Syllabus

Cambridge International AS &

A Level Mathematics 9709
For examination in June and November 2023, 2024 and 2025.
Also available for examination in March 2023, 2024 and 2025 for India only.

Version 1
Why choose Cambridge?
Why choose Cambridge?

Cambridge International prepares school students for life, helping them develop an informed
curiosity and a lasting passion for learning. We are part of the University of Cambridge.

Our Cambridge Pathway gives students a clear path for educational success from age 5 to 19.
Schools can shape the curriculum around how they want students to learn – with a wide range
of subjects and flexible ways to offer them. It helps students discover new abilities and a wider
world, and gives them the skills they need for life, so they can achieve at school, university
and work.

Our programmes and qualifications set the global standard for international education. They
are created by subject experts, rooted in academic rigour and reflect the latest educational
research. They provide a strong platform for students to progress from one stage to the next,
and are well supported by teaching and learning resources.

We review all our syllabuses regularly, so they reflect the latest research evidence and
professional teaching practice – and take account of the different national contexts in
which they are taught.

We consult with teachers to help us design each syllabus around the needs of their learners.
597421-2023-2025-syllab…
Consulting with leading universities has helped us make sure our syllabuses encourage
students to master the key concepts in the subject and develop the skills necessary for
success in higher education.

Our mission is to provide educational benefit through provision of international programmes

and qualifications for school education and to be the world leader in this field. Together with
schools, we develop Cambridge learners who are confident, responsible, reflective,
innovative and engaged – equipped for success in the modern world.

Every year, nearly a million Cambridge students from 10000 schools in 160 countries prepare
for their future with the Cambridge Pathway.

‘We think the Cambridge curriculum is superb preparation for university.’

Christoph Guttentag, Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Duke University, USA

Quality management
Cambridge International is committed to providing exceptional quality. In line with this
commitment, our quality management system for the provision of international
qualifications and education programmes for students aged 5 to 19 is independently
certified as meeting the internationally recognised standard, ISO 9001:2015. Learn
more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/ISO9001

Copyright © UCLES September 2020

Cambridge Assessment International Education is part of the Cambridge Assessment Group. Cambridge Assessment
is the brand name of the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES), which itself is a department
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Contents
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1 Why choose this syllabus?

...............................................................................................................2

2 Syllabus overview
......................................................................................................................
........ 6 Aims 6 Content overview 7 Structure 8 Assessment overview 12
Assessment objectives 14

3 Subject content
......................................................................................................................
...........15 Prior knowledge 15 1 Pure Mathematics 1 (for Paper 1) 15 2 Pure
Mathematics 2 (for Paper 2) 19 3 Pure Mathematics 3 (for Paper 3) 22 4 Mechanics
(for Paper 4) 27 5 Probability & Statistics 1 (for Paper 5) 30 6 Probability & Statistics
2 (for Paper 6) 33

4 Details of the assessment

.............................................................................................................36
Relationship between components 36 Examination information 36

5 List of formulae and statistical tables

(MF19)..........................................................................39

6 What else you need to know

........................................................................................................ 52
Before you start 52 Making entries 53 After the exam 54 How students, teachers and
higher education can use the grades 55 Grade descriptions 55 Changes to this
syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025 56

Important: Changes to this syllabus

For information about changes to this syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025, go to
page 56. The latest syllabus is version 1, published September 2020. There are no
significant changes which affect teaching.
Any textbooks endorsed to support the syllabus for examination from 2020 are still
suitable for use with this syllabus.
Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.

1 Why choose this syllabus?

Key benefits
The best motivation for a student is a real passion for the subject
they’re learning. By offering students a variety of Cambridge
International AS & A Levels, you can give them the greatest chance
of finding the path of education they most want to follow. With
over 50 subjects to choose from, students can select the ones
they love and that they’re best at, which helps motivate them
throughout their studies.

Following a Cambridge International AS & A Level programme

helps students develop abilities which universities value highly,
including:
• a deep understanding of their subjects
• higher order thinking skills – analysis, critical thinking,
problem solving
• presenting ordered and coherent arguments
• independent learning and research.

Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics develops a set of transferable skills.

These include the skill of working with mathematical information, as well as the ability to think
logically and independently, consider accuracy, model situations mathematically, analyse
results and reflect on findings. Learners can apply these skills across a wide range of
subjects and the skills equip them well for progression to higher education or directly into
employment.

Our approach in Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics encourages learners to be:
confident, using and sharing information and ideas, and using mathematical techniques to
solve problems. These skills build confidence and support work in other subject areas as
well as in mathematics.
responsible, through learning and applying skills which prepare them for future academic
studies, helping them to become numerate members of society.
reflective, through making connections between different branches of mathematics and
considering the outcomes of mathematical problems and modelling.
innovative, through solving both familiar and unfamiliar problems in different ways,
selecting from a range of mathematical and problem-solving techniques.
engaged, by the beauty and structure of mathematics, its patterns and its many applications to real life
situations.

‘Cambridge students develop a deep understanding of subjects and independent

thinking skills.’ Tony Hines, Principal, Rockledge High School, USA

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Why choose this syllabus?

Key concepts
Key concepts are essential ideas that help students develop a deep understanding of their
subject and make links between different aspects. Key concepts may open up new ways of
thinking about, understanding or interpreting the important things to be learned.

Good teaching and learning will incorporate and reinforce a subject’s key concepts
to help students gain: • a greater depth as well as breadth of subject knowledge
• confidence, especially in applying knowledge and skills in new situations
• the vocabulary to discuss their subject conceptually and show how different
aspects link together • a level of mastery of their subject to help them enter higher
education.

The key concepts identified below, carefully introduced and developed, will help to underpin
the course you will teach. You may identify additional key concepts which will also enrich
teaching and learning.

The key concepts for Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics are:

• Problem solving
Mathematics is fundamentally problem solving and representing systems and models in
different ways. These include:
– Algebra: this is an essential tool which supports and expresses mathematical
reasoning and provides a means to generalise across a number of contexts.
– Geometrical techniques: algebraic representations also describe a spatial relationship,
which gives us a new way to understand a situation.
– Calculus: this is a fundamental element which describes change in dynamic situations
and underlines the links between functions and graphs.
– Mechanical models: these explain and predict how particles and objects move or
remain stable under the influence of forces.
– Statistical methods: these are used to quantify and model aspects of the world around
us. Probability theory predicts how chance events might proceed, and whether
assumptions about chance are justified by evidence.

• Communication
Mathematical proof and reasoning is expressed using algebra and notation so that others
can follow each line of reasoning and confirm its completeness and accuracy.
Mathematical notation is universal. Each solution is structured, but proof and problem
solving also invite creative and original thinking.

• Mathematical modelling
Mathematical modelling can be applied to many different situations and problems, leading
to predictions and solutions. A variety of mathematical content areas and techniques may
be required to create the model. Once the model has been created and applied, the
results can be interpreted to give predictions and information about the real world.
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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Why choose this syllabus?

Recognition and progression

Our expertise in curriculum, teaching and learning, and assessment is the basis for the
recognition of our programmes and qualifications around the world. Every year thousands of
students with Cambridge International AS & A Levels gain places at leading universities
worldwide. Our programmes and qualifications are valued by top universities around the
world including those in the UK, US (including Ivy League universities), Europe, Australia,
Canada and New Zealand.

UK NARIC, the national agency in the UK for the recognition and comparison of international
qualifications and skills, has carried out an independent benchmarking study of Cambridge
International AS & A Level and found it to be comparable to the standard of AS & A Level in
the UK. This means students can be confident that their Cambridge International AS & A Level
qualifications are accepted as equivalent, grade for grade, to UK AS & A Levels by leading
universities worldwide.

Cambridge International AS Level Mathematics makes up the first half of the Cambridge
International A Level course in mathematics and provides a foundation for the study of
mathematics at Cambridge International A Level. Depending on local university entrance
requirements, students may be able to use it to progress directly to university courses in
mathematics or some other subjects. It is also suitable as part of a course of general education.

Cambridge International A Level Mathematics provides a foundation for the study of

mathematics or related courses in higher education. Equally it is suitable as part of a
course of general education.

For more information about the relationship between the Cambridge International AS
Level and Cambridge International A Level see the ‘Assessment overview’ section of
the Syllabus overview.

We recommend learners check the Cambridge recognitions database and the university
websites to find the most up-to-date entry requirements for courses they wish to study.

Learn more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/recognition

Progression to Cambridge International AS & A

Level Further Mathematics (9231)
Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics provides a good preparation for study
of Cambridge International AS & A Level Further Mathematics (9231). Teachers should be
 of Cambridge International AS & A Level Further Mathematics (9231). Teachers should be
aware that there are recommended combinations of components to study in Cambridge
International AS & A Level Mathematics (9709) to support progression to Cambridge
International AS & A Level Further Mathematics (9231).

