Mathematics

Course summary

The main reason for studying mathematics to an advanced level is that it is interesting and enjoyable. Students like its challenge, its clarity, and the fact that you know when you are right. The A-Level mathematics provides not only the generic skills highly sought after by employers but also the mathematical knowledge specifically required for certain careers. Mathematics is about logical analysis, deduction, calculation and has a pervasive influence on our everyday lives. The Mathematics A-Level covers: • Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry; sequences and series; differentiation and integration (calculus); trigonometry; logarithms and exponentials; vectors; numerical methods and other methods which can be used to solve realworld problems. • Mechanics – the study of forces and motion, as revolutionised by Isaac Newton, which allows predictions to be made about how objects behave in the real world, from the motion of the planets, to a projectile flying through the air. • Statistics – the study of (and search for) patterns in data, how data can be analysed and used to model real world situations and probability theory can be used to make predictions, identify trends and find the hidden evidenc in situations. Statistics is the most widely-used of all mathematical applications.