A-Level Mathematics
- Start date(s):
- 7 Sep 2020
- Duration:
- 2 years
- Level:
- Level 3
- Course Code:
- 1031015
- Study Mode:
- FT/PT
- Attendance Type:
- Campus
- Attendance Pattern:
- Daytime
- Awarded by:
- Edexcel
- Location:
- Framwellgate Moor Campus
- Course costs:
- 16-18 - Free (UK & EEA)
19+ - £993 per year, your course may be free
Funding
Overview
The aim of this subject is to develop your understanding of mathematics and mathematical processes in a way that promotes confidence and enjoyment.
Studying this subject will enable you to recognise how real-life situations may be represented mathematically and acquire the skills required to use technology to effectively solve mathematical problems.
You will study pure mathematics, statistics and mechanics.
Experience
New College Durham Sixth Form welcomed Norwegian students from Elvebakken School in Oslo to study A-Levels.
Our Norwegian and Sixth Form students embraced Christmas traditions during their end of term party.
Students and staff from our Sixth Form Centre celebrated a 100% pass rate in 16 subjects.
A-Level students visited Durham University as part of Welcome Week.
The Sixth Form A2 students attended the Teesside University Open Day.
Our Sixth Form students visited Durham University to learn about the opportunities available through higher education.
Students attended the UCAS Higher Education Convention at Teesside University.
A Reader in Mathematics and Astrophysics from Northumbria University came to the College to speak to our AS Maths students.
An entrepreneurial A-Level student has won over £2,000 worth of funding for an innovative new product he has designed.
12 of our AS students attended an Oxbridge student conference.
Students raise a fantastic £482.69 for Comic Relief.
The college has received an impressive set of A-Level results enabling students to be accepted onto top university courses.
Students took part in fun and interactive activities designed to inspire an interest in politics.
Twenty four students from Elvebakken College, Oslo, will be spending the following academic year studying with us.
Aims
This programme focuses primarily on developing and interlinking concepts of pure mathematical algebra and new areas of mathematics, such as calculus and logarithms, so that you will have a robust understanding of the homogeneous nature of mathematics.
Modules
A significant emphasis will be placed on the following:
- Methods of solving equations
- Curve sketching
- Coordinate geometry
- Differentiation, integration, trigonometric identities, and vector calculations
- Solving multi-faceted problems involving intertwining mathematical concepts
- Developing and showing algebraic proofs and being able to create examples of, and analyse the efficiency and accuracy of mathematical models.
As well as pure mathematics, you will study applied components in Statistics and Mechanics. Both of these develop exponentially from knowledge acquired in GCSE.
In Statistics, you will gain experience in spreadsheet analysis and working with large datasets, developing abilities to “clean data” and other vital skills for an individual to achieve success within the data driven working world. You will also do further work into probability; as well as developing knowledge on modelling, hypothesis testing and a variety of statistical distributions
Mechanics develops on work relating to kinematics and SUVAT equations, which is part of the 9-1 GCSE Mathematics qualification, and is highly interlinked with Physics. A significant focus is placed on modelling and solving problems relating to Newton’s laws of motion, connected particles, moments and application of mathematical concepts such as vectors and calculus.
Time commitment
Average number of hours per week
Delivery
Day and time of study will be confirmed before the start of your course.
Teaching & assessment
You will be taught by lecturers who are specialists in their subjects. Teaching is classroom based and involves group work and individual work. Independent study is essential outside of the classroom and frequent homework will be given. You will sit monthly in-class assessment for which you will receive extensive feedback, as well as other assessments throughout the academic year, which will help you track your progress.
In your first year you will have 2 exams. One will be a Pure Mathematics exam, the other will be an Applied Mathematics exam, with mandatory components on both Statistics and Mechanics.
In order to gain the A-level qualification, you will sit 3 exams in your 2nd year, which assess knowledge from the 2 years of study. Two of these will be Pure Mathematics examinations and the other will be an Applied Mathematics exam, with mandatory components in Statistics and Mechanics. These three exams alone will make up your final grade.
Calculators are to be used in all examinations.
Maths and English
Maths and English skills are essential for the workplace and university.
Placement:
Work placements are an important part of the programme and all learners will be given assistance in finding a suitable position.
This A-Level, in combination with other subjects, could enable you to apply for degree courses in Accountancy, Aeronautical Engineering, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Economics, Teacher Training, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Environmental Science, Geology, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Medicine, or Pharmacy.
What else?
Funding
*Enrolling on their first full Level 3 Course - Free
Find out more about course fees and financial support for UK, EU and non-EU students, plus how to pay your fees.
View our refund policy for further and higher education programmes (page 2) and full cost courses.
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Additional Costs
Students will be expected to purchase an fx-991EX "Classwiz" calculator (or similar high functioning equivalent, in line with exam board standards). Approximate cost £32.00.
Interview Instructions
You will be invited in for a tour of the College, and a one-to-one interview with one of our lecturers. A conditional offer may then be made subject to you meeting the entry criteria.
Find out more information about your college interview.
Entry Criteria
Ideally, you will hold a minimum of 5 GCSEs at 9 to 4 (A* to C) which must include maths and English. You will need a grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language and maths, and 6's in separate sciences or Core and Additional Science (BB equivalent).