When planning a course which supports progression to Cambridge International AS & A Level
Further Mathematics teachers should refer to the Cambridge International AS & A Level
Further Mathematics syllabus and refer to the support document Guide to prior learning for
Paper 4 Further Probability and Statistics on the Cambridge International website for more
information.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Why choose this syllabus?

Supporting teachers
We provide a wide range of resources, detailed guidance and innovative training and
professional development so that you can give your students the best possible preparation for
Cambridge International AS & A Level. To find out which resources are available for each
syllabus go to our School Support Hub.

The School Support Hub is our secure online site for Cambridge teachers where you can find
the resources you need to deliver our programmes. You can also keep up to date with your
subject and the global Cambridge community through our online discussion forums.

Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/support

Planning and preparation • Next step guides

• Schemes of work
• Specimen papers
• Syllabuses
Teaching and assessment
• Endorsed resources
• Online forums
• Support for coursework and speaking tests

• Teacher guides Support for

Cam
brid
 brid
ge
International
Learning and revision
• Example candidate responses
AS & A Level
Results
• Candidate Results Service
• Learner guides
• Past papers and mark schemes • Specimen paper answers
• Principal examiner reports for teachers • Results Analysis

Sign up for email notifications about changes to syllabuses, including new and revised
products and services at www.cambridgeinternational.org/syllabusupdates

Professional development
We support teachers through:
• Introductory Training – face-to-face or online
• Extension Training – face-to-face or online
• Enrichment Professional Development – face-to-face or online
Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/events

• Cambridge Professional Development Qualifications

Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/profdev

Supporting exams officers

We provide comprehensive support and guidance for all Cambridge exams
officers. Find out more at: www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.

2 Syllabus overview

Aims
The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.
The aims are to enable students to:
• develop their mathematical knowledge and skills in a way which encourages
confidence and provides satisfaction and enjoyment
• develop an understanding of mathematical principles and an appreciation of
mathematics as a logical and coherent subject
• acquire a range of mathematical skills, particularly those which will enable them to
use applications of mathematics in the context of everyday situations and of other
subjects they may be studying • develop the ability to analyse problems logically
• recognise when and how a situation may be represented mathematically, identify and
interpret relevant factors and select an appropriate mathematical method to solve the
problem
• use mathematics as a means of communication with emphasis on the use of clear
expression • acquire the mathematical background necessary for further study in
mathematics or related subjects.

Cambridge Assessment International Education is an education organisation and

politically neutral. The contents of this syllabus, examination papers and associated
materials do not endorse any political view. We endeavour to treat all aspects of the
exam process neutrally.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview
Content overview

Content section Assessment component

Topics included

1 Pure Mathematics 1 Paper 1 1.1 Quadratics

1.2 Functions
1.3 Coordinate geometry
1.4 Circular measure
1.5 Trigonometry
1.6 Series
1.7 Differentiation
1.8 Integration
2 Pure Mathematics 2 Paper 2 2.1 Algebra
2.2 Logarithmic and exponential functions
2.3 Trigonometry
2.4 Differentiation
2.5 Integration
2.6 Numerical solution of equations

3 Pure Mathematics 3 Paper 3 3.1 Algebra

3.2 Logarithmic and exponential functions
3.3 Trigonometry
3.4 Differentiation
3.5 Integration
3.6 Numerical solution of equations
3.7 Vectors
3.8 Differential equations
3.9 Complex numbers

4 Mechanics Paper 4 4.1 Forces and equilibrium 4.2 Kinematics of motion

in a straight line
4.3 Momentum
4.4 Newton’s laws of motion
4.5 Energy, work and power

5 Probability & Statistics 1 Paper 5 5.1 Representation of data 5.2

Permutations and
combinations
5.3 Probability
5.4 Discrete random variables
5.5 The normal distribution

6 Probability & Statistics 2 Paper 6 6.1 The Poisson distribution 6.2 Linear
 combinations of random
variables
6.3 Continuous random variables
6.4 Sampling and estimation
6.5 Hypothesis tests

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview

Structure
There are six Mathematics components available:

Pure Mathematics components:

Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1
Paper 2: Pure Mathematics 2
Paper 3: Pure Mathematics 3

Mechanics components:
Paper 4: Mechanics

Probability & Statistics components:

Paper 5: Probability & Statistics 1
Paper 6: Probability & Statistics 2

Candidates take two components for AS Level Mathematics.

Candidates take four components for A Level Mathematics.
 ‘The depth of knowledge displayed by the best A Level students makes them
prime targets for America’s Ivy League universities’
Yale University, USA

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview

Three routes for Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics

Candidates following an AS Level route will be eligible for grades a–e. Candidates following
an A Level route are eligible for grades A*–E.

Structure of AS Level and A Level Mathematics

AS Level Mathematics A Level Mathematics

Paper 1 and Paper 2 Pure Mathematics only

Paper 1 and Paper 4 Pure Mathematics and Mechanics

Paper 1 and Paper 5 Pure Mathematics and Probability & Statistics

(No progression to A Level)

Paper 1, 3, 4 and 5
Pure Mathematics,
Mechanics and
Probability & Statistics

Paper 1, 3, 5 and 6
Pure Mathematics and
Probability & Statistics
 This syllabus gives you the flexibility to design a course that will interest, challenge and

engage your learners. You are responsible for selecting a suitable combination of

components to support your learners’ further study.

Teachers should be aware that there are recommended combinations of components to
study in Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics (9709) to support progression
to Cambridge International AS & A Level Further Mathematics (9231).

When planning a course which supports progression to Cambridge International AS & A Level
Further Mathematics teachers should refer to the Cambridge International AS & A Level
Further Mathematics syllabus and refer to the support document Guide to prior learning for
Paper 4 Further Probability and Statistics on the Cambridge International website for more
information.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview

AS Mathematics (AS Level only)

Candidates take two components in the same series.

Paper 1
Pure Mathematics 1
and Paper 2
Pure Mathematics 2

(Please note, this route cannot count

towards A Level) OR
Paper 1
Pure Mathematics 1 OR
Pure Mathematics 1 OR
Paper 1
Pure Mathematics 1
and Paper 4
Mechanics

and Paper 5
Probability & Statistics 1

Please note, the Pure Mathematics only route (Paper 1 and Paper 2) is available at AS
Level only. Candidates who take the Pure Mathematics only route cannot then use their AS
result and carry forward to complete the A Level.

A Level Mathematics
Candidates take four components for Cambridge International A Level Mathematics.

All candidates take:

Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1
and
Paper 3: Pure Mathematics 3.

Then, candidates take either:

Paper 4: Mechanics
and
Paper 5: Probability & Statistics 1

OR

Paper 5: Probability & Statistics 1

and
Paper 6: Probability & Statistics 2.

Please note, it is not possible to combine Paper 4 and Paper 6. This is because Paper 6
depends on prior knowledge of the subject content for Paper 5.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview
 A Level Mathematics (Staged route)
Candidates take AS Level components in the first year and carry forward their AS Level
result. They then take two more components in another series to complete the A Level.

Year 1
(AS Level) then
Year 2
(A Level) OR
Year 1
(AS Level) then
Year 2
(A Level) OR
Year 1
(AS Level) then
Year 2
(A Level)
Paper 1
Pure Mathematics 1

Paper 3
Pure Mathematics 3

Paper 1
Pure Mathematics 1

Paper 3
Pure Mathematics 3

Paper 1
Pure Mathematics 1

Paper 3
Pure Mathematics 3
and Paper 4

Mechanics

and Paper 5
Probability & Statistics 1

and Paper 5

Probability & Statistics 1

and Paper 4

Mechanics

and Paper 5
Probability & Statistics 1

and Paper 6

Probability & Statistics 2

A Level Mathematics (Linear route)

Candidates take the A Level components in the same series.

