A minimum of a B at IGCSE (strongly recommended A).
You will be given a summer work booklet to be completed over the holidays which is to be handed in during your first lesson. You will then be assessed on your subject knowledge in September.
Studying mathematics helps us find patterns and structure in our lives. Practically, mathematics helps us put a price on things, create graphics, build websites, build skyscrapers and generally understand how things work or predict how they might change over time and under different conditions. Maths is also continually growing and changing, as mathematicians and scientists expand on what they already know to discover new theories and inventions.
Maths is one of the best subjects to develop your analytical, research and problem-solving skills. Not only will studying mathematics help give you the knowledge to tackle scientific, mechanical, coding and abstract problems, it will also help you develop logic to tackle everyday issues like planning projects, managing budgets and even debating effectively.
You will develop the skills and knowledge you have already gained at IGCSE such as Algebra, Trigonometry and Statistics as well as being introduced to Mechanics – a branch of applied mathematics dealing with motion and forces. More emphasis is placed on deepening understanding of methods rather than following procedures, and there is a focus on proof and logical reasoning throughout the course.
You will learn to use technology, such as calculators and computers, effectively and will learn how to interpret solutions and communicate this effectively in the context of the problem. You will have four double lessons per week, and will be given on average 1 hour of homework per lesson. This is in addition to private study, practice and revision which is expected to be part of your regular study habits.
After each chapter of study you will be given a formative assessment to consolidate your learning and identify any areas of weakness. You will also have regular formative assessments during class time on a range of prior learning and you will take internal exams at the end of Year 12. External exams will take place at the end of your second year of study. The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced Subsidiary GCE in Mathematics consists of three externally-examined papers:
People with mathematics degrees and other qualifications can go into: accounting, medicine, engineering, forensic pathology, finance, business, consultancy, teaching, IT, games development, scientific research, programming, the civil service, design, construction and astrophysics and many more. It is in fact a must have for degrees in: physics, engineering, actuarial science, many economics courses and, of course, mathematics, although you may need to study a further mathematics course as well to do this.
Mathematics is desirable or sometimes required for: computer science, accounting, chemistry, biology and life sciences, medicine/nursing, dentistry, business studies, management studies, finance, architecture, geology, psychology, surveying and even philosophy.