Here is a summary of the AQA A-Level Mathematics (7357) specification (Version 1.3, January 2018).
1. Overview
- Type: Linear qualification – all exams are taken at the end of the course.
- Prerequisites: Builds on GCSE (9–1) Mathematics.
- Content Modules: Divided into 21 core topics (A to S), covering Pure Mathematics, Statistics, and Mechanics.
- Overarching Themes:
- OT1: Mathematical argument, language, and proof
- OT2: Mathematical problem-solving
- OT3: Mathematical modelling
2. Assessment Structure
Three written papers, each 2 hours, 100 marks, each worth 33⅓% of the A-Level.
| Paper | Content Assessed |
|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Pure Mathematics core: Proof, Algebra & functions, Coordinate geometry, Sequences & series, Trigonometry, Exponentials & logarithms, Differentiation, Integration, Numerical methods |
| Paper 2 | Content from Paper 1 + Mechanics: Vectors, Quantities & units in mechanics, Kinematics, Forces & Newton’s laws, Moments |
| Paper 3 | Content from Paper 1 + Statistics: Statistical sampling, Data presentation & interpretation, Probability, Statistical distributions, Statistical hypothesis testing |
3. Key Subject Content
- Pure Mathematics: Proof, algebra, functions, coordinate geometry, sequences/series, trigonometry, exponentials/logs, calculus (differentiation & integration), numerical methods, vectors.
- Statistics: Sampling, data handling, probability, distributions (binomial & normal), hypothesis testing. Emphasis on using real large data sets.
- Mechanics: Quantities & units, kinematics, forces & Newton’s laws, moments. Focus on applying maths in physical contexts.
4. Assessment Objectives (AOs)
- AO1: Use and apply standard techniques (approx. 50%)
- AO2: Reason, interpret, and communicate mathematically (approx. 25%)
- AO3: Solve problems within mathematics and in other contexts (approx. 25%)
5. Administration & Support
- Calculators: Permitted with iterative functions, statistical distributions, and inverse normal capabilities.
- Access Arrangements: Reasonable adjustments for disabled students or those with special needs.
- Private Candidates: Allowed (self-taught, home-schooled, or distance learners).
- Resits: Allowed multiple times within the qualification's shelf life.
6. Appendices
- Appendix A: Mathematical notation students must understand.
- Appendix B: Mathematical formulae and identities students must know and recall (not provided in exams).
7. Resources & Support
AQA provides extensive teaching and exam preparation resources, including:
- Scheme of work, textbooks, training courses
- Past papers, mark schemes, examiner reports
- Exampro: Searchable bank of past AQA questions
- Enhanced Results Analysis (ERA): Free online tool to analyse student performance