3 Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular)

content

Foundation Tier 11
Higher Tier 12
Unit 1: Foundation Tier 13
1 Numbers and the number system 13
2 Equations, formulae and identities 16
3 Sequences, functions and graphs 17
4 Geometry 18
6 Statistics and probability 20

Unit 1: Higher Tier 21

1 Numbers and the number system 21
2 Equations, formulae and identities 22
3 Sequences, functions and graphs 23
4 Geometry 24
6 Statistics and probability 24

Unit 2: Foundation Tier 25

1 Numbers and the number system 25
2 Equations, formulae and identities 27
3 Sequences, functions and graphs 28
4 Geometry 29
5 Vectors and transformation geometry 31
6 Statistics and probability 32

Unit 2: Higher Tier 33

1 Numbers and the number system 33
2 Equations, formulae and identities 34
3 Sequences, functions and graphs 36
4 Geometry 38
5 Vectors and transformation geometry 39
6 Statistics and probability 40

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular) 9

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
Foundation Tier

Externally assessed

Description
The Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular) requires
learners to demonstrate application and understanding of the following.

Number
Use numerical skills in a purely mathematical way and in real-life situations.

Algebra
Use letters as equivalent to numbers and as variables.
Understand the distinction between expressions, equations and formulae.
Use algebra to set up and solve problems.
Demonstrate manipulation skills.
Construct and use graphs.

Geometry
Use properties of angles.
Understand a range of transformations.
Work within the metric system.
Understand ideas of space and shape.
Use ruler, a pair of compasses and protractor appropriately.

Statistics
Understand basic ideas of statistical averages.
Use a range of statistical techniques.
Use basic ideas of probability.

Learners should be able to use and apply standard mathematical techniques by accurately
recalling facts, terminology and definitions; using and interpreting notation correctly; and
accurately carrying out routine procedures or set tasks that require multi-step solutions.

Learners should be able to demonstrate problem-solving skills by translating problems in

mathematical or non-mathematical contexts into a process or a series of mathematical processes.

Learners should be able to demonstrate mathematical reasoning skills by:

making deductions and drawing conclusions from mathematical information
constructing chains of reasoning
presenting arguments and proofs
interpreting and communicating information accurately.

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular) 11

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
Higher Tier

Externally assessed
Knowledge of the Foundation Tier Unit 1 content is assumed for learners being prepared for
Foundation Tier Unit 2 or Higher Tier Unit 2. Knowledge of the Higher Tier Unit 1 content is
assumed for learners being prepared for Higher Tier Unit 2.

Description
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular) requires learners
to demonstrate application and understanding of the following:

Number
Use numerical skills in a purely mathematical way and in real-life situations.

Algebra
Use letters as equivalent to numbers and as variables.
Understand the distinction between expressions, equations and formulae.
Use algebra to set up and solve problems.
Demonstrate manipulation skills.
Construct and use graphs.

Geometry
Use the properties of angles.
Understand a range of transformations.
Work within the metric system.
Understand ideas of space and shape.
Use ruler, a pair of compasses and protractor appropriately.

Statistics
Understand basic ideas of statistical averages.
Use a range of statistical techniques.
Use basic ideas of probability.

Learners should be able to use and apply standard mathematical techniques by accurately
recalling facts, terminology and definitions; using and interpreting notation correctly; and
accurately carrying out routine procedures or set tasks that require multi-step solutions.

Learners should also be able to demonstrate problem-solving skills by translating problems in

mathematical or non-mathematical contexts into a process or a series of mathematical processes.

Learners should be able to demonstrate mathematical reasoning skills by:

making deductions and drawing conclusions from mathematical information
constructing chains of reasoning
presenting arguments and proofs
interpreting and communicating information accurately.

12 Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular)

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
Unit 1: Foundation Tier
Specification points have been selected for Unit 1 Foundation Tier from the overall body of subject
content from the International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (4MA1) linear qualification.
At unit level, the specification points will not necessarily be presented sequentially.
International GCSE in Mathematics A (Modular) specification content mapping document details the
breakdown of the subject content for each unit at each tier, in relation to the International GCSE in
Mathematics (Specification A) (4MA1) linear qualification. It can be accessed from the
Pearson Qualifications webpage from Course materials: Specification and sample assessments.

