Mathematics
Mr I White – iwhite@sackvilleschool.org.uk
Mathematics is about the logical study of pattern in shape and number. In a complex world, professionals, managers, researchers etc. need to have analytical minds to solve difficult problems. Mathematics is the tool that allows this. Competence in mathematics is highly regarded and valued in industry and commerce. Graduates in all subjects average 10% extra pay within 5 years if they have A level mathematics, in comparison with those who do not. There is no coursework element in the A2 mathematics course. There are also no specific synoptic papers in mathematics.
Mathematics is the most popular A Level subject in the UK (2021), and no wonder: It offers a stimulating and challenging course, developing key employability skills such as problem-solving, logical reasoning, communication and resilience.
Students will build on the skills and knowledge gained from Mathematics GCSE, increasing their understanding of mathematical techniques and their applications.
Mathematics provides excellent preparation for a wide range of university courses and careers, as well as supporting the study of other A-Levels, especially those in the Sciences and Social Sciences.
Pure Mathematics
- Proof
- Algebra and functions
- Coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane
- Sequences and series
- Trigonometry
- Exponentials and logarithms
- Differentiation
- Integration
- Numerical methods
- Vectors
Applied Mathematics – Statistics and Mechanics
Statistics:
- Statistical sampling
- Data presentation and interpretation
- Probability
- Statistical distributions
- Statistical hypothesis testing
Mechanics:
- Quantities and units in mechanics
- Kinematics
- Forces and Newton’s laws
- Moments
Paper 1: Pure Mathematics (2 hours) 33.3% of qualification
Paper 2: Pure Mathematics (2 hours) 33.3% of qualification
Paper 3: Mechanics & Statistics (2 hours) 33.3% of qualification
“Doing facilitating subject, particularly maths, may be a sensible choice of A-Level for those aspiring to a high-ranking university, even if the content is not required for the intended course.”
Catherine Dilnot, Institute of Education, 2017
Students intending to study mathematics at degree level should consider taking Further Mathematics at AS or A Level.
What degree courses could this lead to?
- Mathematics (essential)
- Engineering (essential)
- Sciences
- Computer Science
- Medicine
- Business / Finance
- Social Sciences
What careers could this course lead to?
- Engineer
- Accountant
- Data analyst
- Actuary
- Statistician
- Scientist
- Architect
- Software engineer
