Discrete Mathematics

This "option" text is part of the "Nuffield Advanced Mathematics" project. The project consists of five student books and several option books: "Mechanics 1", "Mechanics 2", "Complex Numbers and Numerical Methods", "Statistics", "Discrete Mathematics" and "Surfaces", a maths reader, teacher's book and copymasters. The project adopts a student-centred approach to post-16 mathematics. The project is accessible to students who have attained National Curriculum level 7 (GCSE grade C and above), and encourages them to discuss, think for themselves and take some responsibility for their own learning. By offering students the opportunity to follow their own interests, apply mathematics to real problems and study a range of options, this curriculum development includes some material normally only covered at the undergraduate level. A number of real-world examples put the mathematics into context; mathematical modelling is an integral part of the course. An active, "learning by doing" approach is combined with the latest technology, modelling, group discussion and explorations.
Activities which encourage the use of graphics calculators and computers have been incorporated to enhance understanding of key ideas. These materials are designed to allow teachers to run AS and A level courses in the same classroom - students at all levels study the same three core texts and A level students will study two further texts in parallel. As part of their extra work, A level students choose one option from a range of texts. Students can take Further Mathematics at AS or A level by taking three or six options. "Nuffield Advanced Mathematics" fits the A level core requirements and offers tailor-made AS and A level examinations.