Statistics - GCSE

Duration of course: 2 years

Course type: GCSE

Examination Board: AQA

Overview: 

GCSE Statistics develops skills that students will use in other subjects such as science and geography, and reinforces techniques needed for GCSE maths as well as supporting progression to A level maths. Real-life scenarios will capture your interest and give you an insight into the importance of statistics in the real world.

Statistics is a growing part of the online and sporting landscape with companies such as Opta analysing on field performance in a range of sports, and social media sites such as Twitter analysing data constantly.

GCSE Statistics can be studied at both Foundation (Grade 1-5) and Higher (Grade 4-9) tiers.

Assessment Method and Component Percentages: 

The GCSE is split into two 1 hour 30mins papers, each worth 50% of the total mark.

What will I learn? 

The course builds on knowledge learnt in GCSE Mathematics. It is essential that you enjoy problem solving, manipulating algebra and have a solid understanding of basic data handling and probability.

The course is split into 3 main parts:

• Data collection;
• Processing, representing and analysing data
• Probability.

How will I learn? 

You will learn:

You will learn to use of statistical techniques in a variety of authentic investigations, using real-world data in contexts such as, but not limited to, populations, climate, sales etc.

For example:

• Identify trends through carrying out appropriate calculations and data visualisation techniques.
• Critically evaluate data, calculations and evaluations that would be commonly encountered in their studies and in everyday life
• Understand how technology has enabled the collection, visualisation and analysis of large quantities of data to inform decision-making processes in public, commercial and academic sectors, including how technology can be used to generate diagrams and visualisations to represent data
• Understand ways that data can be organised, processed and presented, including statistical measures to compare data, understanding the advantages of using technology to automate processing
• Apply appropriate mathematical and statistical formulae and building on prior knowledge.

Departmental Expectations: 

• All students are expected to be fully equipped for learning. You will require a scientific calculator, ruler, protractor and compass.
• All students are expected to supplement their in class learning with additional independent study, as directed by their teacher.
• All students are expected to embrace the challenge and rigour of the course – it is not easy but is highly regarded.

Career Potential: 

Careers in statistics include:

• Data Analyst   
• Financial Analyst
• Biostatistician
• Investment Banking

Future Progression routes possible: 

GCSE Statistics will be an advantage to anyone wishing to study Maths, Further Maths or Mathematical Studies at A Level.

Entry Requirements:

Higher Tier Statistics: In the top 140 for rank order in Maths.

Foundation Tier Statistics: Maths is one of your best 4 based on Rank Order