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Maths at Key Stage 5

Post 16, Stoke Newington offer A Levels in Mathematics and Further Mathematics as well as a Core Maths qualification. Mathematics is the most popular subject to study post 16 at the school, with almost half of the students in the sixth form choosing to study mathematics in some form. As a very sought-after qualification, the study of mathematics demonstrates that you have the ability to think logically, are numerate and can solve problems analytically. Most importantly, students who continue to study mathematics at Stoke Newington enjoy the subject and this love of mathematics sees them through what can be a demanding course.

A level students study two pure mathematics modules, in which GCSE topics such as algebra, trigonometry and coordinate geometry are explored at a higher level. New topics such as calculus will also be introduced. Many of the topics in pure mathematics are interesting in their own right, but they are also an important foundation for other branches of mathematics. Students also study one applied module which involves the study of both mechanics and statistics. Mechanics applies mathematics to physical problems and examines topics such as the motion of objects and how they respond to the action of forces. Students also learn the technique of mathematical modelling which turns a complicated physical problem into a simpler one that can be analysed and solved using mathematical methods. Statistics is about the collection, analysis, interpretation and presentation of data. Students also explore probability that can be used, for example, to demonstrate why most gambling games are a very poor bet. You will also formulate, test and evaluate hypotheses. The Mathematics A level will be assessed on three (two pure and one applied including statistics and mechanics) 2 hour exams all of which will be weighted as 33.3% in the calculation of the final grade awarded.

The department also offers an A Level in Further Mathematics for students who wish to explore the subject in more depth. Study includes looking at complex numbers, polar coordinates and advanced calculus. Further Mathematics is becoming an increasingly desirable qualification for some degree courses in Engineering, Natural Science and Economics and is a prerequisite for many mathematical degrees. Students studying the Further Mathematics option have twice the teaching time allocated. Students need to complete four examinations to complete the Further Maths A level. Students are required to do two Core Further Mathematics modules plus a choice of one of the four additional modules from: further pure maths 1 and 2, further mechanics 1 and 2, further statistics 1 and 2 or decision maths 1 and 2. All students in the group take the same modules. This is decided by the group by the end of Year 12. Each exam is 90 minutes and counts for 25% of the marks.

Core Maths refers to a level 3 maths qualification that can be taken alongside A levels or other qualifications. It is developed with support from employers and higher education and is designed to:

  • Consolidate and build on mathematical understanding
  • Foster the ability to think mathematically and apply mathematical techniques in unfamiliar situations with confidence
  • Support students’ learning in other subject areas they are studying
  • Prepare students for the range of real-life mathematical demands of further study and employment

It is aimed at students with a Grade 5 or above in GCSE Mathematics, who wish to continue studying the subject post 16 but who do not want to take A level Mathematics. It carries the same UCAS points as an AS level and is graded A-E.

Year 12 and Year 13 curriculum maps