Syllabus = Edexcel 1387 MATHEMATICS

Mathematics is the study of patterns abstracted from the world around us, so anything we learn in the subject has many applications - in arts, sciences, finance, health and leisure. It has been described as "the Queen and Servant" of Science and lies at the core of scientific understanding, and of logical thought or argument. The study of almost any scientific subject will inevitably involve Mathematics. Hence, it is an invaluable preparation for careers in the areas of Science, Engineering, Computing, Medicine, Business, Finance and Accountancy.

Most further education courses require a G.C.S.E. grade of C or better in Mathematics, even those where Mathematics will not obviously be used at all in the course. Mathematics is a subject where the more you put into it, the more you are likely to enjoy it. Attempting questions is the key to successful learning; reading through your notes or the textbook is not sufficient.

The course covers the following areas :

· Using and Applying Mathematics - counts for 20% of the G.C.S.E. mark
· Number and algebra - counts for 40% of the G.C.S.E. mark.
· Shape and Space (Geometry and Trigonometry) - counts for 20% of the G.C.S.E. mark.
· Data Handling - counts for 20% of the G.C.S.E. mark

From the summer of 2009 there will be no assessed coursework and you will be assessed solely through terminal examinations which count for 100% of the GCSE mark. You will sit two papers in June 2009, one calculator and one non-calculator paper.

The subject can be entered at one of two levels (Foundation, or Higher), with increasing content at each level.

· The Foundation Tier is aimed at those who find the subject difficult. There is less content than at any other level, with grades C to G being available.

· The Higher Tier is very demanding and is aimed at grades A* to D. Students in set A will usually be studying towards this tier of entry.

Entry at the correct tier is important because any marks below the minimum level would lead to an unclassified result. A decision as to your level of entry will be made in your final year.

Please note that for those taking their GCSE exams in the summer of 2009, coursework will no longer be used as a means of assessment at GCSE. However, small pieces of coursework may be set from time to time to assist pupils in understanding and applying some material.

If you want to take an A level course in the subject you need a G.C.S.E. grade B or better to be successful.