Subject Intent: Why Mathematics?
Studying A-level Mathematics encourages learners to think and act mathematically, using mathematical skills and forms of communication to analyse situations within mathematics and elsewhere. Mathematics underpins all areas of our lives and studying Mathematics allows students to think logically and break complex problems into smaller steps.
The course emphasises how mathematical ideas are interconnected and demonstrates how mathematics can be applied to model situations using algebra and other representations, to help make sense of data, to understand the physical world and to solve problems in a variety of contexts, including social sciences and business.
Having the skills from Mathematics makes students employable in virtually all careers as it blends communication and problem solving skills together. It also prepares learners for a wide range of destinations in higher education and employment as all of the skills taught in A-level Mathematics are transferable in to higher education and the work place.
What will I study?
The course will include:
- Proof
- Algebra and functions
- Coordinate geometry
- Sequences and series
- Trigonometry
- Exponentials and logarithms
- Calculus
- Numerical methods
- Statistics and probability (including data, probability, binomial and normal distributions, and hypothesis testing)
- Mechanics (including vectors, kinematics, Newton’s laws, and moments)
Mathematics
Please note: Subject videos have been filmed from colleges across our Trust.
What are lessons like in this subject?
Lessons start with retrieval practice: previous topics taught are consolidated using quizzes, skills tests, or exam questions. Exemplar models are worked through in the lesson to introduce new topics. Time is allocated to practising skills and application in problem solving. Students are encouraged to engage in discussion to deepen their knowledge. Mini whiteboards, card matching activities, interactive resources and web sites are used in lessons.
Students become proficient in the use of a graphical calculator. Activities such as sketching graphs, solving simultaneous equations, carrying out statistical calculations and much more are performed in lessons on their calculator.
Mathematics enrichment is on offer throughout the year. Examples include university trips to Mathematics departments to experience Mathematics lectures and student life; the opportunity to participate in the senior Mathematics challenge and team Mathematics challenge annually; and guest lecturers and speakers are invited into college to give inspiring Mathematics talks.
What our
students
Studying Mathematics at New College Doncaster has been a really fun, engaging experience. The work can be tough, but all the help the teachers offer has truly made the subject a lot more accessible and I have really enjoyed my time studying here!
Lucy Dixon, The Hayfield School
