Sixth Form Course Booklet 2013 - Bromsgrove School

FURTHER MATHEMATICS
WHY STUDY FURTHER MATHEMATICS?
Mathematics is a hugely broad subject that includes branches that are utterly different other than that they make use
of symbolisation and that they involve logical and analytical processes. Single mathematics A level of necessity
concentrates mostly on those topics within the subject that are needed in its role as a service provider for other
subjects or further study. Further mathematics enables some appreciation of the breadth of the subject to be
developed. It enables abstract ideas to be studied in rather more depth. It enables applied ideas to be studied in depth
that will give study of mathematically based higher education courses a flying start. Since able mathematicians can
work more quickly through ideas and their mathematics is more advanced at the start of the course, they will not find
the single subject particularly challenging; this course gives then something to get their teeth into.
AIMS OF THE COURSE
1. To develop interest in and enjoyment of the subject.
2. To develop an appreciation of the breadth and depth of mathematics.
3. To develop an ability to think abstractly and logically in depth.
4. To encourage a sense of achievement in meeting an intellectual challenge.
5. To develop an advanced base for further study.
6. To develop affection for the subject.
SKILLS NEEDED FOR AND DEVELOPED IN THE COURSE
These are essentially the same as those needed for single mathematics, but developed to a higher degree. Pupils
studying further mathematics need to take full responsibility for their own learning and to take initiative when (if) they
hit difficulty.
REQUIREMENTS FOR STARTING THE COURSE
The course is Mathematics A level in the Lower Sixth and Further Mathematics A level in the Upper Sixth. The
requirement to start the course is IGCSE Mathematics grade A*, but preferably some mathematical study beyond
GCSE, such as the units C1 and C2 (as covered by Set 1 in the Fifth Form). Normally Further Mathematics A level is
only studied if a grade A has been achieved in the Lower Sixth or if an A can be guaranteed through retakes in the
Upper Sixth. If this is not the case, it is usual to aim for AS Further Mathematics instead, which allows time to
concentrate on achieving the A in Mathematics.
Course followed: Mathematics
Examination Board: Edexcel
CONTENT OF THE COURSE UNITS
A minimum of six further units are studied in addition to those covered in the Lower Sixth Mathematics A level course.
These are a selection from Further Pure Mathematics 1, 2 and 3 Mechanics 3 and 4, Statistics 2 and 3 and Decision
Mathematics 1. These ensure that pupils study mathematics to the necessary breadth and depth both to be
thoroughly prepared for the study of the subject at university and to have a clear idea of the huge range of its
application.
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