Paper 1
Pure Mathematics 1 Paper 3
Pure Mathematics 3 OR
Paper 1
Pure Mathematics 1 Paper 3
Pure Mathematics 3
Paper 4
Mechanics
Paper 5
Probability & Statistics 1

Paper 5
Probability & Statistics 1 Paper 6
Probability & Statistics 2
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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview

Assessment overview
Pure Mathematics components
Paper 1 Paper 2

Pure Mathematics 1 1 hour 50 minutes 75 marks

10 to 12 structured questions based on the Pure Mathematics 1 subject content
Written examination
Externally assessed
60% of the AS Level
30% of the A Level
Compulsory for AS Level and A Level

Paper 3

Pure Mathematics 3 1 hour 50 minutes 75 marks

9 to 11 structured questions based on the Pure Mathematics 3 subject content
Written examination
Externally assessed
30% of the A Level only
Compulsory for A Level

Mechanics components
Paper 4

Mechanics 1 hour 15 minutes 50 marks

6 to 8 structured questions based on the Mechanics subject content
Written examination
Externally assessed
40% of the AS Level
20% of the A Level
Offered as part of AS Level and A Level
Pure Mathematics 2 1 hour 15 minutes 50 marks
6 to 8 structured questions based on the Pure Mathematics 2 subject content
6 to 8 structured questions based on the Pure Mathematics 2 subject content
Written examination
Externally assessed
40% of the AS Level
Offered only as part of AS Level

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview

Probability & Statistics components

 Probability & Statistics components
Paper 5 Paper 6

Probability & Statistics 1 1 hour 15 minutes 50 marks

6 to 8 structured questions based on the Probability & Statistics 1 subject content Written
examination
Externally assessed
40% of the AS Level
20% of the A Level
Compulsory for A Level
Probability & Statistics 2 1 hour 15 minutes 50 marks
6 to 8 structured questions based on the Probability & Statistics 2 subject content Written
examination
Externally assessed
20% of the A Level only
Offered only as part of A Level

‘Cambridge International AS & A Levels prepare students well for university

because they’ve learnt to go into a subject in considerable depth. There’s that
ability to really understand the depth and richness and the detail of a subject.
It’s a wonderful preparation for what they are going to face at university.’
 It’s a wonderful preparation for what they are going to face at university.’
US Higher Education Advisory Council

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview

Assessment objectives
The assessment objectives (AOs) are:

AO1 Knowledge and understanding

• Show understanding of relevant mathematical concepts,
terminology and notation • Recall accurately and use appropriate
mathematical manipulative techniques

AO2 Application and communication

• Recognise the appropriate mathematical procedure for a given situation
• Apply appropriate combinations of mathematical skills and techniques in solving problems
• Present relevant mathematical work, and communicate corresponding conclusions, in a
clear and logical way

Weighting for assessment objectives

The approximate weightings (± 5%) allocated to each of the assessment objectives (AOs) are
summarised below.

Assessment objectives as an approximate percentage of each component

Assessment objective Weighting in components % Paper 1 Paper 2 Paper 3 Paper 4
Paper 5 Paper 6
AO1 Knowledge and understanding 55 55 45 55 55 55 AO2 Application and
communication 45 45 55 45 45 45

Assessment objectives as an approximate percentage of each qualification

Assessment objective Weighting in AS Level % Weighting in A Level % AO1

Knowledge and understanding 55 52 AO2 Application and communication 45 48
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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.

3 Subject content

The mathematical content for each component is detailed below. You can teach the topics in
any order you find appropriate.

Information about calculator use and information about the relationships between syllabus
components can be found in 4 Details of the assessment.

Notes and examples are included to clarify the subject content. Please note that these
are examples only and examination questions may differ from the examples given.

Prior knowledge
Knowledge of the content of the Cambridge IGCSE® Mathematics 0580 (Extended
curriculum), or Cambridge International O Level (4024/4029), is assumed. Candidates
should be familiar with scientific notation for compound units, e.g. 5ms–1 for 5 metres
per second.

In addition, candidates should:

• be able to carry out simple manipulation of surds (e.g. expressing 12 as 2 3 and 26 as
3 2 ), • know the shapes of graphs of the form y kxn = , where k is a constant and n is an
integer (positive or negative) or 21 ! .

1 Pure Mathematics 1 (for Paper 1)

1.1 Quadratics
Candidates should be able to:

• carry out the process of completing the square for a quadratic polynomial ax2 + bx + c and use a
completed square form

• find the discriminant of a quadratic polynomial ax2 + bx + c and use the discriminant

• solve quadratic equations, and quadratic inequalities, in one unknown

• solve by substitution a pair of simultaneous equations of which one is linear and one is quadratic
• recognise and solve equations in x which are quadratic in some function of x.
Notes and examples

e.g. to locate the vertex of the graph of y = ax2 + bx + c or to sketch the graph

e.g. to determine the number of real roots of the equation ax2 + bx + c = 0. Knowledge of the term
‘repeated root’ is included.
By factorising, completing the square and using the formula.

e.g. x + y + 1 = 0 and x2 + y2 = 25,

2x + 3y = 7 and 3x2 = 4 + 4xy.

e.g. x4 – 5x2 + 4 = 0, 6 1 x x + − = 0, tan2x = 1 + tanx.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

1 Pure Mathematics 1
1.2 Functions
Candidates should be able to:
• understand the terms function, domain, range, one-one function, inverse function and composition of
functions

• identify the range of a given function in simple cases, and find the composition of two given functions

• determine whether or not a given function is one-one, and find the inverse of a one-one function in
simple cases
• illustrate in graphical terms the relation between a one-one function and its inverse
• understand and use the transformations of the graph of y = f(x) given by
• understand and use the transformations of the graph of y = f(x) given by
y = f(x) + a, y = f(x + a),
y = af(x), y = f(ax) and simple combinations of these.

1.3 Coordinate geometry

Candidates should be able to:
• find the equation of a straight line given sufficient information
• interpret and use any of the forms y = mx + c, y – y1 = m(x – x1), ax + by + c = 0 in solving problems

• understand that the equation

(x – a)2 + (y – b)2 = r2 represents the circle with centre (a, b) and radius r
• use algebraic methods to solve problems involving lines and circles

• understand the relationship between a graph and its associated algebraic equation, and use the
relationship between points of intersection of graphs and solutions of equations.

Notes and examples

e.g. range of : xx1 f 7 for x H 1 and

range of g f : x x 1 or x R 2 7 + ! . Including the condition that a composite function gf can only be formed
when the range of f is within the domain of g.

e.g. finding the inverse of

:.x23x 4 x 23 h for
27^h+−−1

Sketches should include an indication of the mirror line y = x.

Including use of the terms ‘translation’, ‘reflection’ and ‘stretch’ in describing transformations. Questions may
involve algebraic or trigonometric functions, or other graphs with given features.

Notes and examples

e.g. given two points, or one point and the gradient.

Including calculations of distances, gradients, midpoints, points of intersection and use of the relationship
between the gradients of parallel and perpendicular lines.
Including use of the expanded form
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0.
 x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0.

Including use of elementary geometrical properties of circles, e.g. tangent perpendicular to radius, angle in a
semicircle, symmetry.
Implicit differentiation is not included.
e.g. to determine the set of values of k for which the line y = x + k intersects, touches or does not meet a
quadratic curve.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

1 Pure Mathematics 1
1.4 Circular measure
Candidates should be able to:
• understand the definition of a radian, and use the relationship between radians and degrees • use the

formulae s r A r 21
and 2 = = i i
in solving problems concerning the arc length and sector area of a circle.

1.5 Trigonometry
Candidates should be able to:
• sketch and use graphs of the sine, cosine and tangent functions (for angles of any size, and using
either degrees or radians)

• use the exact values of the sine, cosine and tangent of 30°, 45°, 60°, and related angles

• use the notations sin–1x, cos–1x, tan–1x to denote the principal values of the inverse trigonometric
relations
sin/ tan ii i and
• use the identities cos
sin cos 1 2 2 i i + /

• find all the solutions of simple trigonometrical equations lying in a specified interval (general forms of
solution are not included).
1.6 Series
Candidates should be able to:

• use the expansion of (a + b)n, where n is a positive integer

• recognise arithmetic and geometric progressions

• use the formulae for the nth term and for the sum of the first n terms to solve problems involving
arithmetic or geometric progressions

• use the condition for the convergence of a geometric progression, and the formula for the sum to infinity
of a convergent geometric progression.

Notes and examples

Including calculation of lengths and angles in triangles and areas of triangles.

Notes and examples

Including e.g. y = 3 sinx, y = 1 – cos 2x,

y tan x . 41 = + c m r

e.g. cos s 150 , in 21 3 4321 c = = − r .

No specialised knowledge of these functions is required, but understanding of them as examples of inverse
functions is expected.

e.g. in proving identities, simplifying expressions and solving equations.

e.g. solve 3 2 sin x x + 1 0 = for − r r 1 1 , 3 5 sin cos 1 0 for 0 360 2i i − − = c c G G i .

Notes and examples

Including the notations nrf p and n!

Knowledge of the greatest term and properties of the coefficients are not required.

Including knowledge that numbers a, b, c are ‘in arithmetic progression’ if 2b = a + c (or equivalent) and are
‘in geometric progression’ if b2 = ac (or equivalent).
 Including knowledge that numbers a, b, c are ‘in arithmetic progression’ if 2b = a + c (or equivalent) and are
‘in geometric progression’ if b2 = ac (or equivalent).
Questions may involve more than one progression.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

1 Pure Mathematics 1
1.7 Differentiation
Candidates should be able to:
• understand the gradient of a curve at a point as the limit of the gradients of a suitable sequence of chords,
and use the notations
2

f′(x), f ″(x), xydd , and x y

Notes and examples

Only an informal understanding of the idea of a limit is expected.
e.g. includes consideration of the gradient of the
d
for first and second
2
d
derivatives
chord joining the points with x coordinates 2 and (2 + h) on the curve y = x3. Formal use of the general
method of differentiation from first principles is not required.

