MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS
We consider Mathematics as an intellectual adventure and invite students to see it in the same light.
WHY STUDY MATHEMATICS?
Through Mathematics, students develop the ability to think in abstract and the ability to reason and question logically. They will learn to adopt a curious and questioning approach and become more effective thinkers. They will see the benefit in setting out their thoughts in a systematic and logical manner and realise that answers are worthy of credit only when properly justified. Students will learn to self criticise and improve their weaknesses instead of just focusing on their strengths. Students will be encouraged to take up challenges and be flexible in their techniques and methods.
WHAT IS MATHEMATICS AT DLD?
There are three main areas in A level Mathematics:
- Pure Mathematics -Algebra, graphical work, Geometry, Trigonometry and Calculus.
- Statistics – handling and analysis of data, probability distributions, correlation, regression and hypothesis testing. Results need to be interpreted using appropriate language.
- Mechanics – using simple mathematical models to describe a real world situation. Main topics include Kinematics, Dynamics and Statics.
LEARNING MATHEMATICS AT DLD
At DLD, the teachers use evidence-based teaching methods, which are shown by scientific research to help students achieve significantly improved grades. In the maths department, teachers also make frequent use of visual methods and computer animations to make difficult mathematical concepts as simple as possible for students to grasp. This is beneficial for all students, both home-students and students whose first language is not English.
The DLD maths department also offers the opportunity for students to improve their computer programming skills and put their maths to a practical use, by providing optional programming exercises relating to each math topic. This strengthens students’ understanding of A-level mathematics, and sets them up with a useful and employable life-skill too.
HOW IS MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS AT DLD ASSESSED?
Mathematics
The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Mathematics consists of three externally-examined papers. Students must complete all assessments in May/June in any single year.
| Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1 (*Paper code: 9MAO/01) Paper 2: Pure mathematics 2 (*Paper code: 9MAO/02) |
| Each paper is: 2-hour written examination 33.33% of the qualification 100 marks |
Content overview
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Assessment overview
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| Paper 3: Statistics and Mechanics (*Paper code: 9MAO/03) |
| 2-hour written examination 33.33% of the qualification 100 marks |
| Content overview Section A: Statistics
Section B: Mechanics
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Assessment overview
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Further Mathematics
For stronger students wanting to include Further Mathematics as an additional A level qualification, the Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Further Mathematics consists of four externally-examined papers. Students must complete all assessments in May/June of the second year.
| Paper 1: Core Pure Mathematics 1 (*Paper code: 9FM0/01) Paper 2: Core Pure Mathematics 2 (*Paper code: 9FM0/02) |
| Each paper is: 1 hour and 30 minutes written examination 25% of the qualification 75 marks |
| Content overview Proof, Complex numbers, Matrices, Further algebra and functions, Further calculus, Further vectors, Polar coordinates, Hyperbolic functions, Differential equations |
Assessment overview
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| Paper 3: Statistics and Mechanics (*Paper code: 9FM0/3A-3D) |
| 1 hour and 30 minutes written examination 25% of the qualification 75 marks |
| Content overview **Students take oneof the following four options: A: Further Pure Mathematics 1 |
Assessment overview
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| Paper 4: Further Mathematics Option 2 (*Paper code: 9FM0/4A-4G) |
| 1 hour and 30 minutes written examination 25% of the qualification 75 marks |
| Content overview **Students take oneof the following seven options: A: Further Pure Mathematics 2 |
Assessment overview
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WHAT DO I NEED BEFORE MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS AT DLD?
Enthusiasm for the subject, persistence and consistent hard work, interest in problem solving, good algebraic skills, ability to think in abstract, a logical mind, a willingness to work independently while seeking and accepting guidance when necessary. It is also important to have achieved a high grade in GCSE Mathematics (7+ for Mathematics, 8+ for Further Mathematics).
GOOD SUBJECT COMBINATIONS
Apart from a degree in Mathematics which requires Further Maths, if you are thinking of studying physics related or engineering courses or medical courses at university, then you will be expected to do A Level Mathematics and sometimes Further Maths. For other disciplines such as Economics, Mathematics is a requirement for many and especially the top universities. So you may want to combine Maths with sciences, Economics or Business Studies. However a number of DLD students study Maths alongside Art subjects.
WHAT DO I DO AFTER DLD?
Mathematics is a diverse discipline that deals with data, measurements and observations from science, inference, deduction, proofs as well as with mathematical models of natural phenomena, human behaviour and social systems. You will certainly come across applications of mathematics at some stage in your future careers. The skills that you acquire while studying Mathematics are valued greatly by universities and employers in general. A good pass at A level will be looked at very favourably by universities even if Mathematics is not directly related to your course.
QUESTIONS ON MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS COURSES
Q: Can I do the course in one year?
A: Mathematics is taught over 2 years, except for the 18-Month course which is taught from January and is examined the next year, and for those students who plan to study Further Mathematics in Year 2. Students who take Further Mathematics are expected to have completed A-Level Mathematics by the end of Year 1.”
Q: Which exam board is studied?
A: Edexcel for all options except Statistics (AQA).
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS ON MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
To study A Levels, your current or pending exam results should be equivalent to or higher than GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) in at least 5 subjects and a minimum level of English equivalent to IELTS 5.5.
At the start of each academic year of study students following an A Level course without a pass at Level 5/Grade C in GCSE or IGCSE English Language or with an Academic English score below 6.5 overall must join an Academic English training course for the duration of the academic year which will be timetabled alongside A Level lessons.
If your level of English is not sufficient to meet the entry criteria for the A Level programme you will normally be offered a place on the one year Academic Preparation Course (pre A Level) in order to bring your English skills up to the required level.
