A-level maths set for revamp

Thursday, 7 August 2003 5:36 AM

A-level mathematics is to be "dumbed down" in a bid to attract more students.

The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority yesterday suggested a revamp of the passage from AS to the full A-level was timely as some universities were contemplating axing the course altogether.

Universities had witnessed a conspicuous drop off in candidates taking up degrees in mathematics since reforms to the so-called "gold standard" were introduced in 2001, the QCA said.

But the changes would not compromise rigorous standards, chief executive of the QCA, Ken Boston, insisted:

"It's less content but all the tough stuff has been kept. Mathematicians in universities can be confident they will get better-prepared people than they got before."

Under the plans, the present structure of three easier units at AS-level followed by three harder ones at A2 will change to four easier units followed by two harder ones.

Furthermore, some of the "more challenging" aspects from AS-level will be transferred over to A2.

Students will have more opportunity to study the fundamentals of pure maths and less, on the arguably more difficult, applied side.

Controversially, the prerequisite of obtaining at least a grade C in GCSE maths prior to taking up the course is to be axed.

The changes are expected to come into force in September 2004.

Peter Thomas of the Mathematical Association welcomed the news: "The new criteria will make A-level maths more accessible, while ensuring students will have a deeper understanding of the material covered."

The passage from AS to the full A level is to be made easier, according to the QCA.

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