Further Mathematics
Course content, structure & method of assessment
Further Mathematics is designed for students with an enthusiasm for mathematics, many of whom will go on to degrees in mathematics, engineering, the sciences and economics.
The qualification is deeper and broader than A level Mathematics. A level Further Mathematics builds from GCSE and A level Mathematics. As well as building on algebra and calculus introduced in A level Mathematics, the core content introduces complex numbers and matrices, fundamental ideas with wide applications in engineering, physical sciences and computing. The non-core contents includes different options that can enable students to specialise in areas of mathematics that are particularly relevant to their interests and future aspirations. A level Further Mathematics prepares students for further study and employment in highly mathematical disciplines that require knowledge and understanding of sophisticated mathematical ideas and techniques.
Why study A level Further Mathematics?
If you wish to follow:
- An engineering course
- A maths related degree
- Any medical course
- Any science related course
- Accountancy/economics
Method of assessment
Year 12 Further Mathematics: Assessment is by two exams of 1 hour 30 mins.
- Paper 1 (80 marks) Content – pure mathematics: complex numbers, matrices, further algebra, further calculus, further vectors, polar coordinates and hyperbolic functions.
- Paper 2 (80 marks, two sections of 40 marks): discrete and mechanics: discrete content; networks and graphs including travelling salesperson problems and Chinese postman problems, network flows, linear programming, critical path analysis, game theory, introducing group theory. Mechanics content – dimensional analysis, momentum and collisions, work power and energy and circular motion.
Year 13 Further Mathematics: Assessment is by three exams of 2 hours in duration.
- Paper 1: (100 marks): Content – pure mathematics: proof, complex numbers, matrices, further algebra, further calculus, further vectors, polar coordinates, hyperbolic functions, differential equations, trigonometry, numerical methods and coordinate geometry are examinable.
- Paper 2: as above for paper 1
- Paper 3: (100 marks; two sections 50 marks each): Discrete and Mechanics: Discrete content – further networks and graphs, further network flows including augmenting flows, upper and lower capacities, further linear programming including simplex algorithm, further critical path analysis including Gantt charts, further game theory, further group theory. Mechanics content – moments including sliding versus toppling, centre of mass, further circular motion.
