Getting Started Guide
Getting Started Guide
MATHEMATICS/
FURTHER MATHEMATICS/
EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL GCSE
PURE MATHEMATICS
ECONOMICS
GETTING STARTED GUIDE
SPECIFICATION
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Subsidiary in Mathematics (XMA01)
Pearson
EdexcelEdexcel International
International GCSE inAdvanced Subsidiary
Economics in Further Mathematics (XFM01)
(9-1) (4ET0)
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Subsidiary in Pure Mathematics (XPM01)
First examination
Pearson June
Edexcel International Advanced Level in Mathematics (YMA01)
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in Further Mathematics (YFM01)
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in Pure Mathematics (YPM01)
First teaching September 2018
First examination from January 2019
First certification from August 2019 (International
Advanced Subsidiary) and August 2020 (International
Advanced Level
Getting Started Guide for teachers
Contents
1. Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 4
2. Qualification overview ........................................................................................................................ 6
What has changed?................................................................................................................................. 6
2.1 Changes to specification ................................................................................................................. 6
Changes to Assessment objectives ......................................................................................................... 7
3. Planning............................................................................................................................................... 8
3.1 Planning and delivering the course................................................................................................... 8
4. Content guidance ................................................................................................................................ 9
5. Assessment guidance ........................................................................................................................ 13
6. Examination entry codes................................................................................................................... 16
7. Unit examination unit availability table ............................................................................................ 17
8. Transferable skills.............................................................................................................................. 18
9. NRC framework skills – IAL Mathematics skills interpretation ......................................................... 19
Key principles
The specification has been developed with the following key principles:
Clear specification
Clear guidance on what students need to learn, providing clarity for planning, teaching and
assessment. A review of other curricula and qualifications was undertaken to ensure that it is
comparable with those taken in high-performing jurisdictions internationally. Key stakeholders
were consulted on content and assessment, including higher education academics, teachers and
employers to ensure this qualification is suitable for an international context
Clear assessments
Clear and consistent use of command words across assessments and between series. Our
approach to assessments, definitions for the command words and details of how the command
words are explained can be found in the glossary.
The variety of content that will be found in the examination allows the student to demonstrate
knowledge as well as its application, which are required elements for further study or
progression into employment.
Our subject advisor team, can be contacted with any questions in the following ways:
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone
o Intl: + 44 (0)20 7010 2174
2. Qualification overview
What has changed?
This section provides an overview of the course to help you see what you will need to teach. The
overview gives a general summary of each of the examined papers.
P2
Section 1 Proof
4.3 Increasing sequences, decreasing
sequences and periodic sequences
The applied mathematics and further pure mathematics units are unchanged.
3. Planning
3.1 Planning and delivering the course
The IAL in Mathematics qualification can be taught and assessed as either:
distinct modules of teaching and learning with related units of assessment taken at
appropriate stages during the course; or
a linear course, that is assessed in its entirety at the end
One of the first decisions that centres will have to make is whether they intend to offer a
sequential or thematic approach. A modular A Level will offer a more flexible approach as topics
can be selected in an order that meets the needs of the students.
With examinations available in January, June and October there is flexibility for unit delivery
and teaching.
We have provided an editable scheme of work including a suggested teaching plan to support
you in planning your teaching of the new qualifications.
To support the teaching and learning of the new specification, we have provided a
comprehensive list of suggested resources throughout the scheme of work.
4. Content guidance
Introduction
This section provides an overview of the content of each of the units. The specification contains
more detail on what each of the content headings include.
