IGCSE Mathematics

Board:

Cambridge International Examinations

Course code:

0580

Duration:

2 years

Aims of the course:
  • To develop their mathematical knowledge and oral, written and practical skills in a way which encourages confidence and provides satisfaction and enjoyment;
  • To read mathematics, and write and talk about the subject in a variety of ways;
  • To develop a feel for number, carry out calculations and understand the significance of the results obtained;
  • To apply mathematics in everyday situations and develop an understanding of the part which mathematics plays in the world around them;
  • To solve problems, present the solutions clearly, check and interpret the results;
  • To develop the abilities to reason logically, to classify, to generalise and to prove;
  • To appreciate the interdependence of different branches of mathematics;
  • To acquire a foundation appropriate to their further study of mathematics and of other disciplines.

Levels available:

Core (grades ‘C’ to ‘G’) or extended (grades ‘A*’ to ‘E’)

Topics covered:

Core

Number; squares, square roots and cubes; directed numbers; vulgar and decimal fractions and percentages; ordering; standard form; the four rules; estimation; limits of accuracy; ratio, proportion, rate; percentages; use of an electronic calculator; measures; time; money; personal and household finance; graphs in practical situations; graphs of functions; straight line graphs; algebraic representation and formulae; algebraic manipulation; indices; solutions of equations and inequalities; geometrical terms and relationships; geometrical constructions; symmetry; angle properties; locus; mensuration; trigonometry; statistics; probability; vectors in two dimensions; transformations.

Extended

The above topics to an extended level, plus: set notation and language; functions; linear programming; matrices.

Assessed:

By examination, at the end of the 2 year course.

 

Assessment details:

CORE
Paper 1
1 hour
35%
short answer questions

Paper 3
2 hours
65%
structured questions

EXTENDED
Paper 2
1½ hours
35%
short answer questions

Paper 4
2½ hours
65%
structured questions

 

The short-answer questions test knowledge, understanding and manipulative skills, while greater emphasis is placed on problem solving in the structured question papers.

NOTES
1. There is no choice of question.
2. Scientific calculators may be used with every paper, however algebraic or graphical calculators are not permitted.
3. Tracing paper may be used with every paper.

Leads to:

It is a key qualification for entry into UK universities and allows you to develop your level of numeracy and your logical reasoning skills. 

AS or A-level Mathematics.  An A-level mathematics course provides not only an 'in depth' study of mathematics but also aims to develop those skills essential for a successful university career in mathematics, physics, actuarial science, statistics, engineering, operations research, computer science, business and industrial management, economics, finance, chemistry, geology, life sciences, behavioural sciences and cryptography.