Faculty of Mathematics

Mathematics

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Guide to A Level Mathematics (Edexcel)

Minimum recommended entry requirements:
a good Grade B in GCSE Mathematics via the higher paper.

The department is using the University of London Modular Syllabus which allows a more flexible approach enabling students to study a wider combination of mathematical topics. There are eighteen study modules from which you may choose six for the award of an A Level certificate or three for an AS certificate:

P1 Pure Maths 1	M1 Mechanics 1	S1 Statistics 1
P2 Pure Maths 2	M2 Mechanics 2	S2 Statistics 2
P3 Pure Maths 3	M3 Mechanics 3	S3 Statistics 3
P4 Pure Maths 4	M4 Mechanics 4	S4 Statistics 4
P5 Pure Maths 5	M5 Mechanics 5	S5 Statistics 5
P6 Pure Maths 6	M6 Mechanics 6	S6 Statistics 6

Each module is approximately a third of the year's work with examinations set in June. In practice all of our students will study P1 + M1 + S1 in the Lower Sixth. They will take the examination in 3 modules (three 1hr 30mins papers) at the end of the Lower Sixth. This will be the equivalent of an AS examination but the majority of students will continue to study 3 further modules in the Upper Sixth for an A Level grading. These modules will be P2 + P3 and either M2 or S2.

Possible combinations for A Level Mathematics are:

P1, P2, P3, M1, M2, S1
P1, P2, P3, M1, S1, S2

In general, students studying Science subjects at A Level, particularly Physics, will find the first option P1, P2, P3, M1, M2, S1 the most appropriate. Students considering taking Mathematics in conjunction with Psychology, Business Studies, Biology or Geography will probably find the Statistics options more appropriate.

Some students who are very keen on Mathematics may be allowed to study extra modules for a Further Mathematics qualification.

Full details of syllabuses and combinations are available from the Maths Department and prospective students are advised to discuss the options with their Maths teacher.

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