Pure Mathematics 1:
Topics
Algebra and functions;
coordinate geometry in the (x,y) plane;
trigonometry;
differentiation;
integration
Pure Mathematics 2:
Topics
Proof;
algebra and functions;
coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane;
sequences and series;
exponentials and logarithms;
trigonometry;
differentiation;
integration
Pure Mathematics 3:
Topics
Algebra and functions;
trigonometry;
exponentials and logarithms;
differentiation;
integration;
numerical methods
Pure Mathematics 4:
Topics
Proof;
algebra and functions;
coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane;
binomial expansion;
differentiation;
integration;
vectors
Further Mathematics 1:
Topics
Complex numbers;
roots of quadratic equations;
numerical solution of equations;
coordinate systems;
matrix algebra;
transformations using matrices;
series;
proof
Further Mathematics 2:
Topics
Inequalities;
series;
further complex numbers;
first order differential equations;
second order differential equations;
Maclaurin and Taylor series;
Polar coordinates
Further Mathematics 3:
Topics
Hyperbolic functions;
further coordinate systems;
differentiation;
integration;
vectors;
further matrix algebra
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in Mathematics
Mechanics 1:
Topics
Mathematical models in mechanics;
vectors in mechanics;
kinematics of a particle moving in a straight line;
dynamics of a particle moving in a straight line or plane;
statics of a particle;
moments
Mechanics 2:
Topics
Kinematics of a particle moving in a straight line or plane;
centres of mass;
work and energy;
collisions;
statics of rigid bodies
Mechanics 3:
Topics
Further kinematics;
elastic strings and springs;
further dynamics;
motion in a circle;
statics of rigid bodies
Statistics 1:
Topics
Mathematical models in probability and statistics;
representation and summary of data;
probability;
correlation and regression;
discrete random variables;
discrete distributions;
the Normal distribution
Statistics 2:
Topics
The Binomial and Poisson distributions;
continuous random variables;
continuous distributions;
samples;
hypothesis tests
Statistics 3:
Topics
Combinations of random variables;
sampling;
estimation, confidence intervals and tests;
goodness of fit and contingency tables;
regression and correlation
Decision Mathematics 1:
Topics
Algorithms;
algorithms on graphs;
algorithms on graphs II;
critical path analysis;
linear programming
5. Assessment guidance
Each of the above units:
is externally assessed
has a written examination of 1 hour and 30 minutes
has 75 marks
When students have taken an eligible combination of units for a qualification, they are entitled to
claim that qualification. The process of claiming a qualification is often referred to as cashing in. This
can only take place in an exam series and is done by entering the qualification code for the
qualification along with the entry codes for any units being taken in the same exam series.
The allowable unit combinations for each of the qualifications in the specification are given below.
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Subsidiary
The International Advanced Subsidiary in Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Pure Mathematics
qualifications each consist of three externally-examined units:
The certification of each qualification requires different contributing units. For example, students
who are awarded certificates in both International Advanced Level Mathematics and International
Advanced Level Further Mathematics must use unit results from 12 different units, i.e. once a unit
result has been used to cash in for a qualification, it cannot be re-used to cash in for another
qualification.
Results
Scores in unit tests are converted to a uniform mark scale in order to generate qualification results.
Students will receive a uniform mark between 0 and 100 for each unit.
The uniform marks at each grade threshold for each unit are:
Maximum
A B C D E
uniform mark
100 80 70 60 50 40
Students with a uniform mark in the range 0–119 will be Unclassified (U).
Students with a uniform mark in the range 0–239 will be Unclassified (U).
For International Advanced Level in Mathematics, A* will be awarded to students who have
achieved grade A overall (at least 480 of the 600 maximum uniform mark) and at least 180 of the
200 combined maximum uniform mark for the P3 and P4 units.
For International Advanced Level in Further Mathematics, A* will be awarded to students who have
achieved a grade A overall (at least 480 of the 600 maximum uniform mark) and at least 270 of the
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in Mathematics
300 combined maximum uniform mark for their best three IA2 units (whether pure or application
units).
For International Advanced Level in Pure Mathematics, A* will be awarded to students who have
achieved a grade A overall (at least 480 of the 600 maximum uniform mark) and at least 270 of the
300 combined maximum uniform mark for their IA2 units.
8. Transferable skills
[1]
OECD – Better Skills, Better Jobs, Better Lives (OECD Publishing, 2012)
[2]
Koenig J A, National Research Council – Assessing 21st Century Skills: Summary of a Workshop (National
Academies Press, 2011)
NRC framework skill Skill interpretation in this subject Where the skill is covered in content
Cognitive skills
Cognitive Processes and Cognitive Process and strategies are a key focus
Strategies of Mathematics. All of the maths content could
be cited for each of these skills.
Critical thinking Using many different pieces of mathematical information (sometimes seemingly Aims: Bullet point 2, 5, 8
unrelated) and synthesising this information to arrive at a solution to a AO2, AO3
mathematics-based problem. Evaluating the suitability and/or limitations of
models used. Evaluating the reasonableness of information/data given and that Pure Maths 2: section 1
found. Pure Maths 4: section 1
Problem solving Assimilating information given, or data found, determining the goal and Aims: Bullet point 2, 3, 4, 5, 8
establishing at least one route from the one to the other. Combining information AO1, AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
in what is often a multi-step process. Drawing diagrams and introducing helpful
notation. Selecting the most efficient route to the solution from other possible This is a key focus of all Pure Mathematics and the
routes. Checking that the answer is reasonable. Selecting and realising an elegant Applied mathematics options ( - Statistics,
solution Mechanics and Decision Mathematics.)
