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Preparing for A-Level Maths

4.8 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 90 ratings
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Woody Lewenstein

This is a course for anyone thinking of doing A-Level maths. With 60+ videos and 40+ quizzes, we will go through all the GCSE topics that are needed most at A-Level, taking each a little further than you will have gone before and stepping into A-Level territory along the way.

I created this course especially for all the students who had their GCSE's cancelled this year, as you guys missed out on so much education and might be feeling under-prepared for your A-Levels. This is the course that will get you where you need to be to begin the A-Level course with confidence.

The topics covered are:

Read more

This is a course for anyone thinking of doing A-Level maths. With 60+ videos and 40+ quizzes, we will go through all the GCSE topics that are needed most at A-Level, taking each a little further than you will have gone before and stepping into A-Level territory along the way.

I created this course especially for all the students who had their GCSE's cancelled this year, as you guys missed out on so much education and might be feeling under-prepared for your A-Levels. This is the course that will get you where you need to be to begin the A-Level course with confidence.

The topics covered are:

Straight lines

Quadratics

Equations and Inequalities

Graphs

Trigonometry

Calculator Use

Logarithms

Along with the 60+ video lectures and 40+ quizzes to check your understanding, there is also a section on calculator use and a chapter at the end where we explore logarithms - a brand new topic from the A-level.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Coordinate geometry
  • Quadratics
  • Equations and inequalities
  • Graphs
  • Trigonometry
  • Logarithms

Syllabus

Intro to the course
Introduction
The best way to get the most out of this course.
How to use this course
Read more

In this video we learn how to find the equation of a parallel line.

In this video we look at how to find the equation of a line that is perpendicular to another.

In this video we look at how to find the equation of a perpendicular bisector given two points.

In this video we learn how to calculate the distance between two points, given their coordinates.

In this video we look at how to find areas of regions created by straight lines.

In this video we look at how to use straight lines to model situations in the real world.

In this video we look at some further examples of how to model the real world using linear models.

In this video we learn how to factorise and solve quadratic equations when the leading coefficient is 1.

In this video we learn how to factorise and solve quadratic equations when the leading coefficient is not 1.

In this video we learn how to solve a quadratic equation using the quadratic formula.

In this video we learn how to solve quadratics using completing the square when the leading coefficient is 1.

In this video we learn how to solve quadratics using completing the square when the leading coefficient is not 1.

In this video we look at a proof of the quadratic formula!

In this video we look at how to find turning points of quadratics.

In this video we look at how to use quadratic equations to model the real world.

In this video we look at how to solve equations that don't at first look like quadratics, but which in fact are!

In this video we look at more examples of disguised quadratics.

In this video we look at some quite advanced examples of disguised quadratics.

In this video we introduce the concept of the discriminant and how to use it.

In this video we look at how to form and solve equations arising from the discriminant.

In this video we look at some advanced applications of the discriminant.

In this video I go through two different methods for solving linear simultaneous equations, and discuss the pros and cons of each for A-level maths.

See if you can solve a linear simultaneous question problem.

In this video I show how linear simultaneous equations can be used to solve much more sophisticated problems.

In this video I explain how to solve quadratic simultaneous equations and represent these graphically.

In this video I show how intersections of lines and circles lead to quadratic simultaneous equations.

In this video I show how to solve a quadratic inequality.

In this video I go through an example of a slightly more challenging quadratic inequality question.

In this video I go through a much more challenging example linking quadratic inequalities with discriminants.

In this video I go through a proof of the sine rule. This is completely optional. Feel free to skip ahead a couple of lectures if you just want to focus on techniques.

In this video I go through a proof of the cosine rule. This is also completely optional. Feel free to skip to the next lecture if you just want to focus on techniques.

