Here is a summary of the OCR A Level Mathematics A (H240) specification (Version 2.4, February 2024).
1. Qualification Overview
- Title: A Level Mathematics A (H240)
- Awarding Body: OCR
- Structure: Three externally assessed components (papers), each 2 hours, 100 marks, weighted at 33⅓% each.
- Content Areas: Pure Mathematics, Statistics, Mechanics.
- Overarching Themes: Mathematical argument/language/proof, problem-solving, modelling.
2. Assessment Structure
| Component | Content Assessed | Format |
|---|---|---|
| 01 | Pure Mathematics only | Single 100-mark paper |
| 02 | Pure Mathematics + Statistics | Two sections (~50 marks each) |
| 03 | Pure Mathematics + Mechanics | Two sections (~50 marks each) |
- Calculator use: Permitted (scientific/graphical with iterative, statistical, and distribution functions).
- Question types: Mix of short/long, synoptic, extended response, and stretch/challenge questions.
- Formula sheet: Provided in exams; some must be memorised (see appendix).
3. Key Features
- Large Data Set (LDS): Pre-released data for Statistics teaching and exam advantage in Paper 2.
- Command Words Defined: e.g., prove, show, verify, hence, sketch, plot — with examples.
- Technology Use: Encouraged for graphing, spreadsheets, statistical software, and CAS.
- Co-teachable with AS Level (H230): Stage 1 (common content) and Stage 2 (A Level only) clearly marked.
4. Content Breakdown (Detailed in Sections 1–3)
Pure Mathematics
- Proof, algebra, functions, graphs, coordinate geometry, sequences/series, trigonometry, exponentials/logs, differentiation, integration, numerical methods, vectors.
Statistics
- Sampling, data presentation/interpretation, probability, distributions (binomial, normal), hypothesis testing (binomial proportion, normal mean, correlation).
Mechanics
- Quantities/units, kinematics (constant/variable acceleration, projectiles), forces, Newton’s laws, friction, moments.
5. Assessment Objectives (AOs)
- AO1: Use and apply standard techniques (50%)
- AO2: Reason, interpret, communicate mathematically (25%)
- AO3: Solve problems in mathematics and contexts (25%)
6. Administrative Information
- Total Qualification Time: 360 hours
- Availability: Annual May/June series, England only (English language)
- Grading: A*–E, U
- Resits: All components must be retaken
- Special Consideration & Malpractice: Follows JCQ guidelines
7. Appendices
- Mathematical Notation: Standard symbols and conventions
- Formulae List: Some provided, some must be recalled
- Accessibility: Reasonable adjustments available
8. Support & Resources
- OCR website, Teach Cambridge, Subject Advisors, CPD, ExamBuilder, Active Results, past papers, and newsletters.