A Complete Guide to A Level Maths (H1 & H2) in Singapore by Our Top Tutors teaching A Level Maths Tuition

  

The Complete Guide to A Level Maths in Singapore

A Level Maths is a highly competitive and rigorous subject, both at H1 and H2 level, as students are exposed to a large amount of content that they are required to learn and apply within 1.5 years. In addition, A Level students are also expected to master large amounts of content for their other A Level subjects too, which has proven to be an extremely uphill task for all students. Here, MindFlex has compiled an ultimate guide to the A Level Maths syllabus in order to help clear some queries and make studying for A Level Maths easier. We’ve populated this article with all the relevant information you need to know, together with free resources, tips and tricks that’d come in handy for your A Level Maths preparation!

1. An Overview to A Level Maths

A Level Maths is a popular subject taken by A Level students, both at the H1 and H2 level. The course is designed in order to prepare students for further education in universities by equipping them with a strong foundation in basic and advanced mathematical skills, together with exposure to application questions in real-life contexts. Through applications of Maths, students can also expect to develop an appreciation for Maths and its connections to other disciplines and the real world. 

A Level Maths is seen as a challenge for most students due to the requirement of a good foundation in Maths, which should have been built during their Primary and Secondary school days. However, despite this, the jump from O Level Maths/IP Maths to A Level Maths is extremely large, and students need to grasp a good foundation in the new skills and concepts introduced in order to do well at the A Level Maths standard. Furthermore, since the A Level syllabus demands a large amount of application of the concepts into novel and real-life situations, students might find this application aspect challenging, resulting in lowered motivation to do well for their A Level Maths.

With all the challenges surrounding A Level Maths, coupled with the fast-paced learning environment in JC, students tend to struggle with keeping up with the syllabus – resulting in lowered motivation and declining results. However, this stress can easily be avoided through picking up essential tips and tricks to do well in A Level Maths, as well as through engaging additional help early in order to build a solid foundation in A Level Maths.

Here at MindFlex, we have over 6,000 highly experienced and qualified A Level Maths Tutors who will be able to relieve any stress and anxieties surrounding A Level Maths, and are highly qualified in helping students ace their A Level examinations. Start your Maths Tuition with us today!

2. Objectives of A Level Maths

The aim of A Level Maths is to enable students to acquire mathematical concepts and skills to prepare them for tertiary studies, as well as to develop thinking and reasoning skills through a mathematical approach to problem solving. Students can also be expected to connect mathematical concepts to contexts of other disciplines, such as Sciences, Engineering etc. 

For both the A Level H1/H2 Maths syllabus, students are expected to:
1. Understand and apply mathematical concepts and skills in various contexts, including unfamiliar ones
2. Formulate real-world problems mathematically and solve, interpret and evaluate the solutions in the context of the real-world problem
3. Reason and communicate mathematically through deduction, explanation, argument and proof

More information can be found under the SEAB Syllabus (H1) and SEAB Syllabus (H2).

3. A Level Maths Exam Format

3.1. H1 Maths

100 marks, 3 hours
Section A (Pure Maths): 40 marks
Section B (Probability & Statistics): 60 marks

The H1 Maths paper consists of two sections, namely Section A (focusing on Pure Maths topics) and Section B (focusing on Probability and Statistics). Each section has about 5-8 questions of varying length and marks, with at least 2 questions (at least 1 in each section) on the application of Maths in real-world contexts, including those of Business and Social Sciences. In these application questions, which will have a minimum weightage of 12 marks, students might also be expected to synthesise answers through integrating concepts and skills from different topics.

3.1.1 Challenges Faced in H1 Maths

Students taking H1 Maths tend to find it difficult to master both the Pure Maths and Probability & Statistics sections due to the sheer amount of concepts and formulas involved. Furthermore, time management is an issue faced by most students, resulting in inability to complete their exam paper within the stipulated 3 hours. Lastly, with the increased emphasis of the A Level syllabus in ensuring that students are exposed to more application questions, which requires higher-order thinking and integration of different topics, the difficulty of the A Level Maths examinations have definitely increased. 

3.1.2 How To Score in H1 Maths

To do well in H1 Maths, students are encouraged to be well-versed with the various Maths concepts, as well as to invest time and effort into practising and getting their fundamentals right. In-depth understanding of concepts is essential as opposed to just pure memorisation as many questions under the A Level H1 Maths syllabus requires application. This can be done through taking time to do up summary sheets with the various Maths concepts, or through completing test papers under timed conditions. Another tip on scoring well for H1 Maths is to seek help early! Building good Maths habits is key; and one way to do so is through getting an A Level Maths Tuition. See our recommendations for the 26 Top Tuition Choices for JC Students.