AO1 Numbers and algebra

1 Numbers and the number system

What learners need to study: Notes

1.1 A understand and use integers (positive, negative

Integers and zero)
B understand place value

C use directed numbers in practical situations e.g. temperatures

D order integers
E use the four rules of addition, subtraction,
multiplication and division

F use brackets and the hierarchy of operations

G use the terms odd’, even’, prime numbers’,
factors’ and multiples’

H identify prime factors, common factors and

common multiples
1.2 A understand and use equivalent fractions, 8 2
Fractions simplifying a fraction by cancelling common 60 15
factors
in its simplest form
(lowest terms)

B understand and use mixed numbers and vulgar

fractions
C identify common denominators

D order fractions and calculate a given fraction of

a given quantity

E express a given number as a fraction of

another number

F use common denominators to add and 2 5 1 2

subtract fractions and mixed numbers
, 3 2
3 7 5 3

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular) 13

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
What learners need to study: Notes

G convert a fraction to a decimal or a percentage 3

0.6 60%
5
4
0.4444... 44.4...%
9
H understand and use unit fractions as 1
multiplicative inverses
3 5 3
5
I multiply and divide fractions and mixed 2 5 1 2
numbers
, 3 2
3 7 5 3
1.3 A use decimal notation
Decimals
B understand place value
C order decimals

D convert a decimal to a fraction or a percentage Terminating decimals

only

E recognise that a terminating decimal is a 65 13

fraction
0.65
100 20
1.4 A identify square numbers and cube numbers
Powers and
B calculate squares, square roots, cubes and
roots
cube roots

C use index notation and index laws for

multiplication and division of positive and
negative integer powers including zero

1.5 A understand the definition of a set

Set language
B use the set notation , and and
and notation
C understand the concept of the universal set E = universal set
and the empty set and the symbols for these
= empty set
sets

D understand and use the complement of a set Use the notation A'

E use Venn diagrams to represent sets

1.6 A understand that percentage’ means number of

Percentages parts per 100’
B express a given number as a percentage of
another number

C express a percentage as a fraction and as a

decimal

14 Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular)

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
 What learners need to study: Notes

1.8 A round integers to a given power of 10

Degree of
B round to a given number of significant figures
accuracy
or decimal places

C identify upper and lower bounds where values

are given to a degree of accuracy

D use estimation to evaluate approximations to By rounding values to 1

numerical calculations significant figure
1.10 A use and apply number in everyday personal,
Applying domestic or community life
number
B carry out calculations using standard units of Metric units only
mass, length, area, volume and capacity
C understand and carry out calculations using
time, and carry out calculations using money,
including converting between currencies

1.11 A use a scientific electronic calculator to

Electronic determine numerical results
calculators

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular) 15

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
2 Equations, formulae and identities
What learners need to study: Notes
2.1 A understand that symbols may be used to
Use of represent numbers in equations or variables in
symbols expressions and formulae

B understand that algebraic expressions follow the

generalised rules of arithmetic

C use index notation for positive and negative a a a a3

integer powers (including zero)
5 1
a ; a0 1
a5
D use index laws in simple cases xm xn xm n

xm xn xm n

( xm )n x mn
2.2 A evaluate expressions by substituting numerical
Algebraic values for letters
manipulation
B collect like terms
C multiply a single term over a bracket 3x(2 x 5)
D take out common factors Factorise fully

8 xy 12 y 2
E expand the product of two simple linear Expand and simplify
expressions
( x 8)( x 5)
F understand the concept of a quadratic Factorise
expression and be able to factorise such x 2 10 x 24
2
expressions (limited to x bx c )
2.4 A solve linear equations, with integer or fractional 5 x 8 12
Linear coefficients, in one unknown in which the
7( x 3) 5 x 8
equations unknown appears on either side or both sides of
the equation 4x 5
3
2
B set up simple linear equations from given data The three angles of a
triangle are a°,
(a + 10)°, (a + 20)°.
Find the value of a
2.7 A solve quadratic equations by factorisation Solve x
2
x – 30 0
Quadratic (limited to x
2
bx c 0 )
equations

16 Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular)

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
3 Sequences, functions and graphs
What learners need to study: Notes
3.3 A interpret information presented in a range To include speed/time and
Graphs of linear and non-linear graphs distance/time graphs

