Further Mathematics


Exam Board

Additional Entry Requirements

8 in Mathematics required
5 in English Language required
Further Mathematics can only be applied for as part of a 4 A level programme at this stage and in combination with A level Mathematics
NB. August Enrolment: Students who achieve grade 9 GCSE Mathematics, will be permitted to study Further Mathematics as part of a 3 A level programme which includes A level Mathematics.

Course Content

Why further mathematics?
 
This is a challenging qualification which both extends and deepens your knowledge and understanding beyond standard A level mathematics. It identifies you as having excellent mathematical, problem solving and analytical skills.
 
You will develop the ability to work in a team, communicate effectively and show initiative. If you are planning to take a degree such as engineering, sciences, computing, finance/economics or especially maths itself, you will benefit enormously from taking this course, as it introduces new topics such as matrices and complex numbers that are vital in many STEM degrees. Indeed, some prestigious university courses require further maths.
 
We provide opportunities to hear from engaging speakers with mathematical backgrounds, both on site and at external lectures, in addition to trips to mathematical shows and events. We have an experienced team of enthusiastic teachers, who provide excellent support and inspiration to students.
 
Course content
 
You’ll develop and extend your understanding, apply skills learnt in a range of situations, and encounter new concepts, including topics such as matrices, complex numbers, differential equations and hyperbolic functions. In addition to the pure mathematics half of the course, there are options involving more mechanics (where you will study areas including circular motion, variable forces, energy and kinematics) or more statistics (where you will meet and interact with more advanced probability scenarios, statistical distributions and hypothesis testing), or decision mathematics (algorithms, linear programming and graph theory) or further pure.
 
 
Mark scheme
 
Exam - 1 hour 30 mins - 25%
75 marks
 
Paper 1: Core Pure Mathematics 1
 
Exam - 1 hour 30 mins - 25%
75 marks
 
Paper 2: Core Pure Mathematics 2
 
Exam - 1 hour 30 mins - 25%
75 marks
 
Paper 3: Option 1
Further Pure Mathematics 1, Further Statistics 1, Further Mechanics 1 or Decision Mathematics 1
 
Exam - 1 hour 30 mins - 25%
75 marks
 
Paper 4: Option 2
Further Pure Mathematics 2, Further Statistics 2, Further Mechanics 2 or Decision Mathematics 2
 
 
 
 
DAVID
St Thomas More Catholic School
 
"What I enjoy about further maths is the application of concepts, that are seemingly useless, to solve realistic problems. I chose to study it as I had always been interested in studying maths at a higher level and it works perfectly into a future career in computer science.
 
Word of mouth was definitely a big factor for me in coming to Woodhouse. Hearing about its success, having a sister that had been here before and having a lot of friends that were set on coming here convinced me it was an environment where I could succeed.
 
I like the freedom. It is a surprisingly easy transition from school to being here and the independence is a good precursor to university - or just further life."
 
 
 
SUMAYA
The Archer Academy
 
"I enjoy having the freedom to think of my own ideas when tackling challenges and being able to come up with multiple strategies to reach the same answer. In addition, I enjoy participating in class discussions over difficult problems, and comparing different problem-solving techniques.
 
I am interested in pursuing a career within technology or academia and further maths helps me keep my options open, while creating a solid foundation for STEM related careers.
 
I choose Woodhouse because it is a high achieving college with lots of students studying many different subjects with different combinations. I like that it has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with like-minded high achievers to discuss schoolwork with and to motivate each other."
 
 
 
DESANGE
St Thomas More Catholic School
 
"I really enjoy doing complex questions, like complex numbers, that make me struggle. As a student who wants to study computer science - maths and further maths are crucial.
 
I chose Woodhouse because of the freedom it provides and all the great teachers here. I love the environment and how everyone is really friendly." 


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