3.2. H2 Maths

Paper 1 (Pure Maths only)
100 marks, 3 hours

Paper 2
100 marks, 3 hours
Section A (Pure Maths): 40 marks
Section B (Probability & Statistics): 60 marks

All H2 Maths students are required to sit for 2 papers, both with equal weightage. Paper 1 is a Pure Maths paper consisting of 10-12 questions of varying marks and lengths,  with at least 2 questions on the application of Maths in real-world contexts. Each application question will have a weightage of 12 marks and may require concepts and skills from more than one topic.

Paper 2 comprises Section A and B, and includes questions from Pure Maths topics and Probability and Statistics. Each section has about 5-8 questions of varying length and marks, with at least 2 questions (in Section B only) on the application of Maths in real-world contexts, including those of Business and Social Sciences. In these application questions, which will have a minimum weightage of 12 marks, students might also be expected to synthesise answers through integrating concepts and skills from different topics.

3.2.1 Challenges Faced in H2 Maths

At H2 Maths level, the sheer amount of content students are required to master is a lot, hence students usually have a hard time trying to master the entire H2 Maths syllabus. The syllabus also includes various challenging topics such as Complex Numbers and Vectors, which have proven to be some of the harder topics to master for H2 Maths students. Similar to H1 Maths, students also struggle with time management during examinations – 3 hours might seem like a long time, but given the depth and breadth of answers required in the A Level H2 Maths questions, 3 hours can fly by in the blink of an eye! Hence, during examinations, many students tend to run out of time, resulting in them either compromising on the quality of their answers in attempt to finish the paper, or give up on several questions completely by leaving them unattempted.

3.2.2. How To Score in H2 Maths

Practice and exposure is extremely crucial to ensure that students are well-versed with the H2 Maths content as well as the various question types and the steps to go about answering them. This can be done through repeated practising of exam papers, preferably under timed conditions in order to simulate examination conditions. In addition, given the increased emphasis on application questions in recent years, it is definitely beneficial for students to spend more time exposing themselves to application-based questions as opposed to the basic question types.

We understand how challenging it might be to get repeated practice and exposure due to the lack of resources. Why not seek additional help via a Home Tutor? Here at MindFlex, we have a large database of over 6,000 experienced A Level Maths Tutors who have their own stash of Maths resources ranging from H2 Maths notes, Maths summary sheets and H2 Maths exam papers. 

4. A Level Maths Tips and Resources

The amount of content mastery required to do well in A Level Maths is a lot for students. Furthermore, students might also be caught up with extracurricular activities or other A Level subjects, making it harder to focus on preparing for their A Level Maths. However, fret not – MindFlex has compiled a list of key study tips and free A Level Maths resources ranging from assessment/guide book to downloadable apps; perfect for giving you an extra boost to ace the A Level Maths examination.

4.1. A Level Maths Tips

4.1.1. Be Consistent & Focused 

With up to 20 topics and sub-topics under the A Level Maths syllabus, procrastination is definitely every A Level student’s enemy. Once students procrastinate or zone off during lessons, it might get progressively harder to catch up or grasp the many new, foreign concepts taught. Therefore, students will definitely benefit from staying consistent right from their first Maths lecture, focusing on understanding the concepts taught during lecture and thereafter, reinforcing their learning through attempting tutorial questions consistently and staying focused during all lessons. This way, students will have an easier time consolidating their learning before the A Levels. 

4.1.2. Start a ‘Mistakes Book’

In order to do well in Maths, students need to consistently and continuously practise and work on their mistakes. We reached out to our MindFlex A Level Maths Tutors and gathered some feedback on the common mistakes made by A Level Maths students, and a common mistake committed by students is, in fact, not knowing their mistakes. Even despite practising questions after questions, students continue making similar mistakes repeatedly. This is because students have yet to inherently internalise their mistakes, nor have they spent time analysing and breaking down the reason behind their mistakes (be it a lapse in understanding, a formula mistake etc.). Hence, MindFlex recommends starting a mistakes book, which can be done through penning down the mistake made in a notebook and noting down the topic and reason behind the mistake (was it careless, unfamiliarity with Maths concept etc.). 

This way, students will be able to get a good bird’s eye view of the various past Maths mistakes they have made, allowing them to learn from them and refrain from repeating them in the future.

4.1.3. Form Study Groups

Having an effective study group is useful for A Level students. They serve as a form of motivation as well as help clear any doubts that might surface during the study session. This way, students can be more at ease knowing that they are not alone and are able to form healthy and productive study schedules together with their friends. During study sessions, students can attempt the same practice paper or go through the same lecture content, allowing them to clear any misconceptions or queries together as a group. Groups can also sign up for extra consultations with their Maths teachers together, which will serve as an effective way to reinforce their learning.

4.1.4. Get Enough Practice

It is no secret that practice is essential in doing well in A Level Maths. Students should aim to be exposed to as many practice questions, whether it is questions in their lecture notes, tuition notes or questions from past year papers. Through repeated practice, students will then be able to grasp the content and be familiarised with as many question types and skills required. In addition, it is also crucial for students to practice exam papers under exam settings (ie. under timed conditions, in one sitting) in order to simulate examination conditions. As we’ve mentioned above, time management is a huge challenge across both H1 and H2 Maths – hence, through simulating exam conditions, students will be made aware of the speed and accuracy required to do well in their A Level Maths examination.