• use the derivative of xn (for any rational n), together with constant multiples, sums and differences of
functions, and of composite functions using the chain rule
• apply differentiation to gradients, tangents and normals, increasing and decreasing functions and rates of
change

• locate stationary points and determine their nature, and use information about stationary points in
sketching graphs.

1.8 Integration
Candidates should be able to:
Candidates should be able to:

• understand integration as the reverse process of differentiation, and integrate (ax + b)n (for any rational n
except –1), together with constant multiples, sums and differences
• solve problems involving the evaluation of a constant of integration
e.g. find xydd, given y x2 5 3 = + .

Including connected rates of change, e.g. given the rate of increase of the radius of a circle, find the rate of
increase of the area for a specific value of one of the variables.
Including use of the second derivative for identifying maxima and minima; alternatives may be used in
questions where no method is specified. Knowledge of points of inflexion is not included.

Notes and examples

1 d2 + >^ h .
e.g. 2 5 x x 1 dx 3 ;^ h − + , xx
23

e.g. to find the equation of the curve through (1, –2) for which . xy 2 1 x dd = +

• evaluate definite integrals Including simple cases of ‘improper’ integrals, such as 1 3 --;;
.
12
2

x xd and
x xd 0
1

• use definite integration to find

– the area of a region bounded by a curve and lines parallel to the axes, or between a curve and a line or
between two curves
– a volume of revolution about one of the axes.
A volume of revolution may involve a region not bounded by the axis of rotation, e.g. the region between y
= 9 – x2 and y = 5 rotated about the x-axis.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content
 2 Pure Mathematics 2 (for Paper 2)
Knowledge of the content for Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1 is assumed, and
candidates may be required to demonstrate such knowledge in answering questions.
2.1 Algebra
Candidates should be able to:

• understand the meaning of |x|, sketch the graph of y = |ax + b| and use relations such as |a| = |b| a2 =
b2 and
|x – a| < b a – b < x < a + b when solving equations and inequalities
• divide a polynomial, of degree not exceeding 4, by a linear or quadratic polynomial, and identify the
quotient and remainder (which may be zero)
• use the factor theorem and the remainder theorem.

2.2 Logarithmic and exponential functions Candidates should be able to:

• understand the relationship between logarithms and indices, and use the laws of logarithms (excluding
change of base)
• understand the definition and properties of ex and lnx, including their relationship as inverse functions
and their graphs

• use logarithms to solve equations and inequalities in which the unknown appears in indices
• use logarithms to transform a given relationship to linear form, and hence determine unknown constants
by considering the gradient and/or intercept.
Notes and examples
Graphs of y = |f(x)| and y = f(|x|) for non-linear functions f are not included.

e.g. |3x – 2| = |2x + 7|, 2x + 5 < |x + 1|

e.g. to find factors and remainders, solve polynomial equations or evaluate unknown coefficients. Including
factors of the form (ax + b) in which the coefficient of x is not unity, and including calculation of remainders.

Notes and examples

Including knowledge of the graph of y = ekx for both positive and negative values of k.
 Including knowledge of the graph of y = ekx for both positive and negative values of k.

e.g. 2 5 x 1 , 3 2 5 3 1x# 1− ,34xx121=+ − .

e.g.
y = kxn gives ln y = ln k + nlnx which is linear in ln x and ln y
y = k (ax) gives lny = ln k + x lna which is linear in x and ln y.

Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel 19

Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

2 Pure Mathematics 2
2.3 Trigonometry
Candidates should be able to:
• understand the relationship of the secant, cosecant and cotangent functions to cosine, sine and tangent,
and use properties and graphs of all six trigonometric functions for angles of any magnitude
• use trigonometrical identities for the simplification and exact evaluation of expressions, and in the course of
solving equations, and select an identity or identities appropriate to the context, showing familiarity in
particular with the use of
– sec t 1 an 2 2 i i / + and cosec c 1 ot 2 2 i i / + – the expansions of sin(A ± B), cos(A ± B) and tan(A ± B)
– the formulae for sin 2A, cos 2A and tan 2A – the expression of a b sin c i i + os in the forms Rsin^ h i a !
and Rcos^ h i a ! .

2.4 Differentiation
Candidates should be able to:

• use the derivatives of ex, lnx, sin x, cos x, tan x, together with constant multiples, sums, differences and
composites

Notes and examples

 Notes and examples

e.g. simplifying cos s ^ ^ x x − 30c c h h − 3 in − 60 . e.g. solving tan c i i + ot = 4, 2 5 sec tan 2i i - = , 3 2 cos s i
i + in = 1.

Notes and examples

24−

• differentiate products and quotients e.g. xx3 2 + , x2 lnx,

xel–x2.
• find and use the first derivative of a function which is defined parametrically or implicitly.

2.5 Integration
Candidates should be able to:
• extend the idea of ‘reverse differentiation’ to 1
include the integration of eax + b, ax b

+,
sin(ax + b), cos(ax + b) and sec2(ax + b)
• use trigonometrical relationships in carrying out integration
• understand and use the trapezium rule to estimate the value of a definite integral.
e.g. x = t – e2t, y = t + e2t.
e.g. x2 + y2 = xy + 7.
Including use in problems involving tangents and normals.
 Notes and examples
Knowledge of the general method of integration by substitution is not required.

e.g. use of double-angle formulae to integrate sin2x or cos2(2x).

Including use of sketch graphs in simple cases to determine whether the trapezium rule gives an over
estimate or an under-estimate.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

2 Pure Mathematics 2
2.6 Numerical solution of equations
Candidates should be able to:
• locate approximately a root of an equation, by means of graphical considerations and/or searching for
a sign change
• understand the idea of, and use the notation for, a sequence of approximations which converges to a root
of an equation
• understand how a given simple iterative formula of the form xn + 1 = F(xn) relates to the equation being
solved, and use a given iteration, or an iteration based on a given rearrangement of an equation, to
determine a root to a prescribed degree of accuracy.

Notes and examples

e.g. finding a pair of consecutive integers between which a root lies.

Knowledge of the condition for convergence is not included, but an understanding that an iteration may fail
to converge is expected.
Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel 21
Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

3 Pure Mathematics 3 (for Paper 3)

Knowledge of the content of Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1 is assumed, and
candidates may be required to demonstrate such knowledge in answering questions.
3.1 Algebra
Candidates should be able to:

• understand the meaning of |x|, sketch the graph of y = |ax + b| and use relations such as |a| = |b| a2 =
b2 and
|x – a| < b a – b < x < a + b when solving equations and inequalities
• divide a polynomial, of degree not exceeding 4, by a linear or quadratic polynomial, and identify the
quotient and remainder (which may be zero)
• use the factor theorem and the remainder theorem
• use the factor theorem and the remainder theorem

• recall an appropriate form for expressing rational functions in partial fractions, and carry out the
decomposition, in cases where the denominator is no more complicated than
– (ax + b)(cx + d)(ex + f)
– (ax + b)(cx + d)2
– (ax + b)(cx2 + d)

• use the expansion of (1 + x)n, where n is a rational number and x 1 1.

Notes and examples
Graphs of y = |f(x)| and y = f(|x|) for non-linear functions f are not included.

e.g. |3x – 2| = |2x + 7|, 2x + 5 < |x + 1|.

e.g. to find factors and remainders, solve polynomial equations or evaluate unknown coefficients. Including
factors of the form (ax + b) in which the coefficient of x is not unity, and including calculation of remainders.
Excluding cases where the degree of the numerator exceeds that of the denominator

Finding the general term in an expansion is not included.

Adapting the standard series to expand
e.g. 2 x21 1 − −
` j is included, and determining the set of values of x for which the expansion is valid in such cases is
also included.
 22 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page
Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

3 Pure Mathematics 3

3.2 Logarithmic and exponential functions Candidates should be able to:

• understand the relationship between logarithms and indices, and use the laws of logarithms (excluding
change of base)
• understand the definition and properties of ex and lnx, including their relationship as inverse functions
and their graphs

• use logarithms to solve equations and inequalities in which the unknown appears in indices
• use logarithms to transform a given relationship to linear form, and hence determine unknown constants
by considering the gradient and/or intercept.

3.3 Trigonometry
Candidates should be able to:
• understand the relationship of the secant, cosecant and cotangent functions to cosine, sine and tangent,
and use properties and graphs of all six trigonometric functions for angles of any magnitude
• use trigonometrical identities for the simplification and exact evaluation of expressions, and in the course of
solving equations, and select an identity or identities appropriate to the context, showing familiarity in
particular with the use of
– sec t 1 an 2 2 i i / + and cosec c 1 ot 2 2 i i / + – the expansions of sin(A ± B), cos(A ± B) and tan(A ± B)
– the formulae for sin 2A, cos 2A and tan 2A – the expression of a b sin c i i + os in the forms Rsin^ h i ! a
and Rcos^ h i ! a .