B understand and use conventions for

rectangular Cartesian coordinates

C plot points (x, y) in any of the four

quadrants or locate points with given
coordinates
D determine the coordinates of points
identified by geometrical information

E determine the coordinates of the midpoint

of a line segment, given the coordinates of
the two end points

F draw and interpret straight line conversion To include currency

graphs conversion graphs

G find the gradient of a straight line gradient = (increase in y)

÷ (increase in x)

H recognise that equations of the form Write down the gradient

y = mx + c are straight line graphs with and coordinates of the y
gradient m and intercept on the y-axis intercept of y = 3x + 5;
at the point (0, c)
Write down the equation
of the straight line with
gradient 6 that passes
through the point (0, 2)
I recognise, generate points and plot graphs To include x = k, y = c,
of linear and quadratic functions

Including completion of
values in tables and
equations of the form
ax + by = c

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular) 17

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
AO2 Shape, space and measure

4 Geometry
What learners need to study: Notes

4.1 A distinguish between acute, obtuse, reflex

Angles, lines and and right angles
triangles
B use angle properties of intersecting lines, Angles at a point, vertically
parallel lines and angles on a straight line opposite angles, alternate
angles, corresponding
angles, allied angles

C understand the exterior angle of a triangle

property and the angle sum of a triangle
property

D understand the terms isosceles’,

equilateral’ and right-angled triangles’ and
the angle properties of these triangles

4.2 A recognise and give the names of polygons To include parallelogram,

Polygons rectangle, square,
rhombus, trapezium, kite,
pentagon, hexagon and
octagon

B understand and use the term quadrilateral’ The four angles of a

and the angle sum property of quadrilateral are 90 ,
quadrilaterals
(x + 15) , (x +25) and
(x + 35)
Find the value of x

C understand and use the properties of the

parallelogram, rectangle, square, rhombus,
trapezium and kite

4.4 F understand and use the relationship

Measures between average speed, distance and time
G use compound measure such as speed, Formula for pressure will
density and pressure be given

4.7 A give informal reasons, where required, Reasons will only be

Geometrical when arriving at numerical solutions to required for geometrical
reasoning geometrical problems calculations based on lines
(including chords and
tangents), triangles or
polygons

18 Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular)

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
 What learners need to study: Notes

4.8 A know, understand and use Pythagoras’

Trigonometry theorem in two dimensions
and Pythagoras’
B know, understand and use sine, cosine and
theorem
tangent of acute angles to determine
lengths and angles of a right-angled triangle

C apply trigonometrical methods to solve To include bearings

problems in two dimensions
2 2
4.9 A convert measurements within the metric e.g. cm to m and vice
Mensuration of system to include linear and area units versa
2D shapes
B find the perimeter of shapes made from
triangles and rectangles

C find the area of simple shapes using the

formulae for the areas of triangles and
rectangles

D find the area of parallelograms and trapezia

E find circumferences and areas of circles
using relevant formulae; find perimeters
and areas of semicircles
4.10 A recognise and give the names of solids To include cube, cuboid,
3D shapes and prism, pyramid, cylinder,
volume sphere and cone

B understand the terms face’, edge’ and

vertex’ in the context of 3D solids

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular) 19

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
AO3 Handling data

6 Statistics and probability

What learners need to study: Notes

6.1 A(i) use different methods of presenting data two-way tables

Graphical
representation of
data
6.3 A understand the language of probability Outcomes, equal
Probability likelihood, events,
random

B understand and use the probability scale P(certainty) = 1

P(impossibility) = 0
C understand and use estimates or measures
of probability from theoretical models

D find probabilities from a Venn diagram

E understand the concepts of a sample space For the tossing of two
and an event, and how the probability of an coins, the sample space
event happening can be determined from can be listed as:
the sample space
Heads (H), Tails (T):
(H, H), (H, T), (T, H),
(T, T)
F list all the outcomes for single events and
for two successive events in a systematic
way

G estimate probabilities from previously

collected data

H calculate the probability of the complement P ( A ) = 1 – P(A)

of an event happening

I use the addition rule of probability for P(either A or B occurring)

mutually exclusive events
= P(A) + P(B)
when A and B are
mutually exclusive
J understand and use the term expected Determine an estimate
frequency’ of the number of times
an event with a
probability of 0.4 will
happen over 300 tries

