Further Mathematics

Examination Board: Edexcel

Course Code: 9FM0

• Paper 1 Core Pure Mathematics 1

• Paper 2 Core Pure Mathematics 2

• Paper 3 Further Mechanics 1

• Paper 4 Decision 1

Entry Requirements: Grade 8 in Maths at GCSE and strong algebra skills (must be taking Maths A-level)

Why study Further Mathematics?

If you would like a real mathematical challenge that will extend your thinking beyond A level Mathematics, or if you are considering studying Mathematics, Engineering or Computer Science at university.

In Further Mathematics, the rate and difficulty of the work means everyone can expect to be challenged. Consequently, only those with a confident grasp of mathematics and the highest grades could be expected to be successful. We recommend that you are predicted a Grade 8 or 9 at GCSE.

Students studying Further Mathematics will also study and gain an A-Level in Mathematics. The structure of the course at Didcot Sixth Form means that any student studying Further Mathematics will complete the A-Level Mathematics course in Year 12 and sit the examination at the end of Year 12. They will then study the Further Mathematics course in Year 13.

What will I study?

We deliver Edexcel Further Mathematics option H. The course is divided into three areas which include studying the following topics:

• Core Pure Mathematics: Proof by induction, Complex numbers, Matrices, Further algebra and functions, Further calculus and Further Vectors.
• Core Pure Mathematics 2: Further Complex numbers – including de Moivre’s theorem, Polar coordinates, Hyperbolic functions and Differential equations.
• Further Mechanics 1: Momentum and impulse, Work energy and power, Elastic collisions in one dimension and Elastic collisions in two dimensions.
• Decision Mathematics 1: Algorithms and graph theory, Algorithms on graphs, Critical Path Analysis and Linear Programming.

How will I study?

During the A-Level course, you will encounter many new concepts and skills. These are explored and explained in lessons through a variety of activities; these activities include both group work and independent study. Questions and assessments are frequently set to consolidate learning, allowing new skills to be practised and applied. Work will be marked, and targets set for improvement of the students understanding or application mathematically. All students will be encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning and seek support both inside and outside lessons to further their progress.

How will my work be assessed?

Four exams, each 1 hour and 30 minutes, all equal weighting: Paper 1 Core Pure Mathematics 1 Paper 2 Core Pure Mathematics 2 Paper 3 Further Mechanics 1 Paper 4 Decision 1. Please note, to take this option, you must also select Mathematics A-Level alongside Further Maths. It is not possible to take Further Maths as a stand-alone option. You must also take four A-levels for the duration of Year 12.