IFY Integrated Maths Module Spec v1
IFY Integrated Maths Module Spec v1
Integrated Maths
Module Specification 2025-26
© NCUK 2025 IFY Integrated Maths Module Specification 1
MODULE SPECIFICATION
The module specification represents a formal definitive statement that is kept updated and
used for the purposes of approval, delivery and reference.
Credit-equivalence 25
Please see the IFY Programme Specification for information on entry requirements.
Co-requisites
N/A
Exclusions
N/A
Context/Rationale
The IFY Integrated Maths Module equips international students with the core mathematical
knowledge and applied techniques required for success across a range of maths-related
undergraduate disciplines. Emphasising algebra, calculus, statistics, and modelling, it
develops the quantitative fluency and problem-solving abilities essential for navigating data-
driven, analytical university environments. This foundational module supports academic
achievement in progression pathways such as business, science, computing, and economics.
Mathematics underpins many academic and professional fields, from interpreting financial
trends to modelling scientific phenomena. As global industries increasingly rely on data
interpretation and quantitative reasoning, this module ensures students can understand,
apply, and critique mathematical models relevant to real-world scenarios. It reflects current
trends in digitalisation, sustainability, and data ethics by integrating statistical reasoning,
optimisation, and model evaluation into practical learning contexts.
This module has been designed to accommodate students from diverse educational and
cultural backgrounds. The learning and assessment strategy incorporates different knowledge
and skill entry points, visual representations, and flexible problem-solving approaches,
ensuring accessibility regardless of prior curriculum experience. Ethical use of data and global
case studies support inclusive engagement with mathematical ideas, helping students
connect learning to a broad range of real-world contexts.
1. Equip students with the mathematical skills and reasoning required for academic
success across disciplines, including business, science, and data-driven fields.
2. Develop students’ ability to model, interpret, and solve real-world problems using
quantitative techniques.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge/Understanding
LO number Learning Outcome Application/Subject Specific
Skills
LO1 Use algebraic, graphical, and numerical techniques to model quantitative relationships
in real-world contexts.
AC 1.1 Solve equations and Solve linear equations in one and two variables
inequalities using algebraic, using algebraic and graphical methods.
graphical, and numerical Solve quadratic equations using:
methods. o Factorisation.
±√
o Quadratic formula: 𝑥 =
o Discriminant analysis: 𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑐 to determine the
nature of roots.
Solve simultaneous equations, including:
o Two linear equations (by substitution or
elimination).
o One linear and one quadratic equation
(algebraically and graphically).
Solve inequalities, including:
o Linear inequalities in one variable.
o Quadratic inequalities using sign charts or
graphical techniques.
Apply laws of indices, including:
o 𝑎 𝑎 =𝑎
o =𝑎
o (𝑎 ) = 𝑎
o 𝑎 =1
o 𝑎 =
o 𝑎= √𝑎
Use logarithmic laws to solve equations and
simplify expressions, including:
o log(𝑎𝑏) = log 𝑎 + log 𝑏
o log( ) = log 𝑎 − log 𝑏
o log(𝑎 ) = 𝑛log 𝑎
AC 1.2 Model quantitative Identify and describe the key features of common
relationships using functions function types, including:
and graphs. o Linear: 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐
o Quadratic: 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐
o Exponential: 𝑦 = 𝑎
o Logarithmic: 𝑦 = log 𝑥
Interpret function notation and evaluate functions
for given inputs.
Use inverse functions, including finding inverse
algebraically for simple functions and interpreting
graphically.
Sketch graphs of:
o Linear and quadratic functions, identifying
intercepts and turning points.
o Exponential and logarithmic functions,
identifying asymptotic behaviour.
Use graphs to solve equations and interpret
solutions in applied contexts.
Compare different function models to assess
suitability for representing patterns in data.
LO2 Apply statistical and probability methods to interpret data and assess uncertainty in
applied scenarios.
AC 2.1 Collect, organise, and Identify and classify data types, including:
represent data using o Qualitative vs. quantitative.
appropriate statistical o Discrete vs. continuous.
methods and diagrams. Recognise and describe data sources, including:
o Primary vs. secondary data.
o Population vs. sample.
Organise data into appropriate formats such as
frequency tables or grouped data tables
Present data using a range of standard statistical
diagrams:
o Bar charts (for categorical or discrete data).
o Pie charts (simple interpretation only; creation
by hand not required).
o Histograms (including unequal class widths).
Calculate and interpret measures of central
tendency and spread:
o Mean, median, mode.
o Range, interquartile range (IQR), variance,
standard deviation.
Use appropriate diagrams and measures to
summarise and compare data sets.
AC 2.3 Use statistical models and Draw and interpret scatter diagrams for paired
hypothesis testing to data.
analyse relationships and Describe correlation qualitatively.
support decision making. Positive, negative, or no correlation.
Distinguish between correlation and causation.
Draw a line of best fit by eye and use it to make
simple predictions.
Identify when a relationship appears linear or non-
linear.
Recognise limitations of trend lines and
predictions (e.g. extrapolation risk).
Students will not be expected to calculate
correlation coefficients or regression equations.
LO3 Apply differentiation and integration techniques to analyse change, trends, and
optimisation problems across disciplines.
2 (2𝑥 + 3) 𝑑𝑥, or 3 𝑒 𝑑𝑥
LO4 Interpret and evaluate mathematical models and statistical data presented in various
formats, recognising assumptions, limitations, and implications.
