Mathematics

GCSE Mathematics

Mathematics is the formulation and application of numerical and abstract concepts. Students build on basic numeracy skills to learn more advanced mathematical procedures and how to apply them. They develop a feel for numbers, learn to carry out calculations and understand the significance of the results obtained. Mathematics is a vital tool in professions such as Accountancy, Architecture, Engineering, Economics, Medicine, Music and Finance as well as being one of the key qualifications for access to Further and Higher Education. Employers hold this qualification in high esteem.

The Specification

EDEXCEL Mathematics 1MA1 – The scheme of assessment consists of two tiers: Foundation and Higher. Foundation Tier assesses grades 1 to 5 and Higher Tier assesses grades 4 – 9 (3
allowed). There are three equally weighted written examination papers at Foundation or Higher Tier.

Assessment

1 MA1 | non calculator paper | 90 mins 33.3%
1 MA1/2 | calculator paper | 90 mins 33.3%
1 MA1/2 | calculator paper | 90 mins 33.3%
The course varies in breadth and complexity according to the tier and covers:

Number
Four operations, decimals, fractions, indices, highest common factor, lowest common multiple, standard form, ratio, percentages, compound measures, estimation, rounding, upper and lower bounds, recurring decimals to fractions, listing strategies.

Algebra
Using formulae, surds, expanding and factorising, solving quadratics by factorising and formula, indices, changing subject, inverse and composite functions, proof, y = mx + c, equation of line through two points or one point given gradient, parallel and perpendicular lines, cubic, quadratic, reciprocal, power and trig graphs, completing square, linear equations, simultaneous equations, linear inequalities, regions, iteration, squares, cubes, triangular numbers, linear and quadratic sequences,

Ratio, proportion and rates of change
Compound units (density, pressure), ratio, percentages, percentage change, reverse percentages, direct and inverse proportion, linear area and volume ratio, gradients of tangents as rates of change / acceleration, area as distance in speed time graphs, exponential growth and decay.

Geometry and measures
Angles, polygons, constructions, properties of quadrilaterals, congruency, similarity, Pythagoras’ Theorem, rotations, reflections, translations, enlargements, circle theorems, plans, elevations, bearings, areas of plane shapes, circles, surface area and volume of prisms spheres cones cylinders, sectors, trigonometry, sine and cosine rule, vectors.

Probability
Listings, relative frequencies, Venn diagrams, contingency tables, tree diagrams, conditional probability, sample spaces.

Statistics
Random and stratified sampling, frequency polygons, pie charts, histograms, cumulative frequency, mean of frequency distributions, quartiles, box plots, correlation.