WJEC A-Level Mathematics
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Course version · 603/1977/XVersion from Sept 2017Change version
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61 topics
Course topics56 topics
- Algebra and Functions (AS Unit 1: Pure Mathematics A)51 objectives
- Differentiation (AS Unit 1: Pure Mathematics A)18 objectives
- Moments
- Data presentation and interpretation (AS Unit 2: Applied Mathematics A)33 objectives
- Probability (AS Unit 2: Applied Mathematics A)9 objectives
- Statistical distributions (A2 Unit 4: Applied Mathematics B)12 objectives
- Exponentials and logarithms (AS Unit 1: Pure Mathematics A)39 objectives
- Numerical Methods (A2 Unit 3: Pure Mathematics B)21 objectives
- Trigonometry (AS Unit 1: Pure Mathematics A)21 objectives
- Statistical hypothesis testing (AS Unit 2: Applied Mathematics A)12 objectives
- Forces and Newton’s laws (A2 Unit 4: Applied Mathematics B)24 objectives
- Trigonometry (A2 Unit 3: Pure Mathematics B)33 objectives
12 of 56 shown
Overarching themes3 topics
Sequences and Series2 topics
Assessment and exam guidance
What Gets Top Grades
Knowledge & Understanding
Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge
- Uses correct subject-specific terminology
- Shows detailed understanding of concepts
- Makes accurate connections between topics
- Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge
Application
Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts
- Selects relevant knowledge for the question
- Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
- Uses examples appropriately
- Shows awareness of context
Analysis & Evaluation
Develops sophisticated analytical arguments
- Constructs logical chains of reasoning
- Considers multiple perspectives
- Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
- Acknowledges limitations and nuances
Key Command Words
Give a single fact or term
Name, select, or recognise
Set out main features briefly
Give an account of what something is like or what happens
Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains
State similarities AND differences (both required)
Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains
Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion
Make judgments about importance with justification
Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units
Tips and common mistakes
Common Exam Mistakes
Pitfalls to avoid in your exams
- •assuming the square root distributes over addition, such as writing √(9 + 16) = 3 + 4 = 7
- •multiplying only the denominator by the conjugate and forgetting to multiply the numerator
- •making sign errors when expanding (a + b√c)(a − b√c)
- •using the tangent gradient instead of the negative reciprocal gradient when finding a normal line
- •forgetting to substitute the x-values back into the original curve equation f(x) to find y-coordinates
- •Confusing clockwise and anticlockwise directions
- •Incorrectly identifying the pivot point
- •Failing to include all forces acting on the body (e.g., reaction forces at supports)
Top Examiner Tips
Expert advice for exam success
- •Always check if the denominator can be simplified before multiplying by its conjugate.
- •Keep answers in exact simplified surd form unless decimal approximations are explicitly asked for.
- •Read the question carefully to ensure you find the equation of the normal if requested, not the tangent.
- •In optimisation problems, clearly justify whether your stationary point is a maximum or minimum.
- •Always draw a clear free-body diagram before attempting calculations
- •State the pivot point clearly before taking moments
- •Ensure all forces are parallel as per the specification scope
- •Check units for consistency (e.g., Newtons and metres)
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