Further Mathematics

Further Mathematics is an additional A-Level beyond the standard A-Level mathematics. You must study A-Level Mathematics if you wish to study Further Mathematics.

GCSE Entrance Requirements:

  • Mathematics - Grade 7

  • English Language - Grade 5

More info:

Combines well with

In order to study for this course it is mandatory to study A-Level Mathematics

Head of Department:

Mr R Brewer - rbrewer@hswv.co.uk

WHAT YOU STUDY

New topics are introduced, such as Complex Numbers, Polar Co-ordinates, Co-ordinate Systems, Hyperbolic Functions, and Matrices. These extend understanding of the subject, and enhance topics already met on the A-Level Mathematics course such as Calculus and its applications, Vectors and Proof.

The course consists of three parts:

  • Mathematical processes

  • Core pure content

  • Major options (Mechanics/Statistics)

HOW YOU STUDY

Most of the course follows the same format as that for A-Level Mathematics – a mixture of teacher exposition, plenty of practice and assessment via classwork, homework and standard assessments. External assessments at the end of the course consist of three papers:

  • Core Pure (mandatory) – 67%

  • Major Option – 33%

Further Mathematics students tend to be those who have already achieved high grades at GCSE and have the potential to do so at A-Level. They are expected to develop their mathematical skills beyond the classroom with determined independent study - a similar expectation to that of students at university.

DEPARTMENT STRENGTHS AND RESOURCES

The mathematics department has a number of staff who teach Further Mathematics. This is an ideal climate in which to learn Further Mathematics.

Text books will also be available for each module.

PROGRESSION TO UNIVERSITY/CAREERS

Whilst many universities do not make Further Mathematics a compulsory entry requirement for Mathematics degrees, many of the more academic ones (Russell Group universities) would expect students to have Further Mathematics A- Level.

Further Mathematics is also an ideal second Mathematics A-Level for students who wish to pursue Science and Engineering courses.

The choice of potential careers for mathematicians is vast (and generally well paid!). These range from accountancy, manufacturing design, teaching, research work (e.g. For energy companies) to computer games design.

OUR SUCCESSES

Further Mathematics students are usually amongst those who achieve the highest A-Level grades (A*) in Mathematics as well as Further Mathematics. Many of these have been successful in gaining places at Russell Group universities (including Oxford and Cambridge) to read Mathematics or associated subjects.