20 Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular)

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
Unit 1: Higher Tier
Questions will assume knowledge from Unit 1 Foundation Tier subject content.
Specification points have been selected for Unit 1 Higher Tier from the overall body of subject
content from the International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (4MA1) linear qualification.
At unit level, the specification points will not necessarily be presented sequentially.
International GCSE in Mathematics A (Modular) specification content mapping document details the
breakdown of the subject content for each unit at each tier, in relation to the International GCSE in
Mathematics (Specification A) (4MA1) linear qualification. It can be accessed from the
Pearson Qualifications webpage from Course materials: Specification and sample assessments.

AO1 Numbers and algebra

1 Numbers and the number system
What learners need to study: Notes
1.3 A convert recurring decimals into fractions 29
Decimals
0.32 0.322...
90
1.4 A understand the meaning of surds Simplify:
Powers and roots
8 3 32
B manipulate surds, including rationalising a Express in the form
denominator
a b 2 : (3 5 2) 2
Rationalise:
2 1
;
8 2 3
C use index laws to simplify and evaluate Evaluate:
numerical expressions involving integer, 3
1
fractional and negative powers 3 2 1 2
8 , 625 , 2
25
1.5 A understand sets defined in algebraic terms, If A is a subset of B, then
Set language and and understand and use subsets A B
notation
B use Venn diagrams to represent sets and
the number of elements in sets
C use the notation n(A) for the number of
elements in the set A
D use sets in practical situations
1.8 A solve problems using upper and lower The dimensions of a
Degree of bounds where values are given to a degree rectangle are 12 cm and
accuracy of accuracy 8 cm to the nearest cm
Calculate, to 3 significant
figures, the smallest
possible area as a
percentage of the largest
possible area

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular) 21

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
2 Equations, formulae and identities
What learners need to study: Notes
2.1 A use index notation involving fractional,
Use of symbols negative and zero powers

2.2 A expand the product of two or more linear Expand and simplify
Algebraic expressions
(x + 2)(x + 3)(x – 1)
manipulation
B understand the concept of a quadratic Factorise
expression and be able to factorise such
expressions
6 x2 – 5x – 6

C manipulate algebraic fractions where the Express as a single

numerator and/or the denominator can be fraction
numeric, linear or quadratic
3x 1 x 2
x 2 x 1
Simplify

2 x 2 3x
4 x2 9
2
D complete the square for a given quadratic Write 2x + 6x – 1 in the
expression form
2
a(x + b) + c
2
2.7 A solve quadratic equations by factorisation 2x – 3x + 1 = 0,
Quadratic
x(3x – 2) = 5
equations
B solve quadratic equations by using the
quadratic formula or completing the square

C form and solve quadratic equations from

data given in a context

22 Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular)

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
3 Sequences, functions and graphs
What learners need to study: Notes
3.3 A recognise, plot and draw graphs with y x3
Graphs equation:
y 3x3 2 x 2 5 x 4
3 2
y Ax Bx Cx D in which:
y 2 x3 6 x 2
V 60 w(60 w)
(i) the constants are integers and
some could be zero

(ii) the letters x and y can be replaced

with any other two letters or:
1
y ,x 0,
E F x
3 2
y Ax Bx Cx D 1
x x2 y 2 x 2 3x ,
in which: x
x 0,
1
(i) the constants are numerical and at y (3 x 2 5),
least three of them are zero x
x 0,
(ii) the letters x and y can be replaced
with any other two letters
5
w ,d 0
d2

y sin x, y cos x, y tan x for angles of

any size (in degrees)

F calculate the gradient of a straight line given Find the equation of the
the coordinates of two points straight line through

(1, 7) and (2, 9)

G find the equation of a straight line parallel to Find the equation of the
a given line; find the equation of a straight line perpendicular to
line perpendicular to a given line
y = 2x + 5 through the
point (3, 7)

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular) 23

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
AO2 Shape, space and measure

4 Geometry
What learners need to study: Notes

4.7 A provide reasons, using standard

Geometrical geometrical statements, to support
reasoning numerical values for angles obtained in any
geometrical context involving lines,
polygons and circles

