A Level Further Maths
The mathematician does not study pure mathematics because it is useful; he studies it because he delights in it and he delights in it because it is beautiful.
Georg Cantor
Exam Board
AQA
Why should I study Further Mathematics?
Students taking Further Mathematics overwhelmingly find it an enjoyable, rewarding and stimulating experience. This is an excellent choice if you want to study an academically rigorous qualification and stretch and challenge yourself significantly beyond standard A Level mathematics. Students who choose it almost always say it is their favourite subject! It will also help make the transition from A Level to a mathematically rich degree course like mathematics, engineering, science, computing, finance or economics easier because more of the course will be familiar. Even if you only study to AS Level you will still benefit enormously as topics like matrices and complex numbers are vital in many degrees. Choosing this subject takes up two of your A level options as further mathematics must be taught alongside A Level mathematics.
What will I study?
As well as exploring new and more sophisticated areas of pure mathematics, you will study further applications in mechanics, statistics and decision mathematics. You will extend your knowledge of both pure and applied mathematics. A minimum of 50% of the course is pure mathematics and you will learn about proof, complex numbers, matrices, further algebra and functions, further calculus, further vectors, polar coordinates, hyperbolic functions and differential equations. You will then be able to select options from more pure mathematics, further mechanics, further statistics and decision mathematics. Decision mathematics is a branch of mathematics not covered in the single A level; it focuses on solving real life problems using a variety of algorithms. You will study critical path analysis, linear programming and algorithms such as Prim’s, Kruskal’s, Dijkstra’s and Floyd’s.
How is the further Mathematics course delivered?
You will complete weekly online tutorials with university lecturers after school, who will set and assess assignments regularly. You will also be supported through timetabled tutorials with specialist DACA maths teachers.
How is A Level further Mathematics assessed?
Four 90-minute examinations at the end of Year 13: two on pure mathematics and two on options (further pure mathematics, statistics, mechanics or decision mathematics). You are allowed a calculator in all exams. There is no coursework.
What can I study with further Mathematics?
Many students choose further mathematics (with mathematics) alongside physics, chemistry or computer science. However, as a rigorous A level qualification it complements all other subjects.
Where does a qualification in further Mathematics lead?
Studying further mathematics at A level and beyond equips you with transferable problem solving and logical thinking skills that are valued by employers in all fields of the economy. It will provide you with excellent preparation for a wide range of mathematically rich degree courses. Some universities, such as Cambridge and Warwick, will also require you to have it for entry to certain courses. Mathematics graduates have one of the highest rates of employment and work in a very wide range of industries.
Subject specific entry requirement:
Grade 7 in maths, although an 8 or 9 is preferred.
DACA Further Mathematics Alumni:
Name: Jade
High School: DACA
Subjects: Maths , Further Maths, Chemistry and AS Physics
Currently enjoying reading Mathematics at Bristol University.