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About Edexcel GCSE Mathematics
Edexcel GCSE Mathematics is code 1MA1, with a qualification number of 601/4700/3 and a discount code of RB1, written for first teaching from September 2015 and first certification in June 2017. It has three equally-weighted written papers. Paper 1 is coded 1MA1/1F or 1MA1/1H, Paper 2 is coded 1MA1/2F or 1MA1/2H, and Paper 3 is coded 1MA1/3F or 1MA1/3H, and each paper is worth 33.33% of the total GCSE, lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes and carries 80 marks. All three must be at the same tier and sat in the same assessment series.
The three papers are not split by topic. Each paper's overview of content lists the same six headings: Number, Algebra, Ratio, proportion and rates of change, Geometry and measures, Probability, and Statistics. The content outlined for each tier is assessed across all three papers, and each paper covers all the assessment objectives in the percentages set for that tier. So there is no paper that is the algebra paper or the geometry paper, and a student cannot revise by guessing which topic each paper will carry.
Paper 1 is a non-calculator assessment and a calculator is allowed for Paper 2 and Paper 3. That single rule changes how much of the arithmetic has to be fluent, because the first of the three papers has to be done by hand.
Only four formulae are provided in the examination, and all four are for cones and spheres: the curved surface area of a cone, the surface area of a sphere, the volume of a sphere and the volume of a cone. Everything else, including the quadratic formula, the sine and cosine rules, the area of a triangle and every compound measure, has to be recalled. That is the single most useful thing to know about how this qualification actually tests a student.
The two tiers are weighted differently, and not only in content. The Foundation tier objectives are AO1 at 50%, AO2 at 25% and AO3 at 25%; at Higher they are AO1 at 40%, AO2 at 30% and AO3 at 30%. Half the Foundation marks are standard technique, while at Higher two fifths are, with more of the paper given to reasoning and problem solving. The topic weightings move the same way: Number is 22 to 28% at Foundation and only 12 to 18% at Higher, while Algebra is 17 to 23% at Foundation and 27 to 33% at Higher.
Who Edexcel GCSE Maths Is For
This course suits Year 11 students sitting Edexcel GCSE Mathematics 1MA1 who need the tier decision made on real evidence, and who understand that only four formulae will be handed to them.
- Year 11 students sitting Edexcel GCSE Mathematics 1MA1
- Students choosing a tier who have not seen how the topic weightings change between Foundation and Higher
- Students who rely on a formulae sheet that contains only cone and sphere formulae
- Students who are fluent with a calculator and slow without one
- Students who lose marks on method and reasoning rather than on the final answer
Edexcel GCSE Mathematics: The Board We Cover
Edexcel is the board this page covers. Every fact here comes from Pearson's own 1MA1 specification, Issue 2.
Edexcel
Edexcel's GCSE Mathematics is code 1MA1, three papers of 1 hour and 30 minutes and 80 marks at 33.33% each. There is no topic split between papers, Paper 1 is non-calculator, and only four formulae are provided.
How Centaurus Helps Edexcel GCSE Maths Students Excel
The Tier Difference Taught
Number falls from 22 to 28% of Foundation to 12 to 18% of Higher while Algebra rises from 17 to 23% to 27 to 33%, so the tier change is a change of emphasis, not just difficulty.
Objectives Tracked Per Tier
AO1 is 50% at Foundation against 40% at Higher, so a student's strengths are matched to the tier that actually rewards them.
Four Formulae, Rest Recalled
Only the cone and sphere formulae are given, so the quadratic formula, the sine and cosine rules and the compound measures are memorised and drilled.
Paper 1 Practised by Hand
One of the three papers is non-calculator, so mental and written arithmetic is trained as its own skill rather than picked up along the way.
Method and Reasoning Marks
AO2 and AO3 together are half the Foundation marks and three fifths of the Higher marks, so working and justification are marked, not just answers.
24/7 Progress Reporting
Families get access to the Centaurus Academy LMS, with attendance, progress and lesson notes available to parents, students and teachers at any time.
Why Centaurus Stands Out
Choosing the right Edexcel GCSE Maths support makes a real difference. Here is how Centaurus Academy compares with typical online providers.
Meet our Team Of Experts
Our expert tutors bring deep subject knowledge and a passion for teaching — helping every student reach their full potential.
What Parents Say About Us
Hear from the parents and students who have experienced our personalised teaching first-hand.
Excellent long-term experience
We have an excellent long-term experience with the academy and Sir Awais. Our three children studied with them during different periods and succeeded well. We highly recommend the academy.
Excellent academy
Centaurus Academy is truly one of the best educational institutions I've come across. The environment is nurturing, the staff are incredibly dedicated, and the quality of education is outstanding. They focus not only on academic excellence but also on character building and personal growth. The teachers are supportive and go the extra mile to ensure every student feels confident and motivated.
My child has gained confidence
I'm very satisfied with the dedication and teaching approach. My child has gained confidence and improved significantly in understanding math concepts, thanks to the teacher's clear explanations and supportive guidance.
Edexcel GCSE Mathematics: Frequently Asked Questions
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