Specification - A-Levels Maths
OCR's A Level in Mathematics A
OCR's A Level in Mathematics A is built around three areas: Pure Mathematics, Statistics and Mechanics.
The overarching themes connect mathematical argument, problem solving, modelling and communication across the whole specification.
Specification Details
Learners must take all three written components to be awarded OCR's A Level in Mathematics A. Formulae are provided in each assessment where required, and calculators are permitted for all papers subject to exam regulations.
Content overview
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Pure Mathematics | Core mathematical methods, proof, algebra, functions, coordinate geometry, sequences, trigonometry, exponentials, logarithms, calculus and numerical methods. |
| Statistics | Applied mathematics using statistical sampling, probability, distributions, hypothesis testing and data interpretation. |
| Mechanics | Applied mathematics using kinematics, forces, Newton's laws, moments and related modelling contexts. |
Assessment overview
| Component | Content | Marks and duration | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1: Pure Mathematics (01) | Pure Mathematics | 100 marks; 2 hour written paper | 33 1/3% of total A Level |
| Paper 2: Pure Mathematics and Statistics (02) | Pure Mathematics and Statistics | 100 marks; 2 hour written paper | 33 1/3% of total A Level |
| Paper 3: Pure Mathematics and Mechanics (03) | Pure Mathematics and Mechanics | 100 marks; 2 hour written paper | 33 1/3% of total A Level |
Key Features
Specification focus
- Clear command words and guidance on calculator use.
- Separate question papers and answer booklets so learners can see the full question and supporting diagrams.
- Applied content in Statistics and Mechanics is assessed separately, so each paper has a clear content focus.
- Questions include a mix of short, long, synoptic and stretch-and-challenge items.
Purpose Aims and learning outcomes
The qualification is designed to build confidence, enjoyment and progression in mathematics while preparing learners for further study, employment and problem solving in real contexts.
Learners will develop
- mathematical understanding, reasoning and proof skills
- the ability to model, analyse and solve problems in context
- clear mathematical communication using appropriate language and notation
- confidence using technology such as calculators and computers where appropriate
- independence in learning and evaluating their own mathematical development