In this video I show you what the sine graph looks like, and how to use it to solve more complex trigonometry problems.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Reviews GCSE topics, which provides a solid foundation for students transitioning to A-Level mathematics
Includes a section on calculator use, which is essential for success in A-Level maths and related assessments
Explores logarithms, which introduces students to a new topic in A-Level mathematics and expands their mathematical knowledge
Features over 40 quizzes, which allows students to actively test their understanding and reinforce key concepts
Contains 60+ videos, which offers a comprehensive and multi-modal approach to learning and caters to different learning styles
Focuses on topics like quadratics and trigonometry, which are fundamental for further study in mathematics and related fields

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Reviews summary

Gcse to a-level maths prep

According to learners, this course is a highly effective resource for bridging the gap between GCSE and A-Level Maths. Students find the explanations clear and easy to understand, particularly appreciating the step-by-step approach. The course is seen as a solid foundation, covering necessary topics thoroughly. While some mention needing additional practice beyond the included quizzes, the course content itself is well-structured and relevant for A-Level preparation.
Quizzes are good, but more practice is needed.
"The quizzes are helpful for testing understanding immediately after a video."
"While the quizzes are good, I felt I needed to find extra practice questions outside the course to really solidify my skills."
"It would be great to have more varied practice problems available within the course itself."
"Quizzes check basic comprehension, but for full mastery, I sought out more challenging problems elsewhere."
Logical flow and useful quizzes.
"The course structure is great, moving logically through topics and building skills."
"Videos paired with quizzes after each section helped confirm I understood everything before moving on."
"The topics covered align perfectly with the prerequisites for A-Level maths."
"I liked the mix of videos and quizzes, it kept me engaged."
Course provides essential knowledge for A-Level.
"This course was exactly what I needed to feel ready for A-Level maths. It covered all the crucial GCSE topics and beyond."
"It gave me a really solid base to start my A-Levels with confidence."
"I feel much more prepared now, having reviewed and expanded upon the GCSE material taught here."
"Excellent preparation, covering the core topics needed for the transition."
Step-by-step teaching makes topics easy to grasp.
"The explanations are really clear and the step-by-step approach makes even tricky bits easy to follow."
"I found the way the instructor explained each concept very helpful and easy to digest. It built my understanding gradually."
"Everything was laid out logically, which made it simple to keep track of what I was learning."
"I appreciated how the course broke down complex ideas into manageable steps."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Preparing for A-Level Maths with these activities:
Review GCSE Maths Concepts
Strengthen foundational knowledge of GCSE Maths topics to ensure a smooth transition to A-Level Maths.
Browse courses on Quadratic Equations
Show steps
  • Identify weak areas in GCSE Maths.
  • Review notes and examples from GCSE courses.
  • Practice GCSE-level questions on identified weak areas.
Review 'A-Level Maths for Dummies'
Supplement course material with a comprehensive guide to A-Level Maths concepts.
View AS/A Level Maths for AQA - Mechanics 2: Student... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read relevant chapters corresponding to course topics.
  • Work through examples and practice questions.
  • Identify areas needing further clarification.
Practice Solving Quadratic Equations
Reinforce skills in solving quadratic equations using various methods, including factorization, completing the square, and the quadratic formula.
Show steps
  • Solve quadratic equations by factorizing.
  • Solve quadratic equations by completing the square.
  • Solve quadratic equations using the quadratic formula.
  • Solve word problems involving quadratic equations.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Trigonometry Cheat Sheet
Consolidate understanding of trigonometric identities and formulas by creating a comprehensive cheat sheet for quick reference.
Show steps
  • List all trigonometric identities and formulas.
  • Organize the cheat sheet for easy navigation.
  • Include diagrams and examples for clarity.
  • Review and refine the cheat sheet.
Peer Study Group: Solving Past Papers
Improve problem-solving skills and identify knowledge gaps by working through past A-Level Maths exam papers with peers.
Show steps
  • Form a study group with classmates.
  • Select past A-Level Maths exam papers.
  • Individually attempt questions, then compare solutions.
  • Discuss challenging questions and clarify concepts.
Graphing Project: Explore Transformations
Deepen understanding of graph transformations by creating a project that explores translations, reflections, and stretches of various functions.
Show steps
  • Choose several functions (e.g., quadratic, cubic, trigonometric).
  • Apply different transformations to each function.
  • Graph the original and transformed functions.
  • Analyze and document the effects of each transformation.
Review 'Advanced Problems in Mathematics'
Challenge yourself with advanced problems to deepen understanding and problem-solving skills.
View Advanced Problems in Mathematics: Preparing for... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Attempt challenging problems from the book.
  • Review solutions and understand different approaches.
  • Discuss problems with peers or instructors.

