GCSE Mathematics
All students are required to study Mathematics in Years 10 and 11. Not only is it an interesting and stimulating subject in its own right, but it also supports other subjects, especially Science, Geography, Business Studies and Technology. You will need the best qualification in Mathematics that you can achieve as you need to prove to future employers that you are numerate, in other words, that you can handle numbers.
The Mathematics course follows on directly from work done in Years 7,8 and 9 and is divided into three modules. In Year 10 students will take module 1 in November and Module 2 in June. Module 1 is worth 18%, Module 2 is worth 27% and the most important module is Module 3 which is worth 55% of the whole GCSE. There will be no coursework in Mathematics.
The levels are:
- Higher (H) leading to GCSE grades A* to D, which can lead towards 'A' level Mathematics
- Foundation (F) leading to GCSE grades C to G.
Directions at Post 16
Post 16 ‘A’ Level Mathematics builds on all topics taken on the higher GCSE course and also introduces calculus, a higher level of algebra, and further statistical work. Further Mathematics is also available, and this includes both Decision Mathematics and Mechanics. Those of you who might go on to do an BTEC in Engineering and Business Studies will find that the Mathematics you will need will build on the Foundation GCSE course.
Routes after Post 16
Post 16 Mathematics will open up many areas for degree courses such as Mathematics itself, all branches of Engineering, Medicine and all Sciences, especially Physics. It may not occur to you that a qualification in Mathematics could also take you into less obvious courses such as Law, Business Management and Economics. The universities regard Mathematics as a sound basis for most degree courses, as it gives an insight into problem solving activities.
Please contact Mr Wardell for further information.