than any of their colleagues.

It’s not just maths teachers that earn more – a maths degree is a great investment, whatever career you choose. On average, a graduate of any degree can expect to earn around £129,000 more in their lifetime compared to a person leaving education with two A-levels. For maths and computing graduates this figure rises to over £220,000!

Employers look for hard-working, self-motivated, and intelligent people to join their staff. Obtaining a maths A-level shows that you have what it takes. You may not use algebra or probability in your job every day, but the transferable skills of analysis, logic, and problem solving will always come in handy.

An application form can be obtained from the Head of Sixth From h.potter@samuelryderacademy.co.uk. Once your application has been processed you will be invited to discuss your subject choices with the Head of Sixth Form.