Mathematics (EDX)

AS Course Outline

What is Mathematics?

Mathematics is a system that arose thousands of years ago to classify and to quantify. From these simple counting systems, mathematics has evolved to provide a remarkable tool for describing the world around us. It is of vital importance in the sciences, economics, business, computing and the social sciences such as psychology.

Statistics helps us to understand circumstances as diverse as variation in biology and the stock market. Mechanics enables us to build skyscrapers, bridges and ever more advanced transportation. Pure mathematics provides all the techniques for these 'applied' theories, whilst taking your understanding of numeracy and algebra that little bit further.

Above all, mathematics is a challenging, rewarding and mentally stimulating activity, enjoyable in its own right.

What Skills Will Students Develop When Studying AS Level Mathematics?

AS Level mathematics extends the approach of GCSE and challenges students to think on a more rigorous basis. The student will be expected to solve problems with many stages, planning out and working their way to solutions neatly and concisely. A strong algebraic vein runs through the course. Starting off with linear and quadratic equations, the course builds up to analyse 'general polynomials' with higher powers of x. All the fundamental functions of mathematics will be introduced. Trigonometry from GSCE will be built upon to find multiple answers. A different measure of angle is introduced and a new and powerful algebraic technique called calculus is introduced.

In the applied module, students will develop a sense of mathematics as a tool for modelling the real world. They are made aware of the reasons for, as well as the restrictions of, mathematical models. Students learn to form, analyse and solve equations based on their model and interpret results in a variety of contexts.

In mechanics, Newton's equations of force and motion, equilibrium and vectors are the main fields of study. Statistics expands on the probability studied at GCSE as well as correlation, and formalises the idea of a line of best fit. New concepts are introduced, such as the normal distribution, which is a distribution of results that is found throughout the natural world.

The academic study of mathematics teaches logic and problem solving skills that you can transfer far from the classroom. Mathematics is highly respected AS level and a prerequisite for many degree courses including sciences, economics and computing. A mathematics degree opens doors in fields such as management, finance, computing, research and teaching.

Mathematics (EDX) AS Specification
Unit 1 33% of AS	Core 1 (C1): Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry, arithmetic series, differentiation and integration.
Unit 2 33% of AS	Core 2 (C2): Algebra and functions, equation of a circle, geometric series, trigonometry, exponentials and logarithms, geometric interpretation of calculus.
Unit 3 33% of AS	Either Mechanics 1 (M1): Modelling physical systems, 2D vectors, motion in a straight line, Newton's laws, friction, applying vectors to 2D forces. Or Statistics 1 (S1): Statistical models, representing and summarising data, probability, correlation and regression, discrete random variables and the normal distribution.

Structure of the Course
The course will be taught for six lessons per week, as three 1½ hour double lessons. Homework is set at the end of each session and deadlines for admissions must be adhered to. A full set of notes and examination questions is provided.

Recommended Texts
Heinemann Modular Mathematics for Edexcel Various Authors Heinemann
Module books supporting each unit of the course

Additional Reading
Who do buses come in threes? Wyndham & Eastaway Robson Books
Zero: Biography of a dangerous idea Seife Souvenir Press Ltd

Fees and Dates