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Original poster

level 7 Maths - extra test for A level

32 replies

lloydjam · 25/08/2017 01:52

HI

Just asking for opinions on the following. My DD school is saying that those who had a level 7 at maths GCSE will also need to pass an additional test in order to take A level maths. I think this is overkill as surely she has demonstrated an ability to study this further ?.

What does everyone else think about this? thoughts appreciated.

OP posts:
woodlands01 · 25/08/2017 07:43

I'm not really surprised at this. Edexcel grade boundary for level 7 was 50% which potentially means the student could not do half the paper. A level is such a huge step and of course, the Maths A-level specification changes this year and becomes harder.

I know some schools are accepting a 6 (similar to those previously allowing a B) but as a maths teacher I would not advise it - look at the statistics for how many B grade students get a U at AS Maths, frightening. I would advise getting actual marks for a level 7 and making a judgement on that - was it a weak or strong grade, and of course accepting the advise of teachers - they know best.
An extra test, targeted at specific skills required for A-level, is a positive thing in my opinion.

Livingdiisgracefully · 25/08/2017 07:33

There's just such a huge step up for A level maths. Maybe from their experience the school is worried that people will struggle if they don't have a really good mathematical ability. Perhaps the additional test assesses ability to do A level better than the gcse, which may test functional ability in maths but not be such a good predictor of A level success. I do know that when they were still doing AS's, anecdotally maths had a high drop out rate for children going on to do A2s.

twelly · 25/08/2017 07:23

7 is meant to be an A, would be interested to know what grade school tested last year

minesawine · 25/08/2017 07:09

My school accepted with a 7 and no extra test. Seems a bit unfair.

RedHelenB · 25/08/2017 05:55

You just need a 6 at dd s sixth form but an 8 to do further maths.

Original poster
lloydjam · 25/08/2017 02:03

Thanks - I'm interested to know if this if most schools are following this .

OP posts:
Phosphorus · 25/08/2017 02:01

Well a 7 is equivalent to a low A.

I guess they want to be sure the A level class is taken by people who are secure in maths.

So A* types and above ( 8 or 9).