Double Maths (Maths + Further Maths) A Level
Board: Pearson Edexcel
About the subject
The Double Maths course is for those with a real love of mathematics (and algebra!). The course leads to two A levels – one in Mathematics and one in Further Mathematics – and therefore is taught over two blocks. Students are taught in separate classes from those taking a single Maths A level.
Students will study a wide range of pure and applied content in the two A-levels. The pure content expands upon the algebra, geometry and trigonometry from GCSE and introduces new areas of mathematics such as exponentials and logarithms, calculus, and parametric equations and reimagines both the number and geometry systems with complex numbers and polar coordinates. Skill in algebra is particularly important as it underpins all other topics.
Mechanical mathematics covers analysing forces, accelerations, momentum and similar ideas to describe what happens in physical situations. Statistical mathematics extends the work done at GCSE to cover ways of analysing and displaying numerical data from small and large data sets, and of drawing conclusions from these. Probability theory becomes a key tool, with new probability distributions being studied.
Learning styles
Lessons will comprise of a variety of styles and formats. Students will access the content of the course through preparatory work (online videos or walk-throughs), explanation of the concepts in class by the teacher, or through independent or group investigation. Students will work individually and cooperatively to consolidate their understanding, and engage in short and extended problem-solving tasks. Students need to take an active part in their learning, in monitoring their depth of understanding and in taking steps to repair weaknesses, as well as completing weekly problem sets and preparatory assignments. Regular tests help students to monitor their own progress and the maths department has well-established support structures in place to enhance success.
Subject Combinations and Progression
Many students on this course go on to study degrees in Mathematics, or a subject with a significant mathematical component. A qualification in Further Maths is highly respected as an indicator of intellectual ability, and absolutely necessary for mathematically related degrees at the top universities. The maths department offers a wider range of support for students aspiring to these universities including STEP and AEA preparation classes.
Subject Modules and Assessment
The A-level in Mathematics course will be taught in year 1 and the Further Maths A-level course in the second year. Both A-levels are examined in the summer term at the end of year 2 (three exams for Maths and a minimum of four for Further Maths), comprising topics from all areas of the maths and further maths courses respectively
Entry requirements
GCSE grade 7 (an 8 or 9 preferred) in Mathematics and a grade 4 in an English GCSE is required . There is no requirement to take any Additional Maths qualifications, though these can be helpful.