GCSE Mathematics
(End of Year 11 Exam)
SUBJECT DESCRIPTION
Mathematics is an exciting subject that is used in a huge variety of professions and industries. We follow the Edexcel syllabus at GCSE which is assessed at Higher and Foundation level and it is studied in six topic areas: Number, Algebra, Geometry, Measures, Statistics and Probability.
Throughout the course, students learn efficient calculator techniques as well as developing their non-calculator procedures in order to estimate and check answers. Students develop logical thought processes to solve problems and are encouraged to show their method clearly, extending knowledge to incorporate algebraic manipulation and geometrical theorems in addition to sophisticated analysis of statistical tables. This subject is highly regarded for Higher Education and lends itself to many career opportunities.
COURSE CONTENT & STRUCTURE
GCSE Mathematics is taken at the end of Year 11 and each tier of entry consists of 2 exams. One paper permits a calculator and the other is a non-calculator paper. There is no controlled assessment.
We recommend all students have and use a scientific calculator (Casio fx-83 or similar) as soon as possible, to allow them work become familiar with their calculator.
SKILLS DEVELOPED AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Mathematics will enable students to develop skills such as problem solving, logic, data handling, spatial awareness, accuracy and good communication. Students become more aware of the importance of mathematics in their everyday lives.
A good mathematical background is necessary for all walks of life. Further, there are examples of Mathematics Careers: Computers: Perhaps the most popular and among the most lucrative jobs for mathematicians is in the computer industry. Since computer programming is very mathematical, it makes sense that many mathematicians do very well in it.
Engineering: Your training in mathematics will prepare you to quickly learn the specific issues in a new field, and your creative problem solving skills will be a strong asset to the engineering firm.
Biotech: There has been a great deal of interest in mathematical biology because of many recent breakthroughs in studying DNA and proteins. Many biotech companies hire mathematicians because of the high (and growing) mathematical content of the field.
Cryptography: From the Secret Service to a smaller company doing commerce on the web, the demand for mathematicians that can understand the number-theoretic issues in cryptography is great.
Actuary: Among the highest-paid professions are actuaries, who compute the statistics behind life insurance other tables of predictive data.
Finance: Most financial companies hire mathematicians to study financial models and make predictions based on statistical evidence.
Management: Management consulting firms look for individuals who can quickly find the root of a problem, and find creative and effective solutions, and critically choose from among many options.