GSO Test

Further Mathematics A Level 

Awarding Body

OCR

Assessment Structure

100% examination (at the end of the course)

  • Paper 1 - Pure Mathematics (90 mins, 75 marks)
  • Paper 2 - Pure Mathematics (90 mins, 75 marks)
  • Paper 3 - Mechanics (90 mins, 75 marks)
  • Paper 4 - Statistics (90 mins, 75 marks)

Minimum entry requirement

  • NBP16C level 3 entry requirements
  • GCSE (8) in mathematics (you must also study A Level mathematics)

Why should I study this course?

This course broadens the range of mathematical studies available to study and for pure mathematics there is also greater depth.  It is excellent preparation if you are interested in studying a degree with a high mathematical content, or if you are simply wishing to develop further your capability in mathematics.

Examples of topics within the further pure mathematics units include mathematical induction, complex numbers, differentiation and integration and numerical methods.  Within the mechanics units, study will include force as a vector, Newton’s laws of motion, energy, work and power and equilibrium of rigid bodies in contact.

What will I learn?

You will develop skills in pure mathematics as well as statistics and mechanics. Examples of topics within the further pure mathematics units include mathematical induction, complex numbers, differentiation and integration and numerical methods.  Within the mechanics unit, study will include energy, work and power, equilibrium of rigid bodies in contact, momentum and collisions and circular motion. Within the statistics unit, study will include combinations and permutations, regression, combining random variables and chi-squared tests.

How will I learn?

You will be taught using a variety of teaching methods including teacher-led activities, group work and independent study.  Consolidation through practice will be an important feature.

There will also be projects and other work completed using technology to support mathematical calculations and conclusions. This will include using graphing software and utilising Microsoft Excel to complete statistical calculations and analyse data.

What can I do with my qualification?

A level further mathematics demonstrates a breadth of understanding that lends itself to further study and you will find yourself in an excellent position to study degree courses with a high mathematical content, such as engineering, mathematics, science, statistics, and computing.

What do students say?

“I know that maths is what I want to do with my future, so I was happy to have the opportunity to make this the major part of my Post 16 study.”

“If you love maths, you’ll LOVE further maths.”