Further Mathematics
"Further Mathematics is full of challenging ideas and questions; of course, this is what makes it so enjoyable and satisfying. “It is impossible to be a mathematician without being a poet in soul.” Sofia Kovalevskaya
OCR A Level in Further Mathematics B (MEI) is both deeper and broader than A Level Mathematics. It is designed for students with a real enthusiasm for Mathematics.
As well as building on the algebra and calculus introduced in A Level Mathematics, the A Level Further Mathematics core content introduces complex numbers and matrices, fundamental mathematical ideas with wide applications in mathematics, engineering, physical sciences and computing. Choosing Further Mathematics means that you do a double A Level course in Mathematics requiring you to commit to continuing with four A Levels.
Skills Required
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. If you are considering the Further Mathematics course you must not only be very able in Mathematics, but also have a great commitment and enjoyment of the subject.
Topics Covered
Over the two year course, students will study the following:
Pure Maths
- Matrices, inverses and transformations
- Complex numbers and geometry
- Roots of polynomials
- Vectors and planes in 3D space
- Proof (including induction)
- Polar coordinates
- Maclaurin series and summing series
- Hyperbolic functions
- Further integration
- First and second order differential equations
Mechanics:
- Dimensional analysis
- Forces
- Work, energy and power
- Momentum and impulse
- Centre of mass
Statistics:
- Sampling
- Discrete random variables
- Poisson and geometric distributions
- Bivariate data and correlation
- Chi-squared tests
Students may also take the option to study other areas such as algorithms, linear programming, group theory, recurrence relations, eigenvectors and multivariable calculus.
Methods of Assessment
The qualification comprises of one mandatory Core Pure examination of two hours and forty minutes which makes up 50% of the total marks. The non-core content includes different options that can enable students to specialise in areas of mathematics that are particularly relevant to their interests and future aspirations. These include additional mechanics, statistics or pure options as well as numerical methods and modelling with algorithms. Candidates have the choice of one major and one minor optional paper or three minor papers giving them the choice between breadth or depth.
Meet the Staff
If you have a specific enquiry for the Mathematics Department, email maths@kes.hants.sch.uk
|
Mr. G.A. Eyssens |
Head of Mathematics |
|
Mrs. C.S. Asiki |
Second in Mathematics |
|
Mrs. J.A. Thimbleby |
Second in Mathematics |
|
Mr. S.E. Barley |
Mathematics, Head of Watts |
|
Ms. C.L. Dolan |
Mathematics |
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Mrs. L.M. Matthews |
Mathematics |
|
Mr. R.P. Nichols |
Mathematics |
|
Miss. E.S. Ridley |
Mathematics |
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Mr. P.R. Robinson |
Mathematics |
|
Mr. I. Rosenburg BEd |
Mathematics, Head of Year - Upper School |
|
Mr. M.P. Willis BEd |
Mathematics |
