Our Money Back Guarantee

Maths and Mechanics A level – A brief introduction to studying Maths by Distance Learning

This Maths A level will be examined for the last time in June 2018. If you are looking to take your exam after this date have a look at out brand new Mathematics A level for 2019 exams.

The Mechanics A level course includes two major components – AS level and A2 level. The AS level is a qualification in its own right and may be studied for on a one-year distance learning course. The course has 4 modules of pure mathematics and 2 of Mechanics.

Each lesson begins with a set of clearly stated objectives and an explanation of its place in the overall programme of study. Effective learning is encouraged through frequent activities and self-assessment questions. The AS Level includes thirteen Tutor-marked Assignments (known as TMAs). The A2 course has a further eleven TMAs.

If you are considering enrolling on a Maths and Mechanics A Level with the Oxford Open Learning Trust we recommend you also look at our Maths A Level and Statistics A Levels.

The Oxford Open Learning Maths A level course is designed to match the AQA 6361 specification which is divided into six units which have the following titles:

AS level Maths

Pure core 1: algebra, trigonometry, integration, etc.
Pure core 2: exponentials, logarithms, etc.
Mechanics 1: vectors, forces, projectiles, etc.

A2 level Maths

Pure core 3: algebraic functions, coordinate geometry, etc.
Pure core 4: vectors, further coordinate geometry, etc.
Mechanics 2: Newton’s laws of motion, kinematics, etc.

A level Maths and Mechanics Student writing on blackboard

Apply Now Enquire Now

The Maths and Mechanics A level Specification

This course prepares candidates for the AQA Maths AS level syllabus 5361, for examination in 2017 and later years. Most candidates will then study the A2 Maths syllabus 6361. The full Advanced level qualification comprises AS and A2. We have chosen this syllabus as the one best suited for Distance Learning.

Last Examination Date

This syllabus will be examined for the last time in Summer 2018. Oxford Open Learning will have a brand new course available by September 2017 for first examination in June 2019. Please subscribe to our newsletter below if you wish to receive updates.

Apply Now Enquire Now

Maths and Mechanics AS Level Assessment

Pure Core 1 – Assessed by One exam paper of 1 hour 30 minutes worth 33% of the AS level mark or 16.6% of the total A level mark
- All questions are compulsory and calculators may not be used
Pure Core 2 – Assessed by One exam paper of 1 hour 30 minutes worth 33% of the AS level mark or 16.6% of the total A level mark
- All questions are compulsory and a Graphics Calculator may be used
Mechanics 1 – Assessed by One exam paper of 1 hour 30 minutes worth 33% of the AS level mark and 16.6% of the total A level mark
- All questions are compulsory and Graphics Calculator may be used

Maths and Mechanics A2 Level Assessment

Pure Core 3 – Assessed by One exam paper of 1 hour 30 minutes worth 16.6% of the total A level mark
- All questions are compulsory and a Graphics Calculator can be used
Pure Core 4 – Assessed by One exam paper of 1 hour 30 minutes worth 16.6% of the total A level mark
- All questions are compulsory and a Graphics Calculator may be used
Mechanics 2 – Assessed by One exam paper of 1 hour 30 minutes worth 16.6% of the total A level mark
- All questions are compulsory and Graphics Calculator may be used

Apply Now Enquire Now

As with most A levels, it is necessary to have 4 GCSE’s grade C or above (including Maths) to study this A level.

However, just a mere pass is not usually a sufficient basis on which to progress to ‘A’ level. In particular you are expected to have a good grasp of algebra — equations, factors, fractions, and, especially, the manipulation of formulae. These are topics which are normally studied in the higher paper of the GCSE.

If your Maths skills were acquired a number of years ago, it might be an idea to purchase a GCSE Maths revision book to help refresh your memory.

Apply Now Enquire Now