Career center

Learners who complete Preparing for A-Level Maths will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Tutor
A tutor provides personalized instruction to students, often focusing on specific subjects like mathematics. Preparing for A-Level Maths may be useful for those aspiring to become tutors. The course's in-depth coverage of essential topics, such as quadratics, trigonometry, and coordinate geometry, equips tutors with the knowledge to effectively support students. The course may be particularly helpful for tutors working with students transitioning to A-Level mathematics because it focuses on building a strong foundation and tackling more advanced concepts. A tutor may find the sections on calculator use and logarithms especially helpful. This course may enhance a tutor's subject matter expertise and improve their ability to explain complex concepts. Students with a strong foundation may be more successful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Tutor
Mathematics Teacher
A mathematics teacher plays a vital role in shaping young minds, and this course, Preparing for A-Level Maths, may be useful in this career path. The course covers essential topics like quadratics, trigonometry, and coordinate geometry, which form the foundation of A-Level mathematics and are crucial for teaching effectively. To excel as a mathematics teacher, one needs a strong understanding of the subject matter, and this course can help deepen that understanding. The course's focus on GCSE topics needed for A-Level, with deeper dives and stepping into A-Level territory, make it particularly suitable for anyone looking to guide students through this transition. The course's sections on straight lines, equations and inequalities, and graphs may be additionally useful. This course may also be useful for refreshing knowledge, building confidence, and preparing to teach A-Level mathematics.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mathematics Teacher
Curriculum Developer
A curriculum developer designs and creates educational materials, including lesson plans and assessments. Preparing for A-Level Maths could be useful for a career as a curriculum developer because the course offers a strong understanding of the core concepts of A-Level mathematics. The course's comprehensive coverage of topics, such as straight lines, equations and inequalities, and graphs, means a curriculum developer can design effective and engaging learning experiences. The course's focus on GCSE topics needed for A-Level, with deeper dives and stepping into A-Level territory, would allow the creation of materials bridging the gap between these levels. The course may enable a curriculum developer to align materials with learning objectives. Curriculum developers may find the course's video lectures and quizzes helpful as models for designing their own resources.
See salaries and explore the career path for Curriculum Developer
Maths Textbook Author
A maths textbook author creates educational materials, including explanations, examples, and practice problems. Preparing for A-Level Maths may be useful for those aspiring to write maths textbooks. The course offers a strong grasp of A-Level mathematical topics, such as quadratics, trigonometry, and coordinate geometry. The course's comprehensive coverage of topics, such as straight lines, equations and inequalities, and graphs, may enable textbook authors to develop clear and concise explanations of these concepts. The course's focus on GCSE topics needed for A-Level, with deeper dives and stepping into A-Level territory, may be useful for writing textbooks that address gaps in students' knowledge. The course may inspire a textbook author's own examples and problem sets.
See salaries and explore the career path for Maths Textbook Author
Actuary
An actuary assesses and manages financial risks, often using mathematical and statistical models. Preparing for A-Level Maths may be useful for those considering a career as an actuary. The course's coverage of key mathematical concepts, such as quadratics, trigonometry, and coordinate geometry, builds a strong foundation for understanding actuarial science. The course's focus on equations and inequalities, and its exploration of graphs, may be useful for actuaries who need to analyze and interpret data. Preparing for A-Level Maths could help actuaries develop the analytical and problem-solving skills necessary to assess financial risks effectively. A deeper understanding of logarithms may be useful as well.
See salaries and explore the career path for Actuary
Statistician
A statistician collects, analyzes, and interprets numerical data to draw conclusions and make predictions. Preparing for A-Level Maths may be useful for a career as a statistician, as it provides a strong grounding in the fundamental mathematical concepts used in statistics. The course's coverage of topics such as quadratics, trigonometry, and coordinate geometry may help build a foundation for understanding statistical models and techniques. The course's focus on equations and inequalities, and its exploration of graphs, may be useful for statisticians who need to visualize and interpret data. A statistician may benefit from the course's quizzes and video lectures, which reinforce learning and provide a deeper understanding of the material. A firm foundation is useful for understanding advanced statistical analyses.
See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician
Educational Consultant
Educational consultants provide expert advice and guidance to schools and educational organizations. Preparing for A-Level Maths may be useful for those seeking a career as an educational consultant, particularly for those specializing in mathematics education. The course develops a strong understanding of the mathematics curriculum, specifically in areas like quadratics, trigonometry, and coordinate geometry. The course could be valuable in assessing the effectiveness of mathematics programs and recommending improvements. The course's focus on GCSE topics needed for A-Level, with deeper dives and stepping into A-Level territory, means an educational consultant can provide advice on curriculum design and assessment. Educational consultants may find the course's structure and content informative when evaluating teaching methods and resources.
See salaries and explore the career path for Educational Consultant
