AS Level Maths and A Level Maths Explained
Introduction – what are the main differences between AS Level and A Level maths?
AS Level Maths and A Level Maths are two levels of mathematics qualifications offered in many educational systems. AS Level Maths, which stands for Advanced Subsidiary Level Maths, is typically taken in the first year of advanced level studies. It serves as a foundation for A Level Maths, which is taken in the second year.
While AS Level Maths covers fundamental concepts and topics, A Level Maths provides a more comprehensive understanding of mathematics, including more advanced topics and problem-solving techniques. A Level Maths builds upon the knowledge gained in AS Level Maths and offers a deeper exploration of mathematical concepts and applications.
Do All exam boards offer AS Level exams?
The main UK exam boards are AQA, OCR, Edexcel, and WJEC. Some of these exam boards offer AS exams, while others have discontinued their AS-level qualifications.
Does my AS Level maths grade count towards my A Level maths grade?
AS maths does count towards your final A Level maths grade. By taking AS maths, you have the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and skills that can benefit you in various ways. Firstly, it provides you with a solid foundation in mathematical concepts and techniques, which can be crucial for further studies in higher-level maths. Additionally, AS maths can enhance your problem-solving abilities, logical reasoning skills, and analytical thinking, which are highly valued in many fields, including STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines.
Moreover, AS maths allows you to get a taste of what studying A Level maths entails. It helps you assess your interest and aptitude in the subject before committing to the full A Level course. This way, you can make an informed decision about whether to continue with the subject based on your performance and level of enjoyment. Furthermore, completing AS maths successfully demonstrates your dedication and commitment to academia, which can be advantageous when applying to universities or pursuing certain career paths.
While there are undeniable advantages to studying AS maths, it’s important to consider your personal goals and circumstances. If you find that AS maths is not aligning with your interests or that you prefer to focus on other subjects, it may be more beneficial to prioritize your time and efforts elsewhere. Ultimately, the choice between AS maths and the full A Level depends on your aspirations and the requirements of your desired educational or career path.
Is it possible to do A Level maths in just one academic year?
Yes, it is possible to complete A Level maths in one academic year. However, there are pros and cons to consider.
Pros:
Time efficiency: Completing A Level maths in one year allows you to finish the course quickly.
Focus: Intensive studying can help maintain focus and momentum, leading to better retention of knowledge.
Flexibility: It may open up opportunities to pursue other subjects or activities earlier.
Cons:
Intensity: Condensing the curriculum can be mentally and emotionally demanding due to the fast pace of learning.
Workload: The workload can be overwhelming, leaving less time for other subjects or extracurricular activities.
Pressure: The pressure to perform well within a short time frame might increase stress levels.
Ultimately, the decision to complete A Level maths in one year should consider personal learning capabilities, time commitment, and overall academic goals.
How has A Level maths changed since 2017?
The A Level maths exam structure and course options have undergone changes since 2017. The new A Level maths specification introduced a linear structure, meaning that all exams are taken at the end of the two-year course. The AS Level maths qualification is no longer a standalone qualification but has been transformed into a separate qualification called the Advanced Subsidiary Level (AS Level) in Maths. This means that AS Level results no longer count towards the final A Level grade.
The new A Level maths specification offers two main pathways: Mathematics and Further Mathematics. The Mathematics pathway covers core topics such as Pure Mathematics, Mechanics, and Statistics. The Further Mathematics pathway delves deeper into advanced topics like Complex Numbers, Matrices, and Differential Equations.
In terms of content, the new specification places increased emphasis on problem-solving, mathematical reasoning, and the application of mathematical techniques in real-world contexts. The reform aimed to enhance students’ mathematical skills and prepare them for higher education or employment requiring strong mathematical abilities.
Overall, the changes to A Level maths since 2017 include a linear exam structure, the transformation of AS Level into AS Level in Maths, and the introduction of two main pathways: Mathematics and Further Mathematics with a focus on problem-solving and real-world applications.