Notes and examples

Including knowledge of the graph of y = ekx for both positive and negative values of k.

e.g. 2 5 x 1 , 3 2 < 5 3 1x#− ,34xx121=+ − .

e.g.
y = kxn gives ln y = lnk + n ln x which is linear in lnx and ln y.
y = k (ax) gives ln y = lnk + x lna which is linear in x and ln y.
 Notes and examples

e.g. simplifying cos(x – 30˚) – 3 sin(x – 60˚).

e.g. solving tan c i i + ot = 4, 2 5 sec tan 2i i − = , 3 2 cos s i i + in = 1.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

3 Pure Mathematics 3
3.4 Differentiation
Candidates should be able to:

• use the derivatives of ex, lnx, sin x, cos x, tanx, tan–1x, together with constant multiples, sums, differences
and composites

Notes and examples

Derivatives of sin–1x and cos–1x are not required. 2 4 −

 • differentiate products and quotients e.g. xx3 2 + , x2 ln x,
xe1–x2.
• find and use the first derivative of a function which is defined parametrically or implicitly.

3.5 Integration
Candidates should be able to:
• extend the idea of ‘reverse differentiation’ to 1
include the integration of eax + b, ax b

+,
sin(ax + b), cos(ax + b), sec2(ax + b)
1
and x a
22+

• use trigonometrical relationships in carrying out integration

• integrate rational functions by means of decomposition into partial fractions
e.g. x = t – e2t, y = t + e2t.
e.g. x2 + y2 = xy + 7.
Including use in problems involving tangents and normals.

Notes and examples

1
2+.
Including examples such as 2 3x

e.g. use of double-angle formulae to integrate sin2x or cos2(2x).

Restricted to types of partial fractions as specified in topic 3.1 above.
fl
^
h, and
e.g. integration of xx1 2 + , tan x.
kx
• recognise an integrand of the form x
 • recognise an integrand of the form x
integrate such functions
^
f
h

• recognise when an integrand can usefully be regarded as a product, and use integration by parts
• use a given substitution to simplify and evaluate either a definite or an indefinite integral.
e.g. integration of x sin 2x, x2e–x, ln x, x tan–1x.

e.g. to integrate sin2 2x cos x using the substitution u = sinx.

24 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page

Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

3 Pure Mathematics 3
3.6 Numerical solution of equations
Candidates should be able to:
• locate approximately a root of an equation, by means of graphical considerations and/or searching for
a sign change
• understand the idea of, and use the notation for, a sequence of approximations which converges to a root
of an equation
• understand how a given simple iterative formula of the form xn + 1 = F(xn) relates to the equation being
solved, and use a given iteration, or an iteration based on a given rearrangement of an equation, to
determine a root to a prescribed degree of accuracy.

3.7 Vectors
Candidates should be able to:
• use standard notations for vectors, i.e.
• use standard notations for vectors, i.e.

Notes and examples

e.g. finding a pair of consecutive integers between which a root lies.

Knowledge of the condition for convergence is not included, but an understanding that an iteration may fail
to converge is expected.

Notes and examples

x
yf p, xi + yj,
x
f p, xi + yj + zk, AB , a
y
z

• carry out addition and subtraction of vectors and multiplication of a vector by a scalar, and interpret these
operations in geometrical terms

• calculate the magnitude of a vector, and use unit vectors, displacement vectors and position vectors
• understand the significance of all the symbols used when the equation of a straight line is expressed in
the form r = a + tb, and find the equation of a line, given sufficient information
• determine whether two lines are parallel, intersect or are skew, and find the point of intersection of
two lines when it exists

• use formulae to calculate the scalar product of two vectors, and use scalar products in problems involving
lines and points.
e.g. ‘OABC is a parallelogram’ is equivalent to OB = OA + OC .
The general form of the ratio theorem is not included, but understanding that the midpoint of AB has
position vector 2 OA OB 1 _ + i is expected.

In 2 or 3 dimensions.

e.g. finding the equation of a line given the position vector of a point on the line and a direction vector, or the
position vectors of two points on the line.
 Calculation of the shortest distance between two skew lines is not required. Finding the equation of the
common perpendicular to two skew lines is also not required.
e.g. finding the angle between two lines, and finding the foot of the perpendicular from a point to a line;
questions may involve 3D objects such as cuboids, tetrahedra (pyramids), etc.
Knowledge of the vector product is not required.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

3 Pure Mathematics 3
3.8 Differential equations
Candidates should be able to:
• formulate a simple statement involving a rate of change as a differential equation
• find by integration a general form of solution for a first order differential equation in which the variables are
separable
• use an initial condition to find a particular solution
• interpret the solution of a differential equation in the context of a problem being modelled by the equation.

3.9 Complex numbers

Candidates should be able to:
• understand the idea of a complex number, recall the meaning of the terms real part, imaginary part,
modulus, argument, conjugate, and use the fact that two complex numbers are equal if and only if both real
and imaginary parts are equal

• carry out operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of two complex numbers
expressed in Cartesian form x + iy
• use the result that, for a polynomial equation with real coefficients, any non-real roots occur in conjugate
pairs
• represent complex numbers geometrically by means of an Argand diagram
• carry out operations of multiplication and division of two complex numbers expressed in polar form r r
cos si in ei i i + / i ^ h

Notes and examples

The introduction and evaluation of a constant of proportionality, where necessary, is included.
Including any of the integration techniques from topic 3.5 above.
 Where a differential equation is used to model a ‘real-life’ situation, no specialised knowledge of the context
will be required.

Notes and examples

Notations Re z, Imz, |z|, arg z, z* should be known. The argument of a complex number will usually refer to
an angle i such that −r r 1 i G , but in some cases the interval 0 2 G i 1 r may be more convenient. Answers
may use either interval unless the question specifies otherwise.
For calculations involving multiplication or division, full details of the working should be shown.

e.g. in solving a cubic or quartic equation where one complex root is given.

Including the results |z1z2| = |z1||z2| and arg a _ _ z z1 2i i = rg z z 1 2 + arg_ i, and corresponding
results for division.
• find the two square roots of a complex number e.g. the square roots of 5 + 12i in exact
Cartesian form. Full details of the
working should be shown.
• understand in simple terms the geometrical
effects of conjugating a complex number and of
adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing two
complex numbers
• illustrate simple equations and inequalities involving complex numbers by means of loci in an Argand
diagram
e.g. |z – a| < k, |z – a| = |z – b|, arg(z – a) = α.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

4 Mechanics (for Paper 4)

Questions set will be mainly numerical, and will aim to test mechanical principles without
involving difficult algebra or trigonometry. However, candidates should be familiar in
particular with the following trigonometrical results:

sin i / ii , sin cos 1 2 2 i i + / .

sin c ^ h 90c - i / os i, cos s ^ h 90c - i / in i, tancos
 sin c ^ h 90c - i / os i, cos s ^ h 90c - i / in i, tancos
Knowledge of algebraic methods from the content for Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1 is assumed.

This content list refers to the equilibrium or motion of a ‘particle’. Examination questions
may involve extended bodies in a ‘realistic’ context, but these extended bodies should be
treated as particles, so any force acting on them is modelled as acting at a single point.

Vector notation will not be used in the question papers.

4.1 Forces and equilibrium
Candidates should be able to:
• identify the forces acting in a given situation
• understand the vector nature of force, and find and use components and resultants
• use the principle that, when a particle is in equilibrium, the vector sum of the forces acting is zero, or
equivalently, that the sum of the components in any direction is zero

• understand that a contact force between two surfaces can be represented by two components, the normal
component and the frictional component
• use the model of a ‘smooth’ contact, and understand the limitations of this model
• understand the concepts of limiting friction and limiting equilibrium, recall the definition of coefficient of
friction, and use the relationship F R = n or F R G n , as appropriate
Notes and examples
e.g. by drawing a force diagram.
Calculations are always required, not approximate solutions by scale drawing.
Solutions by resolving are usually expected, but equivalent methods (e.g. triangle of forces, Lami’s
Theorem, where suitable) are also acceptable; these other methods are not required knowledge, and will
not be referred to in questions.

Terminology such as ‘about to slip’ may be used to mean ‘in limiting equilibrium’ in questions.

• use Newton’s third law. e.g. the force exerted by a particle on the ground is equal and
opposite to the force exerted by
the
ground on the particle.
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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

4 Mechanics

4.2 Kinematics of motion in a straight line Candidates should be able to:

• understand the concepts of distance and speed as scalar quantities, and of displacement, velocity and
acceleration as vector quantities

• sketch and interpret displacement–time graphs and velocity–time graphs, and in particular appreciate
that
– the area under a velocity–time graph represents displacement,
– the gradient of a displacement–time graph represents velocity,
– the gradient of a velocity–time graph represents acceleration
• use differentiation and integration with respect to time to solve simple problems concerning displacement,
velocity and acceleration
• use appropriate formulae for motion with constant acceleration in a straight line.

