Mathematics IGCSE

Mathematics IGCSE

Course Length

One or two years.

The course

the formulation and application of algebraic and numerical methods. This description, however, barely scratches the surface of a subject that is considered in different contexts to be an art, a language and a science.

From a practical point of view, the influence of mathematics in areas such as computing, engineering, finance and physics is plain to see. However, mathematics is also a crucial component of architecture, economics, geography and
psychology.

The IGCSE course is academically slightly more rigorous than the GCSE course, and places a greater emphasis on formal algebraic methods. The more focused IGCSE specification is accessible to all students, and it provides an excellent background for those who wish to study Maths post-16.

The course is divided into three components (assessment objectives):

• Number and algebra (55% of total) – this looks at fractions and decimals, ratios, percentages, algebraic manipulation, formulas, linear and quadratic equations and graphs, proportionality, functions, calculus and set theory.
• Shape, space and measures (25% of total) – this looks at bearings and constructions, trigonometry in 2D and 3D, areas and volumes, similarity and vector geometry.
• Handling data (20% of total) – this looks at measures of average, probability and histograms.

What skills do I need?

You need to be good with numbers and abstract reasoning.

How is the course assessed?

The course is assessed by means of two written exam papers. Each paper lasts 2 hours and is worth 50% of the total marks.

Reading

Complete Mathematics for IGCSE (Extended)
By D. Rayner
Published by OUP, ISBN 978-0199138746

Exam Board and Specification Codes

Pearson-Edexcel 4MA1 (Higher Tier)

Dave Costin
Head of Department