M Module Tips

Below are some suggestions for students who are sitting papers for modules M1 – M4 in GCE Mathematics:

Diagrams

  • Draw an appropriate diagram even if the question does not specifically require it.
  • We may award marks for an appropriate diagram.
  • The diagram should assist you in solving the question.
  • Ensure your diagram is neat, clearly labelled and large enough for you and the examiner to read easily.
  • Topics where diagrams are particularly useful are: Newton ’s Second Law, variable acceleration, and circular motion.

Vector Quantities

  • Remember that a vector quantity has direction as well as magnitude. This is particularly true when dealing with impulse and momentum. Students often lose marks by forgetting this and omitting the direction.

Relative Velocity

  • The component vector method (ai + bj), although perfectly acceptable, is not always the quickest or easiest method.

Mark Allocation

  • The marks schemes for the Mechanics examinations are designed to give as much credit as possible for mechanics rather than Pure mathematics (this is why marks are awarded for appropriate diagrams).