Game Developer
A game developer creates video games for entertainment or educational purposes. While this course is focused on A-Level Maths, the fundamental principles learned may be useful when getting into game development. The course's coverage of key topics, such as trigonometry, coordinate geometry, and graphs may be useful for understanding game physics, character movement, and level design. Game developers may rely on mathematical concepts to create realistic and immersive gaming experiences. The course may help develop a strong mathematical foundation for game development. An understanding of coordinate geometry may prove particularly useful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Game Developer
Data Scientist
A data scientist analyzes and interprets complex data to help organizations make informed decisions. While seemingly unrelated, this course, Preparing for A-Level Maths, may be useful to aspiring data scientists since mathematical foundations are critical. The course's coverage of key topics, such as quadratics, trigonometry, and coordinate geometry, builds a strong base in analytical thinking and problem-solving. Data science relies on mathematical models and statistical analysis; a solid understanding of these concepts may enhance the candidate's ability to develop and interpret these models effectively. Preparing for A-Level Maths can help develop the logical reasoning skills needed to succeed in data science. The sections on equations and inequalities, and graphs, may be useful as well.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Researcher
A researcher investigates phenomena, tests hypotheses, and draws conclusions. This course, Preparing for A-Level Maths, may be useful for a researcher, especially in quantitative fields. The course's coverage of key mathematical concepts, such as quadratics, trigonometry, and coordinate geometry, builds a strong foundation for data analysis and modeling. A researcher may benefit from the course's focus on equations and inequalities, as well as its exploration of graphs, to assist in data interpretation. This course may help a researcher develop the analytical and problem-solving skills necessary for conducting effective research. If research requires advanced mathematics, a graduate degree is typically required.
See salaries and explore the career path for Researcher
Mathematics Professor
Those who wish to pursue a career as a mathematics professor often start by excelling in mathematics courses. A mathematics professor teaches mathematics at the university level, conducts research, and publishes scholarly articles. Preparing for A-Level Maths may be useful for individuals contemplating a career as a mathematics professor. The course's comprehensive coverage of essential topics, such as quadratics, trigonometry, and coordinate geometry, establishes a strong foundation for advanced mathematical study. The course's focus on GCSE topics needed for A-Level, with deeper dives and advancement into A-Level territory, helps students develop their understanding of mathematical concepts. This course provides the knowledge base from which to pursue further education. An advanced degree is typically required.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mathematics Professor
Financial Planner
A financial planner helps individuals and families manage their finances, plan for retirement, and make investment decisions. Preparing for A-Level Maths may be useful for a career as a financial planner. The course's coverage of basic mathematical principles, such as quadratics, trigonometry, and coordinate geometry, builds a foundation for understanding financial concepts and calculations. A financial planner may find the course helpful in their work. The course may help develop skills useful for a financial planning role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Planner
Software Engineer
A software engineer designs, develops, and tests software applications. While this course focuses on preparing for A-Level Maths, it may be useful for aspiring software engineers since a base of mathematical knowledge can be beneficial in certain areas of software development, such as game development or scientific computing. The course's coverage of topics such as quadratics, trigonometry, and coordinate geometry may help develop the problem-solving skills useful in software engineering. The course's focus on equations and inequalities, and its exploration of graphs, may be useful for software engineers who need to implement mathematical algorithms. This course will help students develop the analytical and reasoning skills to succeed in a software engineering role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Financial Analyst
A financial analyst provides guidance to businesses and individuals making investment decisions. Preparing for A-Level Maths may be useful for a career as a financial analyst. The course's coverage of key mathematical principles, such as quadratics, trigonometry, and coordinate geometry, builds a strong foundation for understanding financial models and analysis techniques. The course's focus on equations and inequalities, and its exploration of graphs, may be useful for financial analysts who need to interpret financial data and make predictions. The course may help students develop the analytical and problem-solving skills needed to succeed as a financial analyst. A deeper understanding of mathematical modeling can be particularly helpful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst
Engineering Technician
Engineering technicians assist engineers in designing, developing, and testing equipment and systems. While this course focuses on preparing for A-Level Maths, the concepts covered may be useful in the field of engineering. The course's coverage of key mathematical concepts, such as quadratics, trigonometry, and coordinate geometry, may help build a foundation for understanding engineering principles. The course's focus on equations and inequalities, and its exploration of graphs, may be useful for engineering technicians who need to analyze data and solve technical problems. The skills acquired while taking this course help develop crucial analytical and problem-solving skills for an engineering technician role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Engineering Technician

