Mathematics AS Level - Queen Mary's College, … AS... · Mathematics – AS Level Head of ... A combination of pure and applied mathematics will help you to ... levels has effectively

Mathematics – AS Level Head of Department: David Smith

Email: [email protected]

Fact File• A valuable addition to a three A level programme• Worth up to 20 UCAS points to boost your credentials when applying for university or apprenticeships• A one-year course equivalent to 40% of a full A level; 5 hours p.w.• Consists of two thirds pure maths (algebra) plus one third applied maths (a combination of mechanics and statistics)• No optionality; the same course content across all exam boards from 2017• Opportunity to compete in local and national competitions, including UK Senior Maths Challenge, Maths Olympiad and Senior Team Mathematics Challenge• Trips & talks: Mathematics Inspiration & visiting speakers on applications of mathematics• Extra support sessions for those sitting additional entrance tests (e.g. BMAT, UKCAT etc)Course SummaryThis course is highly valued by universities and businesses alike. Whilst the change to linear A levels has effectively got rid of Advanced Subsidiary (AS) qualifications, maths has been recognised as a unique exception. The central importance of mathematics in the modern world, its core relevance to all sectors of employment, has preserved the AS Maths course and its status as a highly prized academic award. It will help you to develop the analytical and problem-solving skills employers need. Building on your GCSE algebra skills, you will learn how to interpret information and prove important results, using mathematical equations to model real-world situations. A combination of pure and applied mathematics will help you to think logically and make accurate observations. Maths is critical to understanding science and sits well alongside any combination of A level subjects. Topics covered include algebra, graphs and functions, trigonometry, Calculus and proof. Alongside this pure maths, you’ll meet some practical applications in statistics and mechanics. Exams will assess your problem-solving skills.The statistical element looks at how to analyse data and draw conclusions about what it tells us. It covers correlation, probability and different distributions. Mechanics involves forces and motion, using equations to model practical situations and predict how an object will move.

Specific Entry RequirementsFor Mathematics: GCSE Maths at grade 7 or higher; grade 6 considered on an individual basis.

Progression Skills & OpportunitiesMathematics develops all of the skills that are in high demand among graduates and school-leavers:• Problem solving – you will learn to interpret a question and apply appropriate techniques to obtain an answer. That’s what makes maths one of the most rewarding subjects to study!• Communication – Mathematics is a language. You will learn to express yourself succinctly with precision, using correct terminology. There is no room for ambiguity in mathematics!• Teamwork – Working on your own will develop your powers of concentration; however, much of the learning is done collaboratively, discussing problems and pooling ideas to find a way through to an answer.• Analysis – A key skill in maths is to break problems down and to make sense of a complex situation by analysing it in a piecemeal fashion. You will learn to interpret technical information, presented in tables, charts, graphs and diagrams…not to mention algebra!• Resilience – Staying power is essential if you are going to solve a tricky problem. You’ll learn not to give up, but to keep trying different approaches to find a way through.• Logical reasoning – you will be able to argue a case logically and to confirm results using mathematical proof. You’ll see how to draw general conclusions from evidence and understand the implications of a general principle in particular circumstances.• Independence – You will lean to be self-reliant and work things out for yourself.• Organisation – You’ll have to be disciplined; you’ll learn to manage your workload, selecting the resources you need and meeting deadlines, practising skills and getting help when you need it.

How is the Course Assessed?The course will be assessed in examinations at the end of the year.

Cliddesden Road, Basingstoke, Hants, RG21 3HF Tel: 01256 417500 Email: [email protected] www.qmc.ac.uk

Mathematics – AS Level Head of Department: David Smith

Email: [email protected]

Fact File• A valuable addition to a three A level programme• Worth up to 20 UCAS points to boost your credentials when applying for university or apprenticeships• A one-year course equivalent to 40% of a full A level; 5 hours p.w.• Consists of two thirds pure maths (algebra) plus one third applied maths (a combination of mechanics and statistics)• No optionality; the same course content across all exam boards from 2017• Opportunity to compete in local and national competitions, including UK Senior Maths Challenge, Maths Olympiad and Senior Team Mathematics Challenge• Trips & talks: Mathematics Inspiration & visiting speakers on applications of mathematics• Extra support sessions for those sitting additional entrance tests (e.g. BMAT, UKCAT etc)Course SummaryThis course is highly valued by universities and businesses alike. Whilst the change to linear A levels has effectively got rid of Advanced Subsidiary (AS) qualifications, maths has been recognised as a unique exception. The central importance of mathematics in the modern world, its core relevance to all sectors of employment, has preserved the AS Maths course and its status as a highly prized academic award. It will help you to develop the analytical and problem-solving skills employers need. Building on your GCSE algebra skills, you will learn how to interpret information and prove important results, using mathematical equations to model real-world situations. A combination of pure and applied mathematics will help you to think logically and make accurate observations. Maths is critical to understanding science and sits well alongside any combination of A level subjects. Topics covered include algebra, graphs and functions, trigonometry, Calculus and proof. Alongside this pure maths, you’ll meet some practical applications in statistics and mechanics. Exams will assess your problem-solving skills.The statistical element looks at how to analyse data and draw conclusions about what it tells us. It covers correlation, probability and different distributions. Mechanics involves forces and motion, using equations to model practical situations and predict how an object will move.

Specific Entry RequirementsFor Mathematics: GCSE Maths at grade 7 or higher; grade 6 considered on an individual basis.

Progression Skills & OpportunitiesMathematics develops all of the skills that are in high demand among graduates and school-leavers:• Problem solving – you will learn to interpret a question and apply appropriate techniques to obtain an answer. That’s what makes maths one of the most rewarding subjects to study!• Communication – Mathematics is a language. You will learn to express yourself succinctly with precision, using correct terminology. There is no room for ambiguity in mathematics!• Teamwork – Working on your own will develop your powers of concentration; however, much of the learning is done collaboratively, discussing problems and pooling ideas to find a way through to an answer.• Analysis – A key skill in maths is to break problems down and to make sense of a complex situation by analysing it in a piecemeal fashion. You will learn to interpret technical information, presented in tables, charts, graphs and diagrams…not to mention algebra!• Resilience – Staying power is essential if you are going to solve a tricky problem. You’ll learn not to give up, but to keep trying different approaches to find a way through.• Logical reasoning – you will be able to argue a case logically and to confirm results using mathematical proof. You’ll see how to draw general conclusions from evidence and understand the implications of a general principle in particular circumstances.• Independence – You will lean to be self-reliant and work things out for yourself.• Organisation – You’ll have to be disciplined; you’ll learn to manage your workload, selecting the resources you need and meeting deadlines, practising skills and getting help when you need it.

How is the Course Assessed?The course will be assessed in examinations at the end of the year.

Cliddesden Road, Basingstoke, Hants, RG21 3HF Tel: 01256 417500 Email: [email protected] www.qmc.ac.uk