Here is a summary of the Pearson Edexcel A Level Mathematics (9MA0) Specification – Issue 4, effective from February 2020.

1. Qualification Overview

• Title: Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Mathematics
• First teaching: September 2017
• First certification: 2018
• Structure: Three externally examined papers:
  1. Paper 1 & Paper 2: Pure Mathematics (each 2 hours, 100 marks, 33.33%)
  2. Paper 3: Statistics and Mechanics (2 hours, 100 marks, 33.33%)

2. Content Breakdown

Papers 1 & 2: Pure Mathematics

• Topics: Proof, Algebra & Functions, Coordinate Geometry, Sequences & Series, Trigonometry, Exponentials & Logarithms, Differentiation, Integration, Numerical Methods, Vectors.
• Common content with AS Level is highlighted for co-teaching.

Paper 3: Statistics and Mechanics

• Section A: Statistics
  Statistical Sampling, Data Presentation, Probability, Statistical Distributions, Hypothesis Testing.
• Section B: Mechanics
  Quantities & Units, Kinematics, Forces & Newton’s Laws, Moments.
• Assumed knowledge: All Pure Mathematics content.

3. Overarching Themes

Three cross-cutting themes integrated throughout:

1. Mathematical Argument, Language & Proof
2. Mathematical Problem Solving
3. Mathematical Modelling

4. Use of Data in Statistics

• A large data set is provided for familiarisation before the exam.
• Questions assume knowledge of the data set’s context, terminology, and structure.

5. Assessment Objectives (AOs)

• AO1: Use and apply standard techniques (48–52%)
• AO2: Reason, interpret and communicate mathematically (23–27%)
• AO3: Solve problems within mathematics and in context (23–27%)

6. Administrative Details

• First assessment: May/June 2018
• Grading: A* to E based on total marks (out of 300)
• Calculator use: Permitted, with specific guidelines
• Formulae booklet: Provided (Mathematical Formulae and Statistical Tables)

7. Support & Resources

• Scheme of work, topic tests, mapping documents
• Specimen and practice papers
• Mathematics Emporium for ongoing support
• ResultsPlus and Exam Wizard for performance analysis

8. Appendices

• Formulae and notation lists
• Calculator regulations
• Details on transferable skills, Extended Project linkage, and codes

Key Changes in Issue 4

• Minor clarifications in wording, typographical corrections, and formatting adjustments across Pure Mathematics sections.
• Updated guidance for consistency with DfE content requirements.
• Adjustments to assessment objective weightings.