Further Mathematics provides a great opportunity for enthusiastic mathematicians to broaden and deepen their subject knowledge. It is for those students who love mathematics and want to devote more time to studying wider aspects of the subject. Topics studied on this course include complex numbers and matrices. Complex numbers allow the solution of a range of equations, which would otherwise have no solutions, through the introduction of imaginary numbers. Matrices consist of grids of numbers, which can be used to represent transformations and are used to solve simultaneous equations amongst many other things. Other areas of Pure Mathematics are included such as polar co-ordinates, differential equations and hyperbolic functions. Each of these builds on earlier topics and encourages the development of a wider understanding of the ways in which mathematical topics are interconnected. Further Mathematics provides the opportunity to study the applications of mathematics in more detail. Decision Mathematics and Further Mechanics are covered.
Teaching and Learning Methods
Students will be taught by specialist teachers and experience a wide variety of lesson activities such as investigation, group tasks and individual study. Students are expected to complete frequent wider study tasks and are assessed on a regular basis.
Assessment
The course is assessed by four external exams at the end of Year 13.
Careers Insight
Further Mathematics A-level is an excellent precursor to a Mathematics or Physics degree and indeed may be a required subject at some universities for these courses. In addition past students have gone on to study Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics, Geography, Music amongst other subjects. The employment opportunities for mathematicians are many and varied, with graduates going on to work in most sectors including education, engineering and finance.
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