MATHEMATICS -
STUDY ADVICE
Expectations
when studying A level maths?
There will be some topics covered at Higher GCSE which will be repeated in year 12 – it is really important
that you have secure algebraic skills and that you ensure you follow the advice of staff regarding the setting
out of your work.
The course consists of 5 hours of taught lessons and there is an expectation that you will be completing an
additional 5 hours of study in your Independent Study lessons or at home.
It is important to be organized as you will have a note book, an assessment book and homework materials.
Work Outside of Lessons
You will normally be expected to finish exercises from your text book during your Independent Study period
between lessons or complete other tasks.
Check your answers as you work through the questions.
If you get stuck or you are getting incorrect answers:
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look at your notes and examples from your lessons and information in your text book
speak to another student in the class
see your maths teacher for help before the next lesson
attend GER on Wednesday after school.
Homework
This could be on a current topic, previous topics or a mix of questions/exam papers
You will normally have a week to complete it but try to start it as soon as you’ve been issued it.
Please seek help if you are getting stuck or it feels like you are taking a long time on it.
There are lots of useful websites and resources to support you but don’t use online resources which just
“work out the answer for you” – it really doesn’t help in the long term.
You will complete your homework on paper and use a folder to organise your tasks. Over time your
completed and marked homeworks will be an excellent revision resourcse
End of Topic Assessments
You will know that you have an end of topic assessment -so make sure you have revised for it.
For your revision, prepare some revision cards or a topic poster – end of chapter summaries are useful for
this or your notes to pick out key facts.
After you have completed your End of Topic assessment – you will have review questions to complete
either in Independent Study or for homework. It is important that you complete these to ensure any
misconceptions or knowledge gaps have been addressed.
How to revise maths?
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Revise specific topics that you struggle with the most
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Create cheat sheets or revision cards
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Complete exam questions on that topic and eventually you will get to PAST PAPERS
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Go to GER
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Go to extra sessions (working lunches – holiday sessions)
•
Have a “can do” attitude – If you can’t do it YET, you just need more practice
•
Look after yourself – speak to your teachers if you are struggling
Tips For Studying A-Level Maths
1.
Understand the Syllabus
2.
Create a Study Plan
3.
Master the Basics First
4.
Practice, Practice, Practice
5.
Focus on Problem Areas
6.
Use Past Papers
7.
Seek Help When Needed
8.
Use Online Resources
9.
Study in Short Bursts
10. Stay Consistent
11. Focus on Understanding, Not Memorizing
12. Practice Mental Maths
13. Test Yourself with Timed Quizzes
14. Set Realistic Goals
15. Review Regularly
16. Stay Positive
17. Use Flashcards
18. Time Management in Exams
19. Stay Calm Before Exams