Analysis Analysing given information and data, determining if it is relevant of irrelevant Aims: Bullet point 5
to the solution of the problem. For the information/data that is relevant AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
analysing its credibility and how it should be used in the solution of the problem.
Using formal methods of mathematical analysis e.g. considering limits as Pure Maths 2: 4.4
variables tend to infinity or zero. Pure Maths 3: 3.4; 6.1, 6.2
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in Mathematics
Reasoning/argumentation Constructing a reasoned, logical argument and being able to defend it if Aims: Bullet point 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
necessary. Being able to deduce additional information from given information. AO1, AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
Thinking logically and precisely and being able to prove, justify or argue that the
approach taken is valid. Detecting any flaws, omissions or errors in reasoning.
Interpretation Assimilating information given in a variety of ways, text, diagrams, charts, tables, Aims: Bullet point 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
graphs etc, and in a variety of forms. Being able to explain solutions and AO3, AO4, AO5
reasoning in a variety of ways, producing, as appropriate, their own text,
diagrams, charts, table, graphs etc. Interpreting the precise meaning of technical
terminology and its implications. Choosing to use, and using, technical
terminology correctly in their own work.
Decision making Comparing possible solutions or routes to solutions and making a choice about Aims: Bullet point 2, 5, 8
their preferred route or solution. Using formal mathematical decision- making AO2, AO3, A04, AO5
algorithms Evaluating the reasonableness of solutions or hypotheses and
deciding if they should be accepted or not. (Very formally in Decision Mathematics.)
Adaptive learning Responding to unfamiliar contexts and situations. Being able to adapt standard Aims: Bullet point 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10
techniques to non-standard situations. Understanding when special situations AO2, 3, 4,
may enable a more elegant or efficient solution. Checking that the solution is
plausible. Determining how a model could be refined to make them more
realistic.
Executive function Carrying out successfully a planned approach to the solution of a problem. Aims: Bullet point 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Understanding the situation, planning a route through the problem and AO1, AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
following it accurately to find the solution. Reviewing the solution to see if the
solution is plausible and to see if there is a more efficient route.
Intrapersonal skills
Intellectual openness Students of Mathematics require intellectual
openness as one of the core skills. Students are
exposed to new ideas, new approaches to
solutions, new problems every time they
study/explore. The whole of the content could
therefore be listed here.
Adaptability Respond to a new concept, idea, topic, model or scenario in an open and positive Aims: Bullet point 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10
spirit, showing the ability to broaden conceptual horizons in interpreting and AO3, AO4, AO5
understanding the new material.
Personal and social Use mathematics to undertake a specific task for which one is accountable or Aims: Bullet point 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
responsibility which develops social awareness in response to ideas. Use Mathematics to AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
communicate social ideas and to analyse claims made by others.
Continuous learning Reflecting on ideas learnt, problems met, whether solved or not, and using these Aims: Bullet point 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10
to improve on one’s own performance in the future. Taking an active role in AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
planning one’s own learning. Setting goals and meeting them in a continually
Interpersonal skills
Teamwork and collaboration
Communication Use mathematics as an effective medium of communication of ideas, concepts Aims: Bullet point 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
and solutions to problems. Use questioning skills appropriately to elicit further AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
information or information needed.
Collaboration Sharing work with others to break down a mathematical task, or separate cases, Aims: Bullet point 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
into more manageable pieces. AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
Teamwork Working with other students to solve mathematical problems, explore strategies Aims: Bullet point 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
or pool ideas. AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
Co-operation Sharing resources, ideas, strategies and results with other students. Aims: Bullet point 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
Interpersonal skills Use verbal and non-verbal communication skills in a discussion. Aims: Bullet point 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
Empathy/perspective taking Advocating the position of another in a discussion. Being sensitive to the feelings Aims: Bullet point 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
of others when correcting their mathematical work. AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
Negotiation Attempting to reach shared conclusions with others, compromising, where Aims: Bullet point 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
appropriate by using negotiation skills. AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
Leadership
Leadership Taking a leading part in a group task, assigning sub-tasks, considering Aims: Bullet point 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10
representations and different viewpoints. Resolving conflict. AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
Responsibility Taking responsibility for delivering, within agreed time constraints, one’s own Aims: Bullet point 2, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10
part within a group task. AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
Assertive communication Directing work to a conclusion and addressing conflicting viewpoints. Using Aims: Bullet point 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10
persuasive techniques effectively to convince of a point of view. AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5
Self-presentation Presenting a topic, idea or solution to the class. Aims: Bullet point 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
AO1, AO2, AO3, AO4, AO5