Mathematics and Further Mathematics
The full specification can be found here:
What is the subject about? The mathematics you have already studied at GCSE or International GCSE is taken to a much deeper level. It is an extremely challenging course but hugely exciting and rewarding for those who have a natural aptitude for the discipline and creativity that the subject demands. Why might I choose to study mathematics? You may choose mathematics because you know it is likely to help you with what you want to do later. For example, many science, engineering and economics degree courses require A-level mathematics. You may choose it because you are aware that it is an excellent training of the mind for anybody and is therefore highly regarded by all universities and employers. You may choose it quite simply because you enjoy it for its own sake. However, you must be very good at mathematics if you are to cope and enjoy the challenge. Experience shows that pupils who do not get an 8 or above at GCSE or International GCSE find it extremely difficult to succeed at A-level mathematics. Anyone who is not very confident of securing a grade 8 or higher at GCSE or International GCSE should seek advice before committing to this course. Why might I choose to study further mathematics? If you love mathematics and you are very strong at it, you may choose to do the further mathematics course in addition to mathematics, this course builds on the mathematics course, by studying the pure, mechanics and statistics elements of mathematics in more detail and to a higher level. Normally you will have achieved a grade 9 at GCSE or International GCSE and you may also have done an additional mathematics qualification. The courses are taught simultaneously, but you will cover most of the mathematics A-level content in the Lower Sixth and further mathematics A-level content in the Upper Sixth. Both qualifications are examined at the end of the Upper Sixth. As well as being an excellent intellectual challenge, this course is invaluable for anyone applying to the top universities to study mathematics, engineering, physical science courses or economics. Success in further mathematics A-level marks you out as a person of rare intellectual talent. How will I be examined? We study the OCR B (MEI) A-level mathematics and A-level further mathematics courses. The mathematics course is examined with three 2-hour papers in the Summer term of the Upper Sixth year. The first paper will examine pure mathematics and mechanics; the second, pure mathematics and statistics; and the third, pure mathematics including a comprehension section. The further mathematics course is also examined with three papers in the Summer term of the Upper Sixth year. The first paper is a 2-hour 40-minute pure paper, worth 50% of the total A-level; the second paper is a 2-hour 15-minute mechanics paper worth 33 1 / 3 % of the total A-level, and the third paper is a 1-hour 15-minute statistics paper worth 16 2 / 3 % of the total A-level.
https://ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/ mathematics-b-mei-h630-h640-from-2017/ https://ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/ further-mathematics-b-mei-h635-h645-from-2017/
Dr P J Langman Head of Mathematics
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES
French
What is the subject about? The A-level course is an enjoyable, lively and varied
experience. You will continue with the familiar skills learnt at GCSE, that is to say speaking, reading, listening and writing, but the topics covered are aimed to stimulate and educate, and to add to your understanding of the language and country: evolving society; political, intellectual and artistic culture; social issues and trends; immigration and multiculturalism; the occupation and resistance. You will be given an introduction to various aspects of French culture, including books, short stories, films and aspects of civilisation and history. A solid grounding in grammar will ensure that you feel comfortable and confident through to A-level and university language courses. You will have a half hour session per week with the assistante discussing a broad range of current issues to develop your confidence and fluency. The many multi-media resources available offer exciting support material and you will spend regular lessons in the digital language laboratory. There will be ample opportunity to participate in visits and cultural events. You will be expected to take part in the College’s French exchange to Nîmes in order to develop oral confidence and to experience French- speaking family and school life. You will be offered guidance and advice on all of these activities. Why might I choose to study French at A-level? No one can doubt the importance of languages in our increasingly international world. Whatever field of work you are considering, the ability to offer a modern foreign language could set you apart from other candidates. With France as our closest European nation, the world’s favourite holiday destination and a leading cultural and political force, and with French as a major international language, spoken in over 50 countries, this subject would seem to complement perfectly any other A-level course. It should appeal not only to specialists, but to those (for example scientists, mathematicians, artists and musicians) seeking a contrasting course to broaden their range of subjects and to impress university admissions officers. You will develop a wide range of skills, such as problem solving strategies, writing coherently, critical thinking, creativity and independence, while adding an international dimension to your choice of subjects. It is also the very best way of convincing employers that you have the excellent communication skills required in so many careers and will provide you with greater opportunities for work and study abroad, as well as increased opportunities to work with companies in the UK with international links.
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