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Preparing for A-Level Maths.
Cover image
Advanced Problems in Mathematics: Preparing for...
Save
Collection of challenging problems designed to stretch and challenge students preparing for advanced mathematics examinations. It is particularly useful for students aiming for top grades and those interested in pursuing mathematics at university. The problems cover a wide range of topics, including algebra, calculus, geometry, and number theory, providing a comprehensive test of mathematical skills. This book is more valuable as additional reading to deepen understanding and problem-solving abilities.
Advanced Problems in Mathematics: Preparing for...
Paperback
$$
Advanced Problems in Mathematics: Preparing for...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
AS/A Level Maths for AQA - Mechanics 2: Student Book
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of A-Level Maths topics in an accessible and easy-to-understand format. It is particularly useful for students who need additional support and clear explanations. The book covers a wide range of topics, including algebra, calculus, and trigonometry, making it a valuable resource for reinforcing concepts learned in the course. It can be used as a reference text or for additional reading to deepen understanding.
AS/A Level Maths for AQA - Mechanics 2: Student Book
Paperback
Check
AS/A Level Maths for AQA - Mechanics 2: Student Book
Kindle Edition
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Rating
4.8 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
6 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Woody Lewenstein
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Reviews GCSE topics, which provides a solid foundation for students transitioning to A-Level mathematics
Includes a section on calculator use, which is essential for success in A-Level maths and related assessments
Explores logarithms, which introduces students to a new topic in A-Level mathematics and expands their mathematical knowledge
Features over 40 quizzes, which allows students to actively test their understanding and reinforce key concepts
Contains 60+ videos, which offers a comprehensive and multi-modal approach to learning and caters to different learning styles
Focuses on topics like quadratics and trigonometry, which are fundamental for further study in mathematics and related fields
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