WJEC A Level Maths specification (1300)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your WJEC A Level Maths exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official WJEC A Level Maths specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official WJEC A Level Maths (1300) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official WJEC specification PDF.
Specification overview
This WJEC A Level Mathematics qualification develops learners’ mathematical understanding in a broad, coherent and meaningful way. It aims to promote confidence, logical reasoning, and problem-solving across pure mathematics, statistics and mechanics. The course builds on GCSE knowledge and deepens students' grasp of abstract mathematical principles and their application in real-world and theoretical contexts. Learners acquire analytical and modelling skills, learn to critique assumptions, and use technology such as calculators and statistical tools effectively. This qualification supports progression to higher education in mathematics, sciences and related disciplines:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.Subject content breakdown
2.1 AS Unit 1: Pure Mathematics A
- Proof: methods including deduction, exhaustion, counterexample
- Algebra & Functions: surds, indices, quadratics, inequalities, polynomials, transformations
- Coordinate Geometry: lines, circles, tangents, intersections
- Sequences & Series: binomial expansion for positive integers
- Trigonometry: graphs, identities, equations, sine/cosine rule
- Exponentials & Logarithms: graphs, laws, solving, modelling
- Differentiation: from first principles, polynomials, tangents, rates
- Integration: as reverse process, areas under curves
- Vectors: 2D operations, position vectors, ratio division
2.2 AS Unit 2: Applied Mathematics A
- Statistics
- Sampling methods, data interpretation, histograms, box plots
- Probability: Venn diagrams, addition/multiplication rules
- Discrete distributions: binomial, Poisson, uniform
- Hypothesis testing using binomial distribution
- Mechanics
- Units, kinematics, motion graphs, constant acceleration
- Forces: Newton’s laws, weight, tension, friction
- Connected particles, pulleys, simple vector use
2.3 A2 Unit 3: Pure Mathematics B
- Proof by contradiction
- Rational expressions, modulus graphs, composite/inverse functions
- Parametric equations: graphs, modelling
- Sequences: sigma notation, arithmetic/geometric series (incl. infinite sums)
- Trigonometry: radians, identities, compound/double angle, sec/cosec/cot
- Differentiation: advanced functions, product/quotient/chain rule, implicit/parametric
- Integration: parts, substitution, areas, partial fractions
- Numerical methods: iteration, Newton-Raphson, trapezium rule
2.4 A2 Unit 4: Applied Mathematics B
- Statistics
- Conditional probability, continuous and Normal distributions
- Hypothesis testing: correlation and means from Normal
- Differential Equations & Mechanics
- Construct and solve differential equations
- Vector kinematics and projectile motion in 2D
- Newton’s laws: inclined planes, friction, connected particles
- Moments and 3D vectors:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Assessment structure
AS Unit 1: Pure Mathematics A
- Written exam: 2h 30m; 120 marks; 25% of A Level
- Mixture of structured and unstructured questions
- Calculator allowed
AS Unit 2: Applied Mathematics A
- Written exam: 1h 45m; 75 marks; 15% of A Level
- Section A: Statistics (40 marks)
- Section B: Mechanics (35 marks)
- Calculator allowed; flexible time allocation between sections
A2 Unit 3: Pure Mathematics B
- Written exam: 2h 30m; 120 marks; 35% of A Level
- Structured/unstructured questions, multiple topic integration
- Calculator allowed
A2 Unit 4: Applied Mathematics B
- Written exam: 1h 45m; 80 marks; 25% of A Level
- Section A: Statistics (40 marks)
- Section B: Differential Equations and Mechanics (40 marks)
- Calculator allowed; flexible section timing
All units are compulsory. Papers assess multiple topic areas with integrated questions. Staged assessment and summer-only entries apply:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your WJEC A Level Maths isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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