4.3 Momentum
Candidates should be able to:
• use the definition of linear momentum and show understanding of its vector nature
• use conservation of linear momentum to solve problems that may be modelled as the direct impact of
two bodies.

Notes and examples

Restricted to motion in one dimension only. The term ‘deceleration’ may sometimes be used in the context
of decreasing speed.

Calculus required is restricted to techniques from the content for Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1.
 Questions may involve setting up more than one equation, using information about the motion of
different particles.

Notes and examples

For motion in one dimension only.

Including direct impact of two bodies where the bodies coalesce on impact.
Knowledge of impulse and the coefficient of restitution is not required.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

4 Mechanics
4.4 Newton’s laws of motion
Candidates should be able to:
• apply Newton’s laws of motion to the linear motion of a particle of constant mass moving under the action
of constant forces, which may include friction, tension in an inextensible string and thrust in a
connecting rod

Notes and examples

If any other forces resisting motion are to be considered (e.g. air resistance) this will be indicated in the
question.
 • use the relationship between mass and weight W = mg. In this component, questions
are mainly numerical, and use of
the approximate numerical
value 10(ms–2) for g is expected.
• solve simple problems which may be modelled as the motion of a particle moving vertically or on an
inclined plane with constant acceleration

• solve simple problems which may be modelled as the motion of connected particles.

4.5 Energy, work and power

Candidates should be able to:
• understand the concept of the work done by a force, and calculate the work done by a constant force
when its point of application undergoes a displacement not necessarily parallel to the force
• understand the concepts of gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy, and use appropriate
formulae
• understand and use the relationship between the change in energy of a system and the work done by the
external forces, and use in appropriate cases the principle of conservation of energy
• use the definition of power as the rate at which a force does work, and use the relationship between
power, force and velocity for a force acting in the direction of motion
• solve problems involving, for example, the instantaneous acceleration of a car moving on a hill against a
resistance.
Including, for example, motion of a particle on a rough plane where the acceleration while moving up the
plane is different from the acceleration while moving down the plane.
e.g. particles connected by a light inextensible string passing over a smooth pulley, or a car towing a trailer
by means of either a light rope or a light rigid tow bar.

Notes and examples

W F = d cos i;
Use of the scalar product is not required.

Including cases where the motion may not be linear (e.g. a child on a smooth curved ‘slide’), where only
overall energy changes need to be considered.

Including calculation of (average) power as Work done .

Time taken
P = Fv.
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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

5 Probability & Statistics 1 (for Paper 5)

Questions set will be mainly numerical, and will test principles in probability and
statistics without involving knowledge of algebraic methods beyond the content for
Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1.

Knowledge of the following probability notation is also assumed: P(A), P^ h A B, , P^ h A B+

, P(A|B) and the use of A′ to denote the complement of A.
5.1 Representation of data
Candidates should be able to:
• select a suitable way of presenting raw statistical data, and discuss advantages and/or disadvantages that
particular representations may have
• draw and interpret stem-and-leaf diagrams, box and-whisker plots, histograms and cumulative frequency
graphs
• understand and use different measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode) and variation (range,
interquartile range, standard deviation)
Notes and examples

Including back-to-back stem-and-leaf diagrams. e.g. in comparing and contrasting sets of data.

• use a cumulative frequency graph e.g. to estimate medians, quartiles, percentiles, the
proportion of a distribution above (or
below) a given
value, or between two values.
• calculate and use the mean and standard
deviation of a set of data (including grouped
data) either from the data itself or from given

totals /x and x / 2, or coded totals /^ h x a −

and x a2 /^ h − , and use such totals in solving
 and x a2 /^ h − , and use such totals in solving
problems which may involve up to two data sets.

5.2 Permutations and combinations

Candidates should be able to:
• understand the terms permutation and combination, and solve simple problems involving
selections
• solve problems about arrangements of objects in a line, including those involving
– repetition (e.g. the number of ways of arranging the letters of the word ‘NEEDLESS’) – restriction (e.g.
the number of ways several people can stand in a line if two particular people must, or must not, stand
next to each other).
Notes and examples

Questions may include cases such as people sitting in two (or more) rows.
Questions about objects arranged in a circle will not be included.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

5 Probability & Statistics 1

5.3 Probability
Candidates should be able to:
• evaluate probabilities in simple cases by means of enumeration of equiprobable elementary events, or by
calculation using permutations or combinations
• use addition and multiplication of probabilities, as appropriate, in simple cases

• understand the meaning of exclusive and independent events, including determination of whether
events A and B are independent by comparing the values of P^ h A B+ and P P ^ ^ A B h h #
• calculate and use conditional probabilities in simple cases.
5.4 Discrete random variables
Candidates should be able to:
• draw up a probability distribution table relating to a given situation involving a discrete random variable X,
and calculate E(X) and Var(X)
• use formulae for probabilities for the binomial and geometric distributions, and recognise practical
situations where these distributions are suitable models
• use formulae for the expectation and variance of the binomial distribution and for the expectation of the
geometric distribution.

Notes and examples

e.g. the total score when two fair dice are thrown. e.g. drawing balls at random from a bag containing balls
of different colours.

Explicit use of the general formula

P P ^ ^ A B, + h h = A B + P P ^ ^ h h − A B is not required.

e.g. situations that can be represented by a sample space of equiprobable elementary events, or a tree P
+ ^ = ^^ h hh may be
AB
diagram. The use of ABB
PP
required in simple cases.

Notes and examples

Including the notations B(n, p) and Geo(p). Geo(p) denotes the distribution in which pr = p(1 – p)r–1 for r = 1,
2, 3, … .

Proofs of formulae are not required.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

5 Probability & Statistics 1

5.5 The normal distribution
Candidates should be able to:
• understand the use of a normal distribution to model a continuous random variable, and use normal
distribution tables

• solve problems concerning a variable X, where X N , 2 + _n v i, including

– finding the value of P X x > 1 _ i, or a related probability, given the values of x1, n, v. – finding a
relationship between x1, n and v
given the value of P X x > 1 _ i or a related probability

• recall conditions under which the normal distribution can be used as an approximation to the binomial
distribution, and use this approximation, with a continuity correction, in solving problems.

Notes and examples

Sketches of normal curves to illustrate distributions or probabilities may be required.

For calculations involving standardisation, full details of the working should be shown.

e.g. ZXvn = _ - i

n sufficiently large to ensure that both np > 5 and nq > 5.

 32 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page
Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

6 Probability & Statistics 2 (for Paper 6)

Knowledge of the content of Paper 5: Probability & Statistics 1 is assumed, and candidates
may be required to demonstrate such knowledge in answering questions. Knowledge of
calculus within the content for Paper 3: Pure Mathematics 3 will also be assumed.
6.1 The Poisson distribution
Candidates should be able to:
• use formulae to calculate probabilities for the distribution Po^ hm
• use the fact that if X + Po^ hm then the mean and variance of X are each equal to m
• understand the relevance of the Poisson distribution to the distribution of random events, and use the
Poisson distribution as a model
• use the Poisson distribution as an approximation to the binomial distribution where appropriate
 • use the Poisson distribution as an approximation to the binomial distribution where appropriate
• use the normal distribution, with continuity correction, as an approximation to the Poisson distribution
where appropriate.

6.2 Linear combinations of random variables Candidates should be able to:

• use, when solving problems, the results that
– E(aX + b) = aE(X) + b and
Var(aX + b) = a2Var(X)
– E(aX + bY) = aE(X) + bE(Y)
– Var(aX + bY) = a2Var(X) + b2Var(Y) for independent X and Y
– if X has a normal distribution then so does aX + b
– if X and Y have independent normal distributions then aX + bY has a normal distribution
– if X and Y have independent Poisson distributions then X + Y has a Poisson
distribution.
Notes and examples

Proofs are not required.

The conditions that n is large and p is small should be known; n > 50 and np < 5, approximately.
The condition that m is large should be known; m 2 15, approximately.

Notes and examples

Proofs of these results are not required.
Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel 33
Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content

6 Probability & Statistics 2

6.3 Continuous random variables
Candidates should be able to:
• understand the concept of a continuous random variable, and recall and use properties of a probability
density function

• use a probability density function to solve problems involving probabilities, and to calculate the mean and
variance of a distribution.