AC 4.1 Interpret and evaluate Understand what different graphs show, and how
statistical graphs and to extract key information, including:
outputs to support o Bar charts, pie charts, histograms (e.g.
contextual conclusions and frequency, grouping, outliers).
decisions. o Scatter diagrams (strength and direction of
relationship).
o Time-based graphs (identify trends, peaks,
turning points).
AC 4.3 Critically assess the ethical Understand how data may be:
implications of modelling, o Collected without consent or misused.
data use, and statistical o Biased or incomplete, leading to unfair
communication conclusions.
o Taken out of context to serve particular
agendas.
Discuss ethical concerns with sample selection
(e.g. lack of representation).
Recognise misleading presentations, such as:
o Selective use of data to support a narrative.
o Truncated axes or disproportionate scaling.
o Cherry-picked time intervals or data categories.
Identify how language, graphs, or visuals might be
used to sway or manipulate opinion.
LO5 Use mathematical methods and reasoning to solve problems and communicate
quantitative ideas effectively.
AC 5.1 Apply structured Read and analyse the problem carefully to:
approaches to solve o Identify what is being asked.
unfamiliar mathematical o Extract relevant information.
problems. o Recognise key variables and relationships.
Rephrase or simplify complex or unfamiliar
wording where necessary.
Choose suitable mathematical methods based on
context and given information (e.g. algebra,
graphing, estimation, differentiation).
Break multi-step problems into smaller, logical
stages (e.g. first find a rate, then use it to calculate
a total).
Make justified assumptions or estimates if needed:
o Rounding for practical context.
o Treating variables as constant or ignoring
negligible factors.
o Stating units or limits clearly.
Use familiar skills and techniques flexibly in
unfamiliar contexts. E.g. using integration to
estimate total cost, or exponential models for
growth outside of science/business-specific
cases.
Teaching Strategy
This module adopts a blended, student-centred approach that gradually transitions learners
from teacher-led instruction to independent application. A typical week includes lectures to
introduce and model core concepts, seminars to deepen reasoning through discussion and
collaborative analysis, and workshops to apply techniques in problem-solving tasks and
exam-style contexts.
Teaching is designed to support varied learner backgrounds and emphasises task-based and
inquiry-led learning. Learners engage with real-world scenarios, develop critical thinking
through modelling and critique activities, and build confidence with structured methods
before moving into more open-ended applications. Teachers are encouraged to incorporate
project-based learning where appropriate, particularly through contextualised modelling
tasks and reflective writing activities.
Digital tools (e.g. graphing software or online visualisers) are recommended for use during
instruction to support interactive learning, though alternative methods should be provided
where access is limited. Throughout the module, students are encouraged to verbalise
Assessment Strategy
Learning
Sequence Assessment Timing
Outcomes
Summative assessment
Formative assessment is integrated throughout the module via structured activities including
weekly quizzes, topic-based problem sets, and mock exam papers. These tasks are used to check
understanding, provide feedback, and build exam readiness. Self-assessment checklists and
diagnostic tasks are embedded into teaching weeks to help students identify strengths and areas
for improvement. Teachers are encouraged to use low-stakes, feedback-driven approaches to
support confidence and engagement.
Core Texts
CGP Books (2021) Mathematics for A Level: The Textbook. Broughton-in-Furness: Coordination
Group Publications Ltd (CGP).
ISBN 9781782947233 (Print)
Electronic version available to purchase at:
https://www.cgpbooks.co.uk/secondary-books/as-and-a-level/maths/mhn72d-online-
edition-a-level-maths-textbook
Further Reading
Jordan, S., Ross, S. and Murphy, P. (2013) Maths for Science. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
ISBN 9780199644964 (Print)
Barnett, R.A., Ziegler, M.R. and Byleen, K.E. (2018) College Mathematics for Business, Economics,
Life Sciences, and Social Sciences. 14th edn. London: Pearson.
ISBN 9780134674148 (Print)
Lay, D.C., Lay, S.R. and McDonald, J.J. (2020) Linear Algebra and Its Applications. 6th edn.
London: Pearson.
ISBN 9780135851258 (Print)
ISBN 9780135851210 (eBook)
Croft, A. and Davison, R. (2010) Foundation maths. 5th edn. Harlow: Prentice Hall.
ISBN 9780273729402 (Print)
ISBN 9781292289731 (eBook)
Online Resources
Use of digital graphing tools such as Desmos or GeoGebra is required during teaching and
learning, particularly for exploring functions, modelling relationships, and visual interpretation.
Centres without access should provide alternative visual tools aligned to the same outcomes.
Worked Examples and Model Solutions – Covering key topics in algebra, probability, statistics,
and calculus.
Formula Sheets and Statistical Tables – To ensure consistency between teaching materials
and examination conditions.
Practice Materials
Past Paper Repository – A bank of previous exam questions and mock assessments.
Exam Techniques Guide – Strategies for managing time and structuring answers effectively in
mathematical exams.
Calculator Guidance – Approved methods for using scientific calculators in exams (note: no
software-based tools permitted during assessments).
An NCUK approved calculator is permitted in the examination (refer to NCUK policy ‘Calculator
Regulations’).
A calculator is required for all assessments in this specification. Students must use a
calculator that complies with the regulations outlined in the Instructions for Conducting
Examinations (JCQ). Calculators must not have the capability for symbolic algebraic
manipulation (CAS), symbolic differentiation or integration. However, graph plotting functions
are permitted.
It is the responsibility of the centre to ensure that calculators used by students meet all
regulatory requirements.
Date Section