THE SHORT ANSWER
See how the subject fits together
Applied Maths is a separate subject from Mathematics. Modelling connects networks, the physical world and a changing world.
A revision map, not a prediction of which questions will appear. Official sources and scope
MORE THAN A TOPIC LIST
How is Applied Mathematics assessed?
- Written examination: 80%.
- Mathematical modelling project: 20%.
This describes the syllabus assessment components. Use the SEC instructions for your year for timing, question choices, materials and submission arrangements. Read the official assessment section. (opens in a new tab)
YOUR SUBJECT, YOUR CHECKLIST
What should I revise?
Choose the checklist for your level. Topic groups are a starting map, not every syllabus outcome. Optional cards only apply if they are part of your programme.
These are broad revision groups shared across Higher and Ordinary Level, not identical lists of learning outcomes. Use the level-specific outcomes in the linked syllabus and questions from your own level. The checklist records each level separately.
Saved in this browser, separately for each subject and level. A tick is not a mastery score.
Modelling & assumptions
Translate a real situation into a mathematical representation.
Try a practice prompt
COLLEGEROUTE PRACTICE PROMPT
Which details can reasonably be simplified in a model?
State assumptions explicitly and explain when each might fail.
Networks & graphs
Representing connected systems and solving network problems.
Try a practice prompt
COLLEGEROUTE PRACTICE PROMPT
How would you model a set of routes between locations?
Define what each vertex, edge and weight represents before applying a method.
Motion & forces
Models of physical situations.
Try a practice prompt
COLLEGEROUTE PRACTICE PROMPT
What determines the motion of an object in a given situation?
Draw the system and choose consistent directions and units.
A changing world
Mathematical models of quantities changing over time.
Try a practice prompt
COLLEGEROUTE PRACTICE PROMPT
How would you compare a model’s prediction with observed data?
Separate the starting value, change rule and time interval.
Numerical work & simulation
Using numerical and digital methods to explore models.
Try a practice prompt
COLLEGEROUTE PRACTICE PROMPT
Does using smaller steps change the result of a numerical model?
Test sensitivity instead of treating a computer output as automatically correct.
Modelling project
Investigating the problem in the current brief.
Try a practice prompt
COLLEGEROUTE PRACTICE PROMPT
How could you improve a model that fits some observations but not others?
Compare a prediction with evidence and justify the next revision.
The prompts are original study exercises, not quotations from SEC papers or predictions of examination questions. Check the official topic scope.
TURN TOPICS INTO PRACTICE
A useful next revision session
- Practise setting up a problem before doing arithmetic.
- Explain the real-world meaning of each answer.
- Keep a record of model changes and the evidence that motivated them.
After practising, write down the exact point that stopped you. Revisit that step, then try again without the notes. A tick should record work you have done, not confidence alone.
Before you narrow your revision
Does a topic’s absence last year mean it is due this year?
No. This guide does not infer question probabilities from previous papers. Use past papers to practise skills and interpret instructions, not to exclude valid syllabus content.
Should I complete every optional card?
No. Check your class’s selected programme and your level. A chosen text, elective or prescribed topic is not interchangeable with another student’s programme. Use the full official syllabus for detailed outcomes.
Are the practice prompts real exam questions?
No. They are short, original CollegeRoute study prompts designed to help you apply the topic. They do not carry an official SEC mark allocation or predict examination wording.
Sources and scope
Checked 8 September 2026. Intended for the 2027 examination cohort.
- Curriculum Online: Applied Mathematics (opens in a new tab). Official subject information, specifications and associated guidance.
- Applied Mathematics: official syllabus / specification (PDF) (opens in a new tab). Used sections: Modelling, networks and graphs, the physical world, a changing world; assessment, printed page 22.
- State Examinations Commission (opens in a new tab): examination-year instructions, official papers and marking schemes.
These are editorial revision groups, not a transcription of every learning outcome. The practice prompts and study tips are independent CollegeRoute suggestions. Your teacher’s programme, prescribed material and current official instructions remain the reference for exact requirements.