GCSE Mathematics including Functional Mathematics

AQA's specification offers a 3-unit structure for teaching, learning and assessment which leads to qualifications in both Functional Mathematics and GCSE
The Functional Mathematics unit will be reported as a pass/fail examination at each of levels 1 and 2 and a separate qualification in Functional Mathematics will be received if passed. This assessment is identical to the level 2 assessment of Functional mathematics described above
Following discussions with QCA this unit will not now contribute to the overall GCSE assessment; the GCSE assessment will be based on Units 2 and 3
GCSE Grades A* to G are available to pilot candidates and this will be certificated as GCSE Mathematics
The initial proposal, within the 14–19 Education and Skills White Paper, that candidates will receive grade C only if they pass Functional Mathematics (level 2) will not apply to these pilot qualifications and candidates. However, pilot candidates are required to enter the Functional Mathematics unit so that the potential effects of such a hurdle can be rigorously modelled.

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Update: December 2007

In addition to those sitting Functional Mathematics, around 1000 candidates will be sitting each tier of the pilot GCSE Unit 2 in January. This is a one hour paper covering the Number and Statistics content and worth 33% of the overall GCSE assessment
The development of the GCSE pilot will concentrate on evolving assessments that fully reflect the revised Key Stage 4 Programme of Study, and complement developments in Functional Skills and Additional Mathematics leading to a distinctive suite of qualifications for mathematics for 2010 and beyond.

mathspathways@aqa.org.uk
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