Course information
Mathematics
Emanuel School - Wandsworth
02088704171
Battersea Rise, London, SW11 1HS
Course summary

The main reason for studying Mathematics at an advanced level is that it is interesting and enjoyable. People like its challenge, its clarity, and the fact that you know when you are right. The solution to a problem has excitement and satisfaction. Choose to study Mathematics because it interests you and you want to learn more, because you enjoy being challenged and are prepared to stick at a problem until you crack it and because it complements your other Level choices and provides the mathematical skills you need. A Level Mathematics is a course worth studying not only as a supporting subject for the physical and social sciences but in its own right. It is challenging and interesting. It builds on the work covered at GCSE, but also involves new ideas that some of the greatest minds of the millennium have produced. It serves as a very useful support for many other qualifications as well as being a sought-after qualification for the workplace and in higher education courses. The Senior UKMT Mathematics Challenge, Hans Woyda, House Mathematics competitions and Mathematics in Action lectures all provide further stimuli for A Level students. While studying A Level Mathematics you will be expected to: • Use mathematical skills and knowledge, with an emphasis on algebra, to solve problems. • Solve complicated problems by using mathematical arguments and logic. You will also have to understand and demonstrate what is meant by ‘proof’. • Model real-life situations so that you can use mathematics to show what is happening and what might happen in different circumstances. • Use calculator technology and other ICT resources effectively and appropriately; understand calculator limitations and when it is inappropriate to use such technology. Features of the A-Level Mathematics Syllabus: The A Level syllabus consists of Pure Mathematics, Statistics and Mechanics. Pure is the core subject, developing your skills in algebra, trigonometry, equation solving and calculus (which is all about gradients, areas under curves and how one quantity changes with another). The topics covered are: • Proof • Algebra and functions • Coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane • Sequences and series • Trigonometry • Exponentials and logarithms • Differentiation • Integration • Numerical methods • Vectors Statistics is concerned with data collection, display and prediction as well as probability. The ideas you will meet in this course have implications in a wide range of other fields – from assessing what your car insurance is going to cost to how likely it is that the earth is going to be hit by a comet in the next few years. The topics covered are: • Statistical sampling • Data presentation and interpretation • Probability • Statistical distributions • Statistical hypothesis testing Mechanics is about forces and movement and how the world around us works. Many of the ideas you will meet in the course form an essential introduction to such A-level options 2023–25 35 important modern fields of study as cybernetics, robotics, biomechanics and sports science, as well as the more traditional areas of engineering and physics. The topics covered are: • Quantities and units in mechanics • Kinematics • Variable Acceleration • Forces and Newton’s laws • Moments • Projectiles Each set will be taught by two teachers for a total of 8 periods per week. As with all courses, there is a need to work outside the confines of the classroom and independent learning is key to success. Extensive homework is set every week and there are regular tests to assess your understanding. Help is always available outside the timetabled lessons.

Entry requirements

In general, a 7 at GCSE is the minimum grade you will need to achieve in a subject to be able to study it at Emanuel at A level. Additionally, if you wish to study Mathematics or Physics at A level you will need at least an 8 at GCSE, and those studying Physics at A level must also be studying A level Mathematics. In addition, we require the average grade criteria to be met. This standard indicates that a pupil will be able to study independently, and can successfully access the very Only students who achieve grade 8 or higher at GCSE will be able to study A-level mathematics. We advise that you consult your mathematics teacher with regard to your suitability for A-level mathematics and listen to the advice offered. much more challenging material presented by the A-level courses.

How you'll be assessed

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Mathematics consists of three equally weighted two-hour papers at the end of Year 13. Paper 1 and 2 are based on the Pure Mathematics content whereas Paper 3 is based on the Statistics & Mechanics units. Calculators can be used in all three of the exams.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionLondon
Local AuthorityWandsworth
Ofsted Rating
Gender TypeCo-Educational
ISI ReportView Report
Boarding FeeUnknown
Sixth Form Fee£23,061
AddressBattersea Rise, London, SW11 1HS