4.8 A understand and use sine, cosine and

Trigonometry and tangent of obtuse angles
Pythagoras’
B understand and use angles of elevation and
theorem
depression

C understand and use the sine and cosine

rules for any triangle

D use Pythagoras’ theorem in three dimensions

E understand and use the formula
1
ab sin C
2
for the area of a triangle

F apply trigonometrical methods to solve The angle between two

problems in three dimensions, including planes will not be
finding the angle between a line and a plane required

4.9 A find perimeters and areas of sectors of Radian measure is

Mensuration circles excluded

AO3 Handling data

6 Statistics and probability

What learners need to study: Notes
6.1 A construct and interpret histograms For continuous
Graphical variables with unequal
representation class intervals
of data

6.3 A draw and use tree diagrams

Probability
B determine the probability that two or more
independent events will occur
C use simple conditional probability when Picking two balls out of
combining events a bag, one after the
other, without
replacement
D apply probability to simple problems

24 Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular)

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
Unit 2: Foundation Tier

Questions will assume knowledge from Unit 1 Foundation Tier subject content.
Specification points have been selected for Unit 2 Foundation Tier from the overall body of subject
content from the International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (4MA1) linear qualification.
At unit level, the specification points will not necessarily be presented sequentially.
International GCSE in Mathematics A (Modular) specification content mapping document details the
breakdown of the subject content for each unit at each tier, in relation to the International GCSE in
Mathematics (Specification A) (4MA1) linear qualification. It can be accessed from the
Pearson Qualifications webpage from Course materials: Specification and sample assessments.

AO1 Numbers and algebra

1 Numbers and the number system

What learners need to study: Notes

1.4 D express integers as a product of powers of 720 = 24 × 32 × 5

Powers and prime factors
roots
E find highest common factors (HCF) and lowest
common multiples (LCM)

1.6 D understand the multiplicative nature of 15

Percentages percentages as operators
15% of 120 = 120
100
E solve simple percentage problems, including
percentage increase and decrease

F use reverse percentages In a sale, prices were

reduced by 30%. The sale
price of an item was
£17.50
Calculate the original
price of the item

G use compound interest and depreciation

1.7 A use ratio notation, including reduction to its Express in the form
Ratio and simplest form and its various links to fraction 1 n
proportion notation
B divide a quantity in a given ratio or ratios Share £416 in the
ratio or
C use the process of proportionality to evaluate
unknown quantities

D calculate an unknown quantity from quantities s varies directly as t

that vary in direct proportion
Find the missing value in
a table

E solve word problems about ratio and Including maps and scale
proportion diagrams

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular) 25

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
What learners need to study: Notes

1.9 A calculate with and interpret numbers in 150 000 000 = 1.5 × 108
Standard form the form a × 10n where n is an integer and
1 a 10

26 Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular)

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024
2 Equations, formulae and identities
What learners need to study: Notes
2.3 A understand that a letter may represent an
Expressions and unknown number or a variable
formulae
B use correct notational conventions for
algebraic expressions and formulae

C substitute positive and negative integers, Evaluate 2x – 3y

decimals and fractions for words and letters when x = 4 and
in expressions and formulae y
D use formulae from mathematics and other
real-life contexts expressed initially in words
or diagrammatic form and convert to letters
and symbols
E derive a formula or expression

F change the subject of a formula where the Make r the subject of

subject appears once A r2
Make t the subject of
v u at
2.6 A calculate the exact solution of two x + y = 14, x – y = 2
Simultaneous simultaneous equations in two unknowns
2a + 5b = 12,
linear
equations 3a + b = 5
2.8 A understand and use the symbols To include double- ended
Inequalities , , and inequalities
e.g. 1 x 5

B understand and use the convention for open

and closed intervals on a number line

C solve simple linear inequalities in one variable 3x – 2 < 10, so x < 4

and represent the solution set on a number
x 5, so x 2
line
3 x+2 5
so 1 x 3
D represent simple linear inequalities on Shade the region defined
rectangular Cartesian graphs by the inequalities x 0,
y 1, x + y 5

E identify regions on rectangular Cartesian Conventions for the

graphs defined by simple linear inequalities inclusion of boundaries
are not required

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (Modular) 27

Specification – Issue 2 – March 2024 © Pearson Education Limited 2024