A Level: Mathematics

Course title: Advanced GCE in Mathematics (H240)

Exam board: OCR

Subject specific entry criteria: Grade 7 or above in GCSE Mathematics.

Course overview

Pure Core topics include:

  • Mathematical proof

  • Algebra and functions

  • Coordinate geometry

  • Sequences and series

  • Trigonometry

  • Exponentials and logarithms

  • Calculus

  • Numerical methods

Statistics topics include:

  • Statistical sampling

  • Data presentation

  • Data interpretation

  • Probability

  • Statistical distributions

  • Statistical hypothesis testing

Mechanics topics include:

  • Quantities and units
  • Kiematics
  • Forces and Newton’s laws
  • Moments
  • Vectors
Assessment overview

Paper 1:

  • Pure Mathematics (01)
  • 100 marks
  • 2 hour written paper
  • 33.3% of total A Level

Paper 2: 

  • Pure & Statistics (02)
  • 100 marks
  • 2 hour written paper
  • 33.3% of total A Level

Paper 3:

  • Pure & Mechanics (03)
  • 100 marks
  • 2 hour written paper
  • 33.3% of total A Level
Future progression

The emphasis on deductive reasoning and problem solving makes mathematics an excellent facilitator. The course provides a firm foundation in pure mathematics, whilst the mechanics will help those wishing to pursue natural sciences, engineering, etc. and the statistics assists the further study of medicine, the social sciences, psychology, etc. The intellectual rigour of Mathematics A Level means that as well as being a requirement for mathematical sciences it is highly desirable in other areas as it highlights the candidate’s overall intellectual ability.

Potential careers

Mathematics allows entry to a huge range of careers in areas including: Engineering, Science, Research, Computing, Cryptology, Accountancy, Finance and Consultancy.

How to succeed in Mathematics

This is a very demanding course and, although some candidates might have found their progression through GCSE uncomplicated, A Level requires intensive study and reiteration of skills throughout the course. It is recognised as an extremely intensive study programme and requires a lot of self-resilience. Enthusiasm and seeing Maths as a priority is essential.

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