Use of Mathematics

Use of Mathematics
The Basics
Course Requirements
GCSE Mathematics - Grade B
Syllabus
Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk
Who to contact
Mr D Woodruff - Course Leader
Overview
Use of Maths, as the name
suggests, is a course that
develops an appreciation of
how mathematics can be
applied to a great variety
of real-life situations. It
links well with a wide
range of other subjects.
At AS level we study
three modules; algebra,
data analysis and decision
maths, all assessed by
examination for which
pre-release material is
provided. Should you
continue to A2 level you
will study higher level
algebra and be assessed
both by examination and
by coursework.
You
AS Level
Algebra (USE 1). This module builds on skills learnt at GCSE, exploring how
algebraic techniques can be used to solve problems about the real world. USE 1
also introduces new methods for solving complex problems such as exponential
and logarithmic functions and mathematical modelling.
Data Analysis (9993) This course builds on the basics from GCSE and shows the
use of new statistical methods such as finding correlation and regression and
modelling real life situations using the Normal distribution.
Decision Mathematics (9997) Decision maths is entirely new to sixth form
students, but to those who are logical thinkers it is often the most accessible area
of the course. Problems tackled in decision maths include finding the shortest
route between two cities, the quickest way to take a tour of an area and how to
perform critical path analysis on a building project.
A2 Level
Calculus (9998). In this module you will study rates of change (growth and decay)
and optimization problems (most efficient use of material to perform a task). We
solve these using Calculus rather than by drawing graphs.
Mathematical Applications (USE 2). Two pieces of coursework are to be produced
by each student, together counting for a third of the A2 assessment. One shows
off skills learnt in Decision Maths, the other demonstrating skills learnt in Data
Analysis from AS.
Mathematical Comprehension (USE 3). This assesses students’ understanding of
Algebra and Calculus. One section of the exam has questions based on pre-released
material; the rest is new material upon which questions must be answered.
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Use of Mathematics (Continued)
You
Students need to be confident mathematically. They should be numerate, logical thinkers who can
see how maths is utilised in every-day situations. Whilst algebra skills are a necessity for the
course, at AS level Use of Maths there is less emphasis put upon algebra than in the AS Maths
course. At A2, there is a similar amount of higher level algebra being taught as in A2 Maths,
albeit with more of an emphasis about how it links to real life.
Use of Maths is still a pilot qualification, though it is due to be accredited in 2014. Universities
have accepted Use of Maths as an AS or A2 qualification that can help gain access to courses
across a range of subjects. Students wishing to go on to study for a Maths or Science degree
should take Maths rather than Use of Maths at A Level.
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