6.4 Sampling and estimation

Candidates should be able to:
• understand the distinction between a sample and a population, and appreciate the necessity for
randomness in choosing samples
• explain in simple terms why a given sampling method may be unsatisfactory

• recognise that a sample mean can be regarded as a random variable, and use the facts that 2v _i=
E_X i = n and that Xn
Var

• use the fact that _X i has a normal distribution if X has a normal distribution

Notes and examples

For density functions defined over a single interval only; the domain may be infinite,
e.g. x34 for x H 1.
 e.g. x34 for x H 1.
Including location of the median or other percentiles of a distribution by direct consideration of an area using
the density function.
Explicit knowledge of the cumulative distribution function is not included.

Notes and examples

Including an elementary understanding of the use of random numbers in producing random samples.
Knowledge of particular sampling methods, such as quota or stratified sampling, is not required.

• use the Central Limit Theorem where appropriate Only an informal understanding of the
Central Limit Theorem (CLT) is
required; for large sample sizes,
the distribution of a sample mean is approximately
normal.
• calculate unbiased estimates of the population mean and variance from a sample, using either raw or
summarised data
• determine and interpret a confidence interval for a population mean in cases where the population is
normally distributed with known variance or where a large sample is used
• determine, from a large sample, an approximate confidence interval for a population proportion.
Only a simple understanding of the term ‘unbiased’ is required, e.g. that although individual estimates will
vary the process gives an accurate result ‘on average’.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content
6 Probability & Statistics 2
6.5 Hypothesis tests
Candidates should be able to:
• understand the nature of a hypothesis test, the difference between one-tailed and two-tailed tests, and the
terms null hypothesis, alternative hypothesis, significance level, rejection region (or critical region),
acceptance region and test statistic
• formulate hypotheses and carry out a hypothesis test in the context of a single observation from a population
which has a binomial or Poisson distribution, using
– direct evaluation of probabilities
– a normal approximation to the binomial or the Poisson distribution, where appropriate
• formulate hypotheses and carry out a hypothesis test concerning the population mean in cases where the
population is normally distributed with known variance or where a large sample is used
• understand the terms Type I error and Type II error in relation to hypothesis tests
• calculate the probabilities of making Type I and Type II errors in specific situations involving tests based on
a normal distribution or direct evaluation of binomial or Poisson probabilities.

Notes and examples

Outcomes of hypothesis tests are expected to be interpreted in terms of the contexts in which questions
are set.
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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.

4 Details of the assessment

Relationship between components

Candidates build their knowledge of the mathematics content as they progress

through the course. Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1 is the foundation for all other

components.
Paper 2: Pure Mathematics 2 and Paper 3: Pure Mathematics 3 build on the subject
content for Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1.

Paper 4: Mechanics and Paper 5: Probability & Statistics 1 components assume prior
knowledge of the Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1 content.

Paper 5: Probability & Statistics 1 is the foundation for studying Paper 6: Probability & Statistics 2.

Candidates may not take both Paper 2 and Paper 3 in the same examination series. Paper 2
and Paper 3 are taken in alternative routes through the qualification – Paper 2 is for AS Level
only, and Paper 3 is for A Level. Paper 2 subject content is largely a subset of the Paper 3
subject content.

Examination information
All components are assessed by written examinations which are externally marked. Sample
All components are assessed by written examinations which are externally marked. Sample
assessment materials are available on our website at www.cambridgeinternational.org
showing the question style and level of the examination papers.

Application of mathematical techniques

As well as demonstrating the appropriate techniques, candidates need to apply their
knowledge in solving problems. Individual examination questions may involve ideas and
methods from more than one section of the subject content for that component.

The main focus of examination questions will be the AS & A Level Mathematics subject
content. However, in examination questions, candidates may need to make use of prior
knowledge and mathematical techniques from previous study, as listed in section 3 of this
syllabus.

Structure of the question paper

All questions in the examination papers are compulsory. An approximate number of
questions for each paper is given in the Assessment overview in section 2 of this syllabus.
Questions are of varied lengths and often contain several parts, labelled (a), (b), (c), which
may have sub-parts (i), (ii), (iii), as needed. Some questions might require candidates to
sketch graphs or diagrams, or draw accurate graphs.

Answer space
Candidates answer on the question paper. All working should be shown neatly and clearly in
the spaces provided for each question. New questions often start on a fresh page, so more
answer space may be provided than is needed. If additional space is required, candidates
should use the lined page at the end of the question paper, where the question number or
numbers must be clearly shown.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details of the assessment

Degrees of accuracy
Candidates should give non-exact numerical answers correct to three significant figures
(or one decimal place for angles in degrees) unless a different level of accuracy is
specified in the question. To earn accuracy marks, candidates should avoid rounding
figures until they have their final answer.

Additional materials for examinations

Candidates are expected to have the following equipment in examinations:
• a ruler
• a scientific calculator (see the following section).

Note: a protractor and a pair of compasses are not required.

A list of formulae and statistical tables (MF19) is supplied in examinations for the use of
candidates. A copy of the list of formulae and tables is given for reference in section 5 of this
syllabus. Note that MF19 is a combined formulae list for AS & A Level Mathematics (9709)
 syllabus. Note that MF19 is a combined formulae list for AS & A Level Mathematics (9709)
and AS & A Level Further Mathematics (9231). Some formulae in the list are not needed for
this syllabus, and are only for Further Mathematics (9231); these are listed in separate
sections labelled Further Pure Mathematics, Further Mechanics, and Further Probability &
Statistics.

Calculators
It is expected that candidates will have a calculator with standard ‘scientific’ functions available
for use in all the examinations. Computers, graphical calculators and calculators capable of
symbolic algebraic manipulation or symbolic differentiation or integration are not permitted.
The General Regulations concerning the use of calculators are contained in the Cambridge
Handbook at www.cambridgeinternational.org/examsofficers

Candidates are expected to show all necessary working; no marks will be given for
unsupported answers from a calculator.

Mathematical notation
The list of mathematical notation that may be used in examinations for this syllabus is
available on our website at www.cambridgeinternational.org/9709

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Details of the assessment

Command words
The table below includes command words used in the assessment for this syllabus. The use
of the command word will relate to the subject context.

Command word What it means

Command word What it means
Calculate work out from given facts, figures or information

Describe state the points of a topic / give characteristics and main

features Determine establish with certainty
Evaluate judge or calculate the quality, importance, amount, or value of something
Explain set out purposes or reasons / make the relationships between things evident /
provide why and/or how and support with relevant evidence
Identify name/select/recognise
Justify support a case with evidence/argument
Show (that) provide structured evidence that leads to a given result
Sketch make a simple freehand drawing showing the key features
State express in clear terms
Verify confirm a given statement/result is true

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.
 5 List of formulae and statistical tables (MF19)

PURE MATHEMATICS

Mensuration

Volume of sphere = 4 3

3 πr
Surface area of sphere = 2 4πr

Volume of cone or pyramid = 13 ⋅ ⋅ base area height

Area of curved surface of cone = πr ⋅slant height
Arc length of circle = rθ (θ in radians)

Area of sector of circle 1 2

2 = r θ (θ in radians)

Algebra
For the quadratic equation 2 ax bx c + += 0 :
24
−±−=
b b ac
xa
2
For an arithmetic series:
( 1) n u an d = + − , 1 1
2 2 ( ) {2 ( 1) } n S na l n a n d = += + −
For a geometric series:

n u ar
−
= , (1 ) ( 1) 1n
− = ≠ −, 1 ( )
n1
a r Sr
a Sr
n
r
Binomial series:

r ∞ = < −1
r ∞ = < −1
nn n n n n nn n

ab a ab a b a b b −− − ⎛⎞ ⎛⎞ ⎛⎞
12233 () 12 3
+ = + + + ++ ⎜⎟ ⎜⎟ ⎜⎟ ⎝⎠ ⎝⎠ ⎝⎠ K , where n is a positive
integer n n
⎛⎞⎜⎟=
and !
r rn r
⎝⎠ −
!( )!

