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Statistics

Using and understanding data is becoming increasingly important in many areas of study and employment. Understanding of statistics is a crucial skill, and this A Level aims to give students the tools needed to help them prepare for higher education and the workplace. Statistics might appeal to students wishing to pursue the study of a numerate post-16 subject within the Science and Social Sciences.

It sits well with subjects such as A level Maths, Biology, Psychology, Geography, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Business Studies and Economics. It is also an ideal third A level for aspiring medical students. The emphasis is on using and applying statistics in real world situations. It will also appeal to students who enjoyed the statistics and probability components of GCSE Maths but found the algebra demanding.

Students will require a graphical calculator for this course, which can be purchased through Aquinas at a discount rate of approximately £75.

Qualifications & Assessments

Exam Board EDEXCEL
Level Level 3
Qualification A Level
Assessment Method 100% Examination
Entry Requirements Entry Requirements
Photograph of a student with a calculator

Paper 1: Data and Probability (2 hours)

Topics include:-

  • Numerical measures
  • Graphs and diagrams
  • Population and samples
  • Binomial distribution
  • Normal distribution
  • Correlation and linear regression
  • Bayes’ theorem,
  • Experimental design
  • Exponential and Poisson distributions

Paper 2: Statistical Inference (2 hours)

Topics include:-

  • Correlation and linear regression
  • Introduction to hypothesis testing
  • Contingency tables
  • One and two sample non-parametric tests
  • Experimental design
  • Sampling
  • Estimates and resampling
  • Significance testing
  • Confidence intervals
  • Paired tests
  • Goodness of fit
  • Analysis of variance

Paper 3: Statistics in Practice

Questions may be set on any of the topics within the specification, including the Statistical Enquiry Cycle (SEC).

Students can progress from this qualification to:

  • a range of different, relevant academic or vocational higher education qualifications
  • employment in a relevant sector.

In particular, this qualification provides a foundation in statistics for students seeking to undertake higher education in social sciences, biological sciences or medicine and related health studies.

Students may be surprised at just how many interesting jobs there are for statisticians. There is a long list which includes jobs in forensics, environmental science, the medical industry, market research, the sports industry and the pharmaceutical industry.

  • UKMT Senior Maths Challenge
  • Maths Inspiration Lecture
  • Maths Fest
  • Dame Kathleen Ollerenshaw Lecture
  • Making Maths at Manchester
  • Problem Solving Course

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