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How International GCSE Maths is assessed
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Knowing how the exams work helps you practise the right way from the very start of Year 10.
Two papers
International GCSE Mathematics A (4MA1) has two papers, each 2 hours and 100 marks, each worth 50%.
A calculator may be used in both papers.
A formulae sheet is provided in the exam.
A calculator may be used in both papers.
A formulae sheet is provided in the exam.
Two tiers
Foundation tier (papers 1F and 2F): grades 5 to 1.
Higher tier (papers 1H and 2H): grades 9 to 4 (grade 3 is allowed).
Higher tier (papers 1H and 2H): grades 9 to 4 (grade 3 is allowed).
What the papers cover
The assessment objectives are content areas:
AO1: number and algebra (57 to 63%)
AO2: shape, space and measures (22 to 28%)
AO3: handling data (12 to 18%)
Problem solving and mathematical reasoning run through all three, so explain your steps. Method marks can be earned even if the final answer is wrong.
AO1: number and algebra (57 to 63%)
AO2: shape, space and measures (22 to 28%)
AO3: handling data (12 to 18%)
Problem solving and mathematical reasoning run through all three, so explain your steps. Method marks can be earned even if the final answer is wrong.
Each paper has 100 marks and lasts 2 hours. Roughly how many minutes do you have per mark?
- 2 hours = 120 minutes
- 120 ÷ 100 = 1.2
Answer: About 1.2 minutes per mark
Two 2-hour papers of 100 marks, calculator allowed in both. Foundation gives grades 5 to 1, Higher 9 to 4. Number and algebra is about 60% of the marks. Show working for method marks.
Check you have got it
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