Mathamatics ASA Level
| Mathamatics |
What is this course about?
This is the Double Mathematics course for those who wish to join the ‘Able Mathematicians Programme’ and study Maths in more depth or just study more areas of Mathematics. It is particularly useful if you are interested in continuing your study of the subject to degree level in a mathematically allied discipline.
The aims of this course are to help you to develop your understanding of mathematical principles. You will extend your range of mathematical skills and techniques and use them to solve problems. You will acquire the foundation necessary for further study of mathematics and other disciplines, and develop the ability to recognise real-life situations that can be modelled mathematically. Also you will gain the appropriate knowledge of procedures to be followed in order to produce useful results and develop confidence and enthusiasm in your approach to the subject |
What topics will I study?
AS units (first year work)
| Unit 1: Decision |
| This applied part of the course involves networks and shortest path, algorithms and linear programming. It is for able students wishing to extend their study of the various branches of Maths into studying the applications of mathematical methods to business studies, computing, economics, management and problem solving. |
| Unit 2: Further Pure Mathematics |
This pure part of the course involves the study of complex numbers, where imaginary numbers are encountered, matrices and series work. These are the more advanced areas of Maths included in the first year extension to Pure Math’s for the Able Mathematicians
The choice between the next two units is to complement you main Mathematics course and if it is possible to timetable another mathematical application module then an AS Further Math’s could be obtained in one year.
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| Unit 3: Statistics |
This applied part of the course involves study of data, its analysis and the conclusions that can be drawn from it. It is particularly suitable for students studying Biology, Psychology, Geography or Business subjects.
Or Mechanics
This applied part of the course involves theoretical study of motion and forces and applies many of the pure concepts to physical situations. It is particularly suitable for students studying Physics.
There are many other possible units which can be studied in year 13. These units will be tailored to the individual requirements of each student whenever possible. |
| How will my work be assessed? |
On the ‘Able Mathematicians Programme’ you will be expected to take, in addition to your 3 AS Mathematics examinations, a further 2 or 3 unit examinations. It is anticipated that you will take the Decision examination in January and the Further Pure examination in the first summer term together with your other application exam if this has been studied in the first year.
In year two, you will be advised as to suitable combinations of units to make a total of 9 units for A level Mathematics + AS level Further Mathematics, or 12 units for A level Mathematics + Further A level Mathematics. The timing for sitting units will be discussed with you on an individual basis.
There is no compulsory coursework element attached to any of the units. |
| Frequently asked questions |
What are lessons like?
This course is designed to ensure a smooth transition from GCSE Mathematics. It introduces topics in an accessible, relevant and enjoyable way and stimulates a keen interest into more advanced mathematical topics. Teaching will be challenging and will encourage individual learning of Mathematics. You will, as part of the ‘Able Mathematician Programme’, be encouraged to back up lessons with further mathematics private study and use a graphical calculator as a matter of course.
Students are encouraged to enter the Leeds Maths Challenges and also to attend various talks and conferences during the year.
What do people do with A level Mathematics?
Further Mathematics A level is a valuable qualification in many Higher Education courses including degrees in Mathematics, the Sciences, Engineering, Finance and Computer Science. It is the ‘gold standard’ A level Mathematics and is a highly desirable qualification. Not only is it a sound basis for almost any career, it is the ideal qualification for students hoping to study for a degree in mathematics at one of the top universities in the country.
Are there any special entry requirements?
Normal college entry requirements for Level 3 courses. You should have an A or A* at GCSE and should take Mathematics with Mechanics or Mathematics with Statistics at AS and A2. |
| AS/A Level Courses |
A Level is split into two parts: AS and A2
AS is the first year of the A level course and the standard expected is between GCSE (grades A* - C) and an A2 course.
A2 is taken in the second year and builds upon AS level work.
Together AS and A2 make up a full A level: AS + A2 = A level.
AS and A2 courses are usually made up of three units each. AS units are taken during the first year of the course and A2 units in the second year. Unit examinations can be taken in January and in June but subjects vary in when exams are taken. Often one unit takes the form of coursework. It is possible to re-sit AS and A2 units, the best marks count towards the final AS or A level grade.
AS and A level qualifications are graded A – E (pass) and U (fail).
AS and A2 also provide opportunities to develop key skills
You may choose to take an AS course and then continue to the full A level or to take the AS course as a stand-alone qualification. Progression from AS to A2 is dependant upon a pass at AS and a recommendation from your subject tutor that you have developed the necessary skills for the A2 course. |

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