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Common Structure Across All Boards:
Two-year course (Years 12-13)
Usually split into Pure Mathematics and Applied Mathematics
Typically assessed through 3 exam papers
No coursework component
Graded A* to E
Pearson Edexcel Pure Mathematics content:
Two papers (Pure Mathematics 1 & 2)
Each 2 hours, 100 marks
Topics include: algebra, functions, calculus, trigonometry, sequences
Applied Mathematics:
One paper combining Statistics and Mechanics
2 hours, 100 marks
Statistics: sampling, probability, distributions
Mechanics: kinematics, forces, moments
AQA Structure:
Paper 1: Pure Mathematics & Mechanics
Paper 2: Pure Mathematics & Statistics
Paper 3: Pure Mathematics with optional applications All papers 2 hours, 100 marks each
Content emphasis:
Strong focus on algebraic methods
Detailed coverage of calculus
Practical applications in statistics
Real-world mechanics problems
OCR A Three papers:
Pure Mathematics (41.7%)
Pure Mathematics & Statistics (29.2%)
Pure Mathematics & Mechanics (29.2%) Each 2 hours, mixture of long/short questions
OCR B (MEI) Distinctive features:
More emphasis on technology use
Focus on modeling
Greater emphasis on practical applications
Similar overall structure to OCR A but different approach
Common Pure Mathematics Content (All Boards):
Algebra and Functions
Quadratics
Polynomials
Graph transformations
Partial fractions
Coordinate Geometry
Straight lines
Circles
Parametric equations
Sequences and Series
Arithmetic
Geometric
Binomial expansion
Trigonometry
Radians
Trigonometric functions
Equations and identities
Exponentials and Logarithms
Natural logarithms
Laws of logarithms
Applications
Differentiation
Chain rule
Product rule
Quotient rule
Applications
Integration
Definite integrals
Substitution
Parts
Applications
Applied Mathematics Components:
Statistics:
Data presentation
Probability
Statistical distributions
Hypothesis testing
Correlation and regression
Mechanics:
Kinematics
Forces and Newton's laws
Moments
Projectiles
Friction
Key Differences Between Boards:
Question style
Context of applications
Order of topics
Assessment structure
Calculator requirements
Additional resources provided
Mark scheme approaches
Support and Resources:
Textbooks specific to each board
Online teaching resources
Past papers and mark schemes
Teacher training
Student revision guides
Online platforms and tools
Further Mathematics A-Level:
Additional qualification
More advanced content
Often required by top universities
Different options/modules available
Can be taken alongside standard Mathematics A-Level
Assessment Format:
Written examinations only
Mix of short and long questions
Some boards provide formula books
Graphical calculators usually allowed
Multiple choice sections in some papers
The choice of exam board often depends on:
School's previous experience
Teaching staff expertise
Available resources
Student demographic
University requirements
Local support networks
This qualification is crucial for:
University entrance (especially STEM subjects)
Career prospects
Mathematical skill development
Problem-solving abilities
Analytical thinking