The AQA Core Maths qualification is designed for students who have achieved at least a grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics and want to continue developing their mathematical skills in real-life contexts. It is particularly suitable for applications in Higher Education, employment, and practical problem-solving.
It would also be useful for students taking -Level’s that contain Maths such as the Sciences, Social Sciences and Geography but aren’t taking A Level Maths.
Key Components of AQA Core Maths
The AQA Core Maths course covers two main highways of study:
- Core Maths 1:
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- Recognises the importance of maths in real-life scenarios.
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- Focuses on problem-solving skills, statistical reasoning, financial maths, and logical thinking.
- Core Maths 2 (Optional Extension):
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- Extends the skills to more complex real-life applications.
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- May include data analysis, estimation, and critical interpretation of results.
Maths course content
| Topic | Key areas covered |
| 1. Number and Probability | Fractions, decimals, percentages, ratio. Probability calculations and applications. |
| 2. Algebra | Basic manipulation of expressions. Solving equations and inequalities relevant to practical problems. |
| 3. Graphs | Linear, quadratic, and exponential graphs. Interpreting data and modeling real-life situations. |
| 4. Statistical Techniques | Data collection and presentation. Measures of central tendency: mean, median, mode, and range.• Using statistics to support decision-making. |
| 5. Financial Mathematics | Interest and depreciation. Budgeting, taxation, and loans. |
| 6. Critical Thinking | Understanding assumptions in models and data. Evaluating mathematical arguments and solutions. |
Assessment
Written Exam: 1.5–2 hours in total.
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- Students are assessed through problem-solving tasks based on real-life contexts.
Exam Board – AQA
Qualification – A level
Entry requirements – 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4, including a grade 5 in maths
