Why choose this specification?
GCSE Applications of Mathematics 9370 is one half of the Linked Pair qualification along with GCSE Methods in Mathematics 9365. Both halves of this qualification are studied alongside each other.
This Linked Pair pilot started in September 2010. The pilot has now ended and the Linked Pair qualification is now available to all schools and colleges. The initial pilot ran from September 2010 and is now accredited until 2016 with a final re-sit opportunity in November 2016.
Comparing the two linked exams
GCSE Applications of Mathematics increases students' mathematical understanding of the world, covering practical, everyday Maths, such as those used in relevant financial and scientific contexts, and functional skills such as analysis and interpretation.
GCSE Methods in Mathematics, its linked qualification, focuses on more abstract Maths as a discipline in its own right, with students acquiring sound technique in Number, Algebra and Geometry and Mathematical problem-solving.
About Applications of Mathematics
GCSE Applications of Mathematics helps students to appreciate the workings of the financial world and statistics, developing awareness about money and the numbers that explain how the world around us works. Geometry and Measures are essential skills that may be easily transferred to Science disciplines. Maths can be helpful, creative, coherent and practical; Applications of Mathematics demonstrates all these features.
Why choose the linked pair of exams?
The Linked Pair, with its deeper exploration of Maths and new content not included in the current Maths GCSE or Key Stage 4 (KS4) Programme of Study, provides a sound grounding for higher study in Mathematics.
Students get time to develop a mature understanding of the subject before the final exams and will be comfortable with all areas of the curriculum before going on to study Maths further.
GCSE Applications of Mathematics 9370 offers a foundation tier and a higher tier. There are two units at both tiers, the first of which covers Finance and Statistics and the second which covers Geometry and Measures.
Both qualifications must be covered to complete the KS4 Programme of Study. It's not possible for students to choose one of the pair. It can count towards school performance indicators if a student achieves a C grade or above in one of the pair of exams.
- that GCSE Maths, like other core subjects, can be rewarded with two qualifications
- the extra time to teach the subject and the additional content that isn't in the single GCSE
- that the course covers more everyday, practical Maths
- the challenge to aim for a double A result
- that all assessment is at the end of the course so teachers can concentrate on teaching Maths rather than administering exams
- being part of a pilot that could influence national policy and revolutionise the future of GCSE Maths structure and teaching
- the focus on the essential core practical skills.
- that if they don't do well in the first exam, there is a chance to do better in the second
- being able to study the practical topics separately from the more theoretical ones
- having the time to develop their understanding, proficiency and confidence before being assessed at the end of the course
- concentrating on how to use Maths in everyday life and work
- gaining two Maths GCSE qualifications, with the chance of a double A
- the possibility of studying Maths at a higher level
- its importance for vocational qualifications.
- understanding of more practical Maths moving on from Key Stage 3 studies
- practical problem-solving strategies, confidence and skills required to tackle everyday challenges
- the ability to apply Maths across other subjects and everyday life
- the ability to apply Maths knowledge successfully to different contexts
- motivation, independent thinking and working.
- access to AQA's All About Maths teaching and assessment resource website, which includes route maps and schemes of work
- enhanced results analysis (ERA) so you can compare results with other schools
- assessment advisers available by telephone or email
- 24 hour support through our website and Ask AQA
- email updates from our Maths team.
Overlap with other qualifications
GCSE Applications of Mathematics is intended to be taken alongside GCSE Methods in Mathematics as a linked pair. There is considerable overlap with GCSE Mathematics. There is some overlap with GCSE Statistics.
Students can re-sit the qualification as many times as they wish.
This specification is not available to private candidates.
GCSE Applications of Mathematics could lead on to further study in Maths, Further Maths, Pure Maths or Statistics at A-level, the Social Sciences, or other related subjects such as Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Electronics, Psychology, Environmental Studies or Applied Science.
It could lead to higher study in such subjects as Social Sciences and Humanities, Natural Sciences, Computer Science, Biochemical Sciences, Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Medical Science, Psychology, Economics, Law, Accountancy, Insurance and Management.