4.1.5. Seek Help Early

If all else fails, students should consider seeking additional guidance from a Maths Tutor. Trying to tackle A Level Maths alone might be difficult for students as they are not exposed to the correct skills and direction. Hence, we strongly recommend seeking additional guidance early, which will allow ample time for the A Level Maths Tutor to understand the student’s weaknesses and learning styles, which will allow the tutor to personalise their teaching styles and methods to cater towards the student. 

Hence, it might be beneficial to seek help from an A Level Maths Tutor early! At MindFlex, we have one of the largest databases of A Level Maths Tutors who are trained and have valuable tips and resources to help improve students’ Maths grades.

4.2. A Level Maths Resources

Here, we have compiled our top 9 resources for your child to aid him/her in their A Level Maths preparation.

4.2.1. AL H2 Succeeding Best Mathematics

This assessment book contains over 250 questions targeted towards helping A Level students prepare for their A Level Maths examination. It acts as a comprehensive approach towards problem solving, helping students through repeated and targeted practice, enabling them to hone their Maths skills and fundamentals. 

4.2.2. A-Level Complete H2 Maths Guide

A-Level Complete H2 Maths Guide is an informative guidebook, perfect for comprehensive revision. The H2 guidebooks are split into 2 volumes, one for Pure Maths and the other for Probability & Statistics. The books come with notes, worked examples and even graphic calculator guides for students. 

4.2.3. Math Formula iGCSE, GCE O/A, GCSE, IB, High School

This handy Android app is created by a Maths teacher with decades of teaching experience. It is specially created for students who are pursuing a certificate in iGCSE, GCE O/A Level, GCSE, International Baccalaureate (IB) or High School exam, who are sitting for their Elementary, Additional or Further (H2) Mathematics examination,

Maths topics included are inline with Cambridge’s Maths syllabus. Formulae are grouped into Additional Maths, Elementary and Further (H2) Maths. This allows users to get to the required formula quickly and easily – serving as a useful tool for all A Level Maths students! 

Download the app on the Google Play store.

4.2.4. A Level Mathematics

A Level Mathematics is a revision app designed to make revision convenient and with a swipe on your phone. The app includes hundreds of tutorial videos, questions, diagnostic tests and review notes, with unique features such as an in-built calendar to help students plan out their study schedule, detailed statistics to monitor study progress and a community discussion page.

Download the app on the Google Play store.

4.2.5. Photomath

Photomath is an award-winning learning tool to help students with their Maths struggles. Students simply need to scan a picture of their Maths question using their in-built camera, upload, and wait for help! Students will receive step-by-step explanations to aid them in approaching the question.

Explore all the other functions of Photomath, or download it on the Apple Store or Google Play store.

4.2.6. Free A Level Maths Notes

It can be extremely helpful to have a consolidated stack of notes to aid you in understanding and studying Maths. It can also serve as last minute revision material before your examinations! Since it might be tedious to write your own notes, we’ve found some free Maths notes for you! .

View H2 Maths Notes here.

4.2.7. Free A Level Maths Exam Papers

Having to purchase extra exam resources can be expensive, deterring students from getting hold of them. However, here at MindFlex, we’ve collated a list of free A Level Maths exam papers that are downloadable, perfect for your Maths practice!

Download the A Level Maths papers here.

4.2.8. A Level H1 & H2 Maths Tuition

While our tips and resources might provide a starting spot to build up on your Maths foundation and skills, students might still be unsure as to how to improve on their foundation. Hence, engaging in effective A Level Maths tuition classes can be the next most feasible option! 

4.2.9. MindFlex Maths Home Tuition

If group tuition isn’t your cup of tea, and you’d like to try out 1-to-1 home tutoring, you’ve come to the right place! Here at MindFlex, we house over 6,000 A Level Maths Home Tutors with varying qualifications, experience and rates. Enjoy high-quality guidance and education at the comforts of your own home and pace with MindFlex’s A Level Maths Tutors.

5. Conclusion

A Level Maths remains as one of the most competitive A Level subjects, causing anxieties in students over its steep bell curve. However, it is still important for students to realise that the A Levels are a crucial stepping stone for one’s future and further education. Apart from doing well, it is essential that students learn the correct study habits, mindsets and skills in order to do well in their further studies.

Our MindFlex A Level Maths Tutors place strong emphasis on holistic education. Most of them have gone through the same A Level pathway, hence, they are able to empathise and understand how crucial it is to develop sustainable and healthy skills and habits in order to do well for the A Level examinations and learn important life skills during the process.

Discover how you can improve your Maths with MindFlex today!