Edexcel GCSE Maths — Higher
Pearson Edexcel 1MA1 Higher. Targets grades 4–9 with a strong problem-solving emphasis.
Course overview
Pearson Edexcel GCSE Mathematics (1MA1) at Higher tier targets grades 4–9. Three written papers in the same format as Foundation. Higher tier adds advanced algebra, vectors, circle theorems and geometric proof, with longer multi-step problems often combining several topics in a single question.
Paper-by-paper breakdown
Paper 1Non-calculator
- •Structure and calculation
- •Fractions, decimals and percentages
- •Measures and accuracy
- •Notation, vocabulary and manipulation
- •Graphs
- •Solving equations and inequalities
- •Sequences
- •Ratio, proportion and rates of change
- •Properties and constructions
- •Mensuration and calculation
- •Vectors
- •Probability
- •Statistics
Paper 2Calculator
- •Structure and calculation
- •Fractions, decimals and percentages
- •Measures and accuracy
- •Notation, vocabulary and manipulation
- •Graphs
- •Solving equations and inequalities
- •Sequences
- •Ratio, proportion and rates of change
- •Properties and constructions
- •Mensuration and calculation
- •Vectors
- •Probability
- •Statistics
Paper 3Calculator
- •Structure and calculation
- •Fractions, decimals and percentages
- •Measures and accuracy
- •Notation, vocabulary and manipulation
- •Graphs
- •Solving equations and inequalities
- •Sequences
- •Ratio, proportion and rates of change
- •Properties and constructions
- •Mensuration and calculation
- •Vectors
- •Probability
- •Statistics
Assessment objectives
Use and apply standard techniques
Weighting: F 50% / H 40%
Reason, interpret and communicate mathematically
Weighting: F 25% / H 30%
Solve problems within mathematics and in other contexts
Weighting: F 25% / H 30%
Tier differences
Higher-only: quadratics, simultaneous equations, function notation, vectors, surds, circle theorems, sine/cosine rule, iterative methods, advanced trigonometry.
Grade boundaries
June 2024: grade 7 ≈ 165/240, grade 9 ≈ 205/240.
Revision resources for this course
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