Sixth Form
Mathmatics
Mathematics is the universal language of logic, pattern, and problem-solving, empowering students to decode the complexities of nature, technology, and finance to engineer the future.
At Ryde you can study Mathematics and Further Mathematics at A Level and IBDP Mathematics.
Why study Maths at Ryde School?
Studying Mathematics and Further Mathematics at Ryde School at A Level or the International Baccalaureate (IB) offers a dynamic and intellectually exhilarating pathway for students passionate about abstract reasoning, numerical precision, and analytical challenge.
Leading to fields such as economics, data science, aerospace engineering, quantitative finance, cryptography, and artificial intelligence at degree level and beyond. Here, students do not just study mathematics; they learn to think like pioneering mathematicians and logicians, equipped with the critical thinking, rigorous reasoning, and advanced problem-solving skills needed to solve the complex technological and scientific challenges of tomorrow’s world.
Courses Available
A Level Mathematics builds on GCSE work, and is broadly split into Pure Mathematics, Statistics and Mechanics. The use of technology is encouraged, and real world applications are sought out. Relevance to the workplace or academia is evident through the recent introduction of a large data set, encountered in the course and final exams with plenty of rigorous content to learn within the Pure Maths sections. Studying Further Mathematics alongside the single A Level will allow for deeper exploration and should be considered by anyone contemplating studying Mathematics or related subjects at university.
Entry Requirements
Mathematics – Grade 7 or above at GCSE, whilst in exceptional cases a Grade 6 may be considered.
Further Mathematics – Grade 8 or above at GCSE with some evidence of extension work beyond the GCSE.
Award
A LEVEL EDEXCEL Mathematics
Course Content/Structure
Mathematics at this level is designed to develop students’ powers of understanding and deduction as well as resourcefulness in solving problems. It appeals to those with a curiosity about numbers, patterns and ideas that have the power to solve real problems.
Approximately two thirds of the course is Pure Mathematics, mostly algebra, calculus and trigonometry – although at this level a common feature is the blurring of lines between different disciplines. The remaining third is split evenly between Statistics and Mechanics, with many topics and skills being transferable to a number of other subjects.
Assessment
Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1
Paper 2: Pure Mathematics 2
Paper 3: Statistics and Mechanics
Mathematics at this level is designed to develop students’ powers of understanding and deduction as well as resourcefulness in solving problems. It appeals to those with a curiosity about numbers, patterns and ideas that have the power to solve real problems. Approximately two thirds of the course is Pure Mathematics, mostly algebra, calculus and trigonometry – although at this level a common feature is the blurring of lines between different disciplines. The remaining third is split evenly between Statistics and Mechanics, with many topics and skills being transferable to a number of other subjects.
Entry Requirements
Further Mathematics – Grade 8 or above at GCSE with some evidence of extension work beyond the GCSE.
Award
A LEVEL EDEXCEL Further Mathematics
Course Content/Structure
Further Mathematics is available, normally as a fourth subject, in addition to A Level Mathematics. Most of the content builds on the work done in the Mathematics course, whilst there are also a number of entirely new – and quite exciting – techniques introduced across all areas of the course.One half of the course is dedicated to Pure Mathematics with a degree of choice for the other half. By offering Further Mechanics and Further Statistics students continue to have a very rounded overview of the subject and therefore this is the default model we have chosen to follow. There is scope to adapt this based on numbers and specific strengths and needs of students which can be explored later in the course.
Assessment
A Level or AS Level Further Mathematics will be examined at the end of the
two year course. Alongside the same exams for the single A Level, students will sit:
Papers 1 & 2: Core Pure Mathematics
Papers 3 & 4: Electives as above
Within the International Baccalaureate, there are two Mathematics subjects or routes which are both available at Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL), namely Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches, and Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation.
Although the two courses share some common content, the themes and styles are very different. Students on the Standard Level courses will start together, but will quickly move in different directions and our experienced teachers will help you choose the course which is best for you.
Analysis and Approaches is strongly rooted in algebra and calculus, and whilst problem solving and critical thinking are important these will often be found in a more abstract setting. Applications and Interpretation is rooted in the use and application of Mathematics,and covers more statistics and modeling than algebra and calculus with contextual problems a big focus of the course.
Entry Requirements
SL: Mathematics GCSE Grade 6 (DP & CP)
HL: Mathematics GCSE Grade 7, but ideally 8 (DP students only)
Where this subject can take you
According to Dr Tom Crawford from the University of Cambridge “Mathematics is the key that unlocks the secret code of the universe” and whilst we can’t promise to take you to the edges of the universe, studying Mathematics at this level will open many doors for you.
Analysis and Approaches is intended for students who wish to pursue studies in Mathematics or subjects that have a large mathematical content such as Physics and Engineering; it is for students who enjoy developing mathematical arguments, problem solving and exploring real and abstract applications, with and without technology.
Applications and Interpretation is designed for students who enjoy describing the real world and solving practical problems using mathematics. Students interested in Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Statistics, Economics, Psychology, Business and Design will benefit from at least pursuing the SL course. The focus here is, as the name suggests, knowing which techniques to apply and then interpreting the results which are useful skills across numerous subjects.
Award
MATHEMATICS AWARD – IBDP & IBCP
Course Content/Structure
Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (Mathematics – Group 5)
Offered at both SL and HL, this course is designed for students who enjoy developing their mathematics to become fluent in the construction of mathematical arguments and develop strong skills in mathematical thinking. They will explore real and abstract applications, sometimes with technology, and will enjoy the thrill of mathematical problem solving and generalisation. A keen sense of algebra is essential to doing well on this course.
Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (Mathematics – Group 5)
Also offered at both SL and HL, this option is for students who are interested in developing their mathematics for describing our world, modelling and solving practical problems using the power of technology. Students who take Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation will be those who enjoy mathematics best when seen in a practical context
Assessment
All students will complete an internally assessed piece of work, “the IA”, worth 20% of the overall grade. The IA will be a project of their own design, offering the opportunity for independent study by engaging in mathematical exploration.
SL students will complete two externally assessed written papers alongside the IA, whilst HL students will complete three externally assessed written papers alongside the IA.