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Mathematics & Further Mathematics |
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What does the subject involve? Mathematics involves the evolution of theory to devise techniques to solve numerical problems. The subject is correctly seen as subtle, challenging and rewarding. At AS and A level the subject is split into pure and applied mathematics modules. All courses require you to study Pure (C) components. There are also applied mathematics modules covering Statistics (S) and Mechanics (M).
- Pure Mathematics includes topics already met at GCSE level such as trigonometry, geometry and algebra. These topics are taken to a more advanced level and the discipline of calculus is also introduced. - Mechanics consists of topics perhaps previously associated more with Physics than with Mathematics. Students learn about forces, motion, and static equilibrium - Statistics is a study of the collection, organisation, presentation, and analysis of data from real life problems. The aim is to model for future outcomes using probability theory. Those students wishing to study the Statistics (S2) will learn about statistical decision making through hypothesis tests. Who does the subject suit? Mathematics is a useful subject in supporting studies in the sciences, social sciences, geography, and computing. Indeed, it can also be studied for its ownsake. It is fun to master sophisticated techniques and the skills acquired in logical thinking can be applied across a broad selection of academic disciplines. If you enjoy problem solving, are good at algebra and have at least an A grade in GCSE Mathematics then AS/A level Mathematics could be for you. Further Mathematics is aimed at students who have exceptional mathematical ability (A* at GCSE).
Who will teach me? The mathematics teachers are very experienced teachers, dedicated, and highly qualified (amongst their ranks there are four PhDs and two published authors). More important than the density of “egg heads” in our team is our ability to relate to our students. Without exception we have developed ways of forming successful learning relationships with our students alongside a knack of explaining complicated concepts in straightforward terms. We are approachable, supportive and aim to maintain a happy but purposeful learning environment. Once you start studying with us you soon discover the eclectic nature of the characters within the department .I would hate to spoil the prospective students’ fun by giving too much away in potted biographies. However, you can be sure that we will all demand hard work!
What are the results like?
We are proud to proclaim that are results are amongst the very best in the country. In the A level Mathematics between 2002 and 2007 there was a 100% pass rate and throughout this period over 80 % of all entrants have passed with either an A or B grade. In Further Mathematics there has been a similar level of success. In 2005 all 12 of our candidates gained grade A passes with one candidate achieving a perfect 600 out of 600 score. In 2006 there was again a 100 % pass rate with some outstanding individual results. These included two candidates securing places at Cambridge University to read mathematics and one student who studied 21 different modules in mathematics to gain 3.5 A levels in mathematics all at grade A. The 100% pass rate continued into 2007 with a usual share of outstanding performances. .
What can I do with my mathematics qualification? Both universities and employers hold an A level qualification in Mathematics in high regard. With the appropriate combination of other AS and A levels, A level Mathematics can lead to a wide variety of options when choosing higher education courses. Typical examples include Medicine, Engineering, Law, Business, Social and Political sciences, Natural sciences, and of course Mathematics itself. Similarly the employment opportunities are equally diverse. Further Mathematics is strongly recommended for those students who wish to apply to those universities listed in the “top ten” for such subjects as Engineering, Economics, or Mathematics. What do the examinations involve? These depend on the course selected but the Edexcel Examination Board assesses them all. The courses offered are: AS level Mathematics: A one-year course consisting of three mathematics modules:
Those students who have ambitions to study physics or Engineering at a higher level will be encouraged to take Mechanics (M1). Whereas those pursuing interests in the Social Sciences, Business Studies, Biology and Geography will find Statistics (S1) a more constructive choice. A level Mathematics: a two-year course with AS being taken in the first year and A2 in the second year .The AS results are carried forward into the second year and there are opportunities to re-sit modules if necessary. A2 consists of three more modules as summarised below:
A level Further Mathematics (two –year course) In the first year of the course, students study six modules of mathematics to secure an A level in the subject. In the following year they study a further six modules of a more challenging nature. By the end of the course they will have two A-levels in the subject – Mathematics and Further Mathematics. As two A levels are studied this is reflected in the tuition time.
Why study Mathematics at d’Overbroeck’s? Some of the reasons for studying mathematics at d’Overbroeck’s may have been made clear to you already. The results achieved by the College in this subject over the years, without wishing to crow, are compelling. However, it is the teachers who make the Mathematics Department special. The friendly and purposeful atmosphere attracts enthusiastic and dynamic teachers who are committed to the College in the long term. This has enabled us to generate a considerable expertise in A-level Mathematics teaching. We find that most students thrive in this environment and they are quick to sense that they are valued whatever their academic potential.
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