What do I need to know or be able to do before choosing this subject?
You should enjoy mathematics and be following the Higher Level GCSE course. Strong Intermediate Students should ask about the possibility of extra teaching in order to cover key Higher topics. To have a good chance of success you should be heading towards at least a grade B at GCSE.
What do the courses consist of and how will I be assessed?
The AS(Advanced Subsidiary) specification
This is the first half of the full A level course. It is likely that students will sit one module in January with the remaining two at the end of Year 12. Passing AS is a requirement for starting the A2 course.
The course is made up of three modules:
- Pure Core 1 (PC1) 33 1/3% of the AS or 16 2/3% of the A2
Topics covered are: Algebra, co-ordinate geometry, differentiation, integration.
Assessment: One 1 hour 30 minute non-calculator exam. - Pure Core 2 (PC2) 33 1/3% of the AS or 16 2/3% of the A2
Topics covered are: Proof, functions, sequences and series, trigonometry, exponentials and logarithms, differentiation, integration, numerical methods.
Assessment: One 1 hour 30 minute exam. - Mechanics 1 (M1 A/B) 33 1/3% of the AS or 16 2/3% of the A2
Topics covered are: Motion in 1 and 2 dimensions, statics and forces, momentum, Newton’s Laws of Motion, connected particles, projectiles, mathematical modelling.
Assessment: One 1 hour 30 minute exam.
The A2 specification
This is the second half of the full A level course and will commence immediately after the AS exam period finishes. The course is made up of three modules:
- Pure Core 3 (PC3) 16 2/3% of the A2 level
Topics covered are: Proof, algebra and functions, trigonometry, differentiation, integration, numerical methods.
Assessment: One 1 hour 30 minute exam. - Pure Core 4 (PC4) 16 2/3% of the A2 level
Topics covered are: Algebra and functions, co-ordinate geometry in the (x,y) plane, sequences and series, trigonometry exponentials and logarithms, differentiation, integration, vectors.
Assessment: One 1 hour 30 minute exam. - Mechanics 2 (M2 A/B) 16 2/3% of the A2 level
Topics covered are: Moments and Centres of Mass, kinematics, Newton’s Laws of Motion, application of differential equations, uniform circular motion, work and energy, vertical circular motion, modelling.
How could I develop Key Skills by doing this course?
As well as covering the study of Mathematics with Mechanics, the AS/A2 courses will enable you to develop key skills.
What I could go on to do after the course?
An A-level in Mathematics & Mechanics can lead to a wide range of degree courses. Mechanics is particularly useful for anyone wanting to study Engineering or Physics to a higher level.