The mathematics course here at CHS will focus on the development of key mathematical skills that will prove useful in all aspects of life, concentrating on the application of maths to other key life skills. The course will also provide a strong basis for further study at university. An understanding of numbers, patterns and relationships will be developed and key problem-solving skills emphasised. By the end of their studies, students will be able to confidently communicate and reason using mathematical concepts.
The topics studied in the first year of A Level are:
Pure 1:
- Quadratics
- Functions
- Coordinate geometry
- Circular measure
- Trigonometry
- Series
- Differentiation
- Integration
Pure 2 & 3:
- Algebra
- Logarithmic and exponential functions
- Trigonometry
Mechanics:
- Velocity and acceleration
- Force and motion in one dimension
- Forces in two dimensions
- Friction
- Connected particles
- General motion in a straight line
- Momentum
- Work and energy
- The work-energy principle and power
The topics studied in the second year of A Level are:
- Algebra
- Logarithmic and exponential functions
- Trigonometry
- Differentiation
- Integration
- Numerical solutions of equations
Pure 3:
- Further algebra
- Further calculus
- Vectors
- Differential equations
- Complex numbers
Probability and Statistics:
- Representation of data
- Measures of central tendency
- Measures of variation
- Probability
- Permutations and combinations
- Probability distributions
- The binomial and geometric distributions
- The normal distribution
Mechanics:
- Projectiles
- Equilibrium of a rigid body
- Circular motion
- Hooke’s law
- Linear motion
- Momentum
Class sizes will be small, no more than 8 students. A typical lesson will consist of time spent lecturing and discussing key concepts, in which the student will be expected to take notes and engage in the discussion, alongside time spent answering questions and solving problems, both alone and working with the rest of the class. The problems will come from a variety of sources including past exam papers and textbooks.
Homework will be set weekly and should be completed promptly and scanned and uploaded for marking where possible.
All course information and material will be available online through Microsoft Teams, which will also serve as a subject forum and message board whereby students can engage in discussion and can ask the teacher and each other questions.
A scientific calculator is mandatory.
Lessons will use a virtual whiteboard that both students and the teacher can write upon. In mathematics, drawing diagrams and handwriting calculations is key to learning, so all students will be required to purchase a graphics tablet and stylus pen in order to be able to answer problems on the whiteboard. There are many such tablets available on Amazon; we recommend the Trust Flex Graphic Tablet (~£25), or if you have an iPad and Macintosh, we recommend purchasing a Wacom Bamboo Stylus (~£6) and downloading the Astropad application (~£15) from the app store.
Students will be expected to take notes, so lined paper will be also be necessary, alongside a ruler, protractor and drawing compass.
A printer and scanner will also be useful.
No reading material is mandatory as the lessons are self-contained.
However, if you wish to purchase reading material, the following books by Cambridge University Press are recommended:
- Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics: Pure 1
- Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics: Pure 2 & 3
- Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics: Mechanics
- Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics: Probability & Statistics 1
It is the parents’ responsibility to arrange their child’s examinations; our teachers will provide all the support required. Most students will sit their examination papers at a school or college who accept private candidates. Some students sit their examinations at private examination centres.
If you are intending to study A Level Maths, we recommend that you spend some time in the summer holidays preparing. Here are some suggested activities:
Watch:
YouTube suggestions – Interested Videos – 10 great Maths YouTube channels
Online puzzles:
NRICH Secondary – puzzles and problems set by the University of Cambridge
Activities to do on paper:
What is the structure of the A Level Maths online course?
The online Maths A Level course builds on the knowledge gained from IGCSE and aims to develop a student’s mathematical understanding and problem-solving abilities. The course is a fully-accredited, internationally-recognised qualification, offering a basis for further study in mathematics, the sciences, and engineering.
How does the Maths A Level online course prepare students for further studies or employment?
The A Level Maths online course focuses not only on mathematical concepts but also on developing reasoning and communication skills. It is designed to prepare students for success in exams, as well as to provide a strong foundation for university studies and employment.
What are the expectations regarding homework and assessment in the online Maths A Level course?
Students are expected to complete a minimum of one homework assignment per week for each subject. In addition to class time, students should aim for an hour of independent study for each hour of instruction. The course also includes Level 5 and Level 6 internal assessments at different times of the year.
How can parents monitor the progress of their children in the Maths A Level online course?
Parents are encouraged to use their family Teams account to maintain regular communication with teachers. This provides a more comprehensive overview of a student’s performance and progress compared to a traditional annual parent-teacher meeting.
What practical aspects are involved in the A Level Maths course?
The class size is limited to no more than 8 students, offering a more focused learning environment. Lessons involve both lectures on key concepts and problem-solving sessions. Course material and homework will be accessible online, primarily through Microsoft Teams.