Lower 6th Form Curriculum| Syllabus Followed: | Edexcel - 8371 |
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| Entry Requirements: | Grade A in GCSE Mathematics at Higher Tier |
Mathematics is the tool of the Engineer, Physicist and Chemist it is true but it is far more accessible than most think and is most often a subject that might be studied for intrinsic interest. It may therefore be your main subject, it may support your other A Level subjects, or it may provide a contrast to, say, English or Modern Languages. There is a considerable amount of algebra in all branches of the subject, so you will need to be quick and confident in algebraic techniques. You will also need to be able to grasp new and unfamiliar concepts quickly, and to be analytical, thorough, organised and self- motivated. If you think you have these qualities and have a flair for and interest in the subject, then it is very likely you will enjoy the course and be successful in it.
The jump from GCSE to A Level Mathematics is much larger than you would expect. Even if you are mastering GCSE level and you enjoy Mathematics, it does not necessarily mean that you will cope at AS level or be successful at it. You must gain an A* or A at GCSE. The Director of Studies, in consultation with the Head of Mathematics, will consider those who do not achieve this standard on an individual basis.
There are currently 18 units available in the Modular Syllabus: 7 in Pure Mathematics, 5 in Mechanics, 4 in Statistics and two in Decision Mathematics. Later units in each branch assume knowledge of preceding ones. An A level requires passes in six units; an AS level requires passes in three units. Each unit is examined by a 90 minute written paper.
The teaching time is divided equally between two teachers. The main topics are:
In the Lower Sixth two Core Mathematics units and one Mechanics unit are taught.
This is a stimulating and challenging course that involves the study of a second A level over the course of 2 years. Two AS levels are studied in the Lower Sixth, covering Core Mathematics modules 1 and 2 and Mechanics module 1 in AS Mathematics and the first Further Pure module along with two additional Mechanics modules to make up an AS in Further Mathematics. Two more Core Mathematics and Further Pure modules are studied in the Upper Sixth along with two Statistics modules so as to complete two A levels, in Mathematics and Further Mathematics, by the end of the course.
Further Mathematics is only meant to be tackled by the ablest mathematicians and should only be considered if you are to achieve A* at GCSE. The aims of the course are to extend your ability to develop and test mathematical theories, to develop an enquiring approach to mathematical problems and to gain a deeper understanding of the theory lying behind AS/A level mathematics. In addition to studying the AS/A level topics in greater depth, additional topics such as Complex Numbers, First and Second Order Differential Equations, Polar Coordinates, Hyperbolic Functions, Motion in a Circle, Statics of Rigid Bodies, Elastic Strings and Springs and Hypothesis Testing in Statistics are covered. The Department has an excellent record of achieving top grades in Further Mathematics and you will put yourself in a strong position as a University candidate.
Because of the demands of the course and the demand for the course from students, consistently high results will be expected throughout the year and especially in January modules if one is to remain on the course.
