specification overview
Pearson Edexcel International A-Level Mathematics (YMA01) is a modular qualification of 6 units, examined in January, June and October. Students take Pure Mathematics units (P1-P4) plus two applied units from Mechanics (M1-M2), Statistics (S1-S2) and Decision Mathematics (D1). IAS is claimed on completion of 3 units; IAL on all six.
subject content
P1. Pure Mathematics 1
Unit P1 (WMA11)- Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane
- Trigonometry; differentiation; integration
P2. Pure Mathematics 2
Unit P2 (WMA12)- Extended algebra, functions
- Integration, exponentials, further trigonometry
P3. Pure Mathematics 3
Unit P3 (WMA13)- Extended calculus, numerical methods
- Algebra and functions, trigonometry, exponentials and logarithms
P4. Pure Mathematics 4
Unit P4 (WMA14)- Proof, algebra and functions, coordinate geometry, binomial expansion
- Vectors and differential equations
M/S/D. Applied options
Two applied units from M1, M2, S1, S2 or D1- Mechanics 1-2 (M1-M2, WME01-02): kinematics, forces, energy, momentum, further dynamics
- Statistics 1-2 (S1-S2, WST01-02): distributions, hypothesis testing, correlation
- Decision Mathematics 1 (D1, WDM11/01): algorithms, algorithms on graphs, route inspection, critical path analysis, linear programming
assessment structure
| Paper | What's assessed | Length | Marks | Weight | Question types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unit P1 (WMA11) | Pure Mathematics 1 content | 1h 30m | 75 | 16.67% IAL | Structured pure mathematics questions |
| Unit P2 (WMA12) | Pure Mathematics 2 content | 1h 30m | 75 | 16.67% IAL | Structured pure mathematics questions |
| Unit P3 (WMA13) | Pure Mathematics 3 content | 1h 30m | 75 | 16.67% IAL | Structured pure mathematics questions |
| Unit P4 (WMA14) | Pure Mathematics 4 content | 1h 30m | 75 | 16.67% IAL | Structured pure mathematics questions |
| Applied unit 1 (one of M1, M2, S1, S2, D1) | First applied unit from the Mechanics, Statistics and Decision Mathematics options (combinations: M1+S1, M1+M2, M1+D1, S1+S2 or S1+D1) | 1h 30m | 75 | 16.67% IAL | Structured mechanics, statistics or decision mathematics questions |
| Applied unit 2 (one of M1, M2, S1, S2, D1) | Second applied unit from the Mechanics, Statistics and Decision Mathematics options (combinations: M1+S1, M1+M2, M1+D1, S1+S2 or S1+D1) | 1h 30m | 75 | 16.67% IAL | Structured mechanics, statistics or decision mathematics questions |
The qualification is modular. Papers are available in January, June and October series, so units can be sat separately. IAS Mathematics (XMA01) = 3 units: P1, P2 and one applied unit (M1, S1 or D1). IAL = all 6 units.
assessment objectives
| AO | What it means | Overall |
|---|---|---|
| AO1 | Recall, select and use knowledge of mathematical facts, concepts and techniques. | Minimum 30% |
| AO2 | Construct rigorous mathematical arguments and proofs through use of precise statements, logical deduction and inference and by the manipulation of mathematical expressions, including the construction of extended arguments for handling substantial problems presented in unstructured form. | Minimum 30% |
| AO3 | Recall, select and use knowledge of standard mathematical models to represent situations in the real world. | Minimum 10% |
| AO4 | Comprehend translations of common realistic contexts into mathematics. | Minimum 5% |
| AO5 | Use contemporary calculator technology and other permitted resources (such as formulae booklets or statistical tables) accurately and efficiently; understand when not to use such technology, and its limitations. Give answers to appropriate accuracy. | Minimum 5% |
key tips for success
Plan your unit staging
Papers are available in January, June and October. Decide which units go in which series so you're not cramming multiple units at once.
Master P1-P2 in year 1
P1 and P2 form the AS Level pure content. Nail them before moving to P3-P4 in year 2.
Pick applied combination strategically
M1+S1 gives broad coverage. S1+S2 for economics/data science. M1+M2 for physics/engineering. M1+D1 or S1+D1 introduce Decision Mathematics (algorithms, graphs, linear programming). Confirm with your school.
Practise differential equations for P4
First-order differential equations are P4 content, P3 covers none. Second-order equations aren't in IAL Mathematics at all, they're Further Pure (FP2).
Use the formula booklet
Pearson provides a formula booklet in every exam. Know what's in it to avoid deriving standard results.
Know the difference between IAS and IAL
3 units make up the International Advanced Subsidiary (IAS). All 6 units give you the full IAL.
Where to next
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