Further Mathematics

Course summary

Why study the subject Studying Further Mathematics offers students the opportunity to take every aspect of what they learnt on the Mathematics course to the next level. It offers the opportunity to prove more of what they have learnt, and use it in a wider range of applications. Students will also be able to study an additional area of mathematics, called Decision Mathematics, which is largely focused on logic and algorithms. This compliments areas of Computing Science, as does the new topic Matrices. Course Structure The course comprises of Core Pure Mathematics, which builds on and extends knowledge from A Level Mathematics, whilst introducing further topics such as complex numbers. A further two units are then studied from the following: Further Pure Mathematics, Decision Mathematics, Further Mechanics or Further Statistics. This decision will be based in teacher expertise but options for students to study their preferred strand could be discussed. Unit content Core Pure Mathematics • Proof • Complex Numbers • Matrices • Further Algebra and Functions • Further calculus • Further Vectors • Polar Coordinates • Hyperbolic Functions • Differential Equations Skills Acquired • Skills and knowledge development • Application of skills and knowledge to practical situations • Methods of working logically Students suited to the course Students who have all the attributes listed for the Mathematics A Level, who are also well skilled at working independently. It is vital students are willing and able to work in together, discussing and debating ideas with each other. What other subjects it combines well with This is the same as those listed for Mathematics. Career or HE the course leads to Again, this is much the same as Mathematics. Having the additional A Level will put students in a better position when applying for Mathematics courses, and ones which are focused on these skills, such as Engineering and Computer Science. Universities will often lower entry requirements for students with a Further Mathematics A Level, as students with this qualification are sought after. Co-curricular Trip and visits, Maths Challenge