2 3 ( 1) ( 1)( 2) (1 ) 1 2! 3!
x nx x x − −− + =+ + + +K, where n is rational and x <1n nn nn
n

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. List of formulae and statistical tables
(MF19)

Trigonometry

θθ
sin

tancos θ ≡
 tancos θ ≡
2 2 cos sin 1 θ θ + ≡ , 2 2 1 tan sec + θ ≡ θ , 2 2 cot 1 cosec θ + ≡ θ sin( )
sin cos cos sin AB A B A B ± ≡ ±
cos( ) cos cos sin sin AB A B A B ± ≡ m

tan tan tan( ) 1 tan tan

A B A BA B
±≡m
±

sin 2 2sin cos A AA ≡

22 2 2 cos 2 cos sin 2cos 1 1 2sin A AA A A ≡ − ≡ −≡−

2tan tan 21 tanA AA ≡ −

2

Principal values:

1 − π ⩽ 1 sin x − ⩽ 1 π , 0 ⩽ 1 cos x − ⩽ π , 11 −
2 2 1 2 2 tan x − π < < π
Differentiation
f( ) x f( ) ′ x
nxn1
nx −

ln x1x
ex ex
sin x cos x
cos x −sin x

tan x2 sec x
sec x sec tan x x

cosec x −cosec cot x x cot x2 −cosec x

1
1 tan x −2
1+ x
uv
uv dd
vu
+
xx
dd
dd
uv
−
 uv
−
vu
uv 2
xx
dd
v

If x = f( )t and y t = g( ) then ddd

yyx
=
d dd
xtt

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. List of formulae and statistical tables
(MF19)

Integration
(Arbitrary constants are omitted; a denotes a positive

constant.) f( ) x ∫f( ) d x x
nx
+
n x11

+ ( 1) n ≠ − n
1xln x ex ex sin x cos − x cos x sin x 2 sec x tan x
1
2 2x + a

1 1 tanx
−
⎛⎞⎜⎟⎝⎠ aa
1
22
1 ln 2
xa
−
+ ()x>a
x−a
a xa
1
1
22
1 ln 2
ax
+
− ()x<a
ax−

d d dd
vu

xx=− ∫∫
u x uv v x
dd

′= ∫
f( ) d ln f ( ) f( )xx x
x

Vectors
a ax

If 123 ai jk =+ + aa a and 123 bi jk =+ + bb b then 11 2 2

33 a b. =+ + = ab a b ab
a b cosθ
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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. List of formulae and statistical tables
(MF19)

FURTHER PURE MATHEMATICS

Algebra
Summations:
n
n

∑ = + , 21
n

∑ = + + , 32 2 1
6

4
r nn
( 1)
12
r nn n ( 1)(2 1)

∑ = + r nn
( 1)
r
=
1
r
=
1
r
=
1

Maclaurin’s series:
( ) f( ) f(0) f (0) f (0) f (0) 2! !r x x r x xr
2
= + + ++ + ′ ′′ K K

2
r

xxx
Trigonometry
If 12 t x = tan then:

= =+ + + + + K K (all x) x xr
e exp( ) 1 2! !
2 31 ln(1 ) ( 1) 2 3r xx x r x xr
+ + = − + −K K + − + (–1 < x ⩽ 1) r xx x r x xr+
3521

+ K K (all x)
sin ( 1) 3! 5! (2 1)!
=−+−+−+

r xx x r xr = − + −K K + − + (all x)
242

cos 1 ( 1) 2! 4! (2 )!
r xx x r x xr+ − = − + − + − +
3521

1 tan ( 1) 3 5 21
+ K K (–1 ⩽ x ⩽ 1)
r xx x

3521
+

+ K K (all x)
x xr
sinh3! 5! (2 1)!
=+ + + + +

r xx x
24 2
24 2

=+ + + + + K K (all x) xr
cosh 12! 4! (2 )!
+ − =+ + + + +

r xx x
3 5 21

1 tanh3 5 21

+ K K (–1 < x < 1)

x xr
x xr

2 sin1t
xt = + and
2

Hyperbolic functions

cos1t xt− = +
1
22

2 2 cosh sinh 1 x − ≡x , sinh 2 2sinh cosh x ≡ x x , 2 2 cosh 2 cosh sinh x ≡ x x

+ 1 2 sinh ln 1 x xx ( )−=++
1 2 cosh ln 1 x xx ( ) − = + − (x ⩾ 1)
1 tanh ln (| | 1) 1x
−⎛⎞
+=⎜⎟<⎝⎠−
11
xx
2

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. List of formulae and statistical tables
(MF19)

Differentiation
f( ) x f( ) ′ x
1
1 sin x −2
1− x
1
1 cos x −2
 1 cos x −2
−
−
1x
sinh x cosh x
cosh x sinh x
tanh x2 sech x
1
1 sinh x −2
1+ x

1 cosh x − 1
2 x −1
1
1 tanh x −
2
1− x

Integration
(Arbitrary constants are omitted; a denotes a positive

constant.) f( ) x ∫f( ) d x x
2 4 ln| sec tan | ln| tan xx x + = + ( )| π ( ) 12 x < π
sec x 1 1 cosec x 12 −ln| cosec cot | ln| tan | x + = x x ( ) (0 ) < <x π sinh x cosh x
cosh x sinh x
2 sech x tanh x

1
2 2a x −
1
2 2x − a
1
2 2a x +
1
sin xa
−
⎛ ⎞ ⎜ ⎟ ⎝ ⎠ ( ) x < a 1 cosh xa

−
⎛ ⎞ ⎜ ⎟ ⎝ ⎠ ( ) x > a 1 sinh xa
−
⎛ ⎞ ⎜ ⎟ ⎝⎠
 Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel 43 6
Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. List of formulae and statistical tables
(MF19)

MECHANICS

Uniformly accelerated motion

v u at = + , 12 s = + ( ) u vt , 1 2 2 s = + ut at ,
22
v u as = + 2

FURTHER MECHANICS
Motion of a projectile
Equation of trajectory is:
2

gx y
x Vθ
θ =−
22
tan2 cos

Elastic strings and springs

2
λ
λ
x Tl
x El
=

Motion in a circle
=,
2

For uniform circular motion, the acceleration is directed towards the centre and has
magnitude 2 ω r or 2
 magnitude 2 ω r or 2
v
r

Centres of mass of uniform bodies

Triangular lamina: 23 along median from vertex

Solid hemisphere of radius r: 38 r from centre

Hemispherical shell of radius r: 12 r from centre

Circular arc of radius r and angle 2 α: rsinα α
from centre

rα
Circular sector of radius r and angle 2α: 2 sin
from centre
3
α

Solid cone or pyramid of height h: 34 h from vertex

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. List of formulae and statistical tables
(MF19)

PROBABILITY & STATISTICS

Summary statistics
For ungrouped data:

xnΣ = , standard deviation 2 22 ( ) xx xx

 xnΣ = , standard deviation 2 22 ( ) xx xx
x For grouped data:
Σ− Σ = = − n n

Σ = Σ , standard deviation 2 22 ( ) x x f xf x
xf xf Discrete random variables
Σ− Σ = = − Σ Σ f f

E( ) X = Σxp , 2 2 Var( ) {E( )} X xp X = Σ −

For the binomial distribution B( , ) n p :
n

−
⎛⎞=⎜⎟−
(1 ) r nr p pp
, ∝ = np , 2 σ = np p (1 ) −
r
r
⎝⎠
For the geometric distribution Geo(p):

− 1p
r pp p = − ,
1 (1 )r

For the Poisson distribution Po( ) λ r

∝=

−λ λ = , ∝ = λ , 2σ=λ
e!
r
pr
Continuous random variables
E( ) f( ) d X = xx x ∫ , 2 2 Var( ) f( ) d {E( )} X x xx X =
−∫
 Sampling and testing
Unbiased estimators:

xnΣ = , 2 2
x Central Limit Theorem:

Σ−⎛⎞ Σ = = ⎜ ⎟ Σ − − − ⎝⎠
xxx
2 2 ( ) 1 () s x
11
nn n

⎛ ⎞ ⎜ ⎟ ⎝⎠
∝
σ
X~N,n
Approximate distribution of sample proportion:

(1 ) N , p p pn
⎛⎞ − ⎜ ⎟ ⎝⎠

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. List of formulae and statistical tables
(MF19)

FURTHER PROBABILITY & STATISTICS

Sampling and testing

Two-sample estimate of a common variance:

Σ − + Σ − = +−
22

( )( )
x x xx
2 11 2 2

sn n
 sn n
2
12

Probability generating functions

G ( ) E( ) X
X t t = , E( ) G (1) X X = ′ , Var( ) G (1) G (1) {G (1)} X XX X = + ′′ ′ ′ −
2

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 46 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page 9
Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. List of formulae and statistical tables
(MF19)

THE NORMAL DISTRIBUTION FUNCTION

If Z has a normal distribution with mean 0 and

variance 1, then, for each value of z, the table gives
the value of Φ(z), where

Φ(z) = P(Z ⩽ z).

For negative values of z, use Φ(–z) = 1 – Φ(z).

z 0123456789 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 ADD

0.0 0.5000 0.5040 0.5120 0.5160 0.5199 0.5279 0.5319 4 8 12 16 20 28 32 36

0.1 0.50800.5398 0.5438 0.5239 0.5517 0.5557 0.5359 0.5675 4 8 12 2416 20 28 32 36
0.2 0.54780.5793 0.5832 0.5596 0.5636 0.5910 0.5714 0.5753 4 8 12 2415 19 27 31 35
0.3 0.58710.6179 0.6217 0.5948 0.5987 0.6026 0.6064 0.6103 4 7 11 2315 19 26 30 34
0.4 0.62550.6554 0.6591 0.6293 0.6331 0.6368 0.6141 0.6443 4 7 11 2214 18 25 29 32
0.6628 0.6406 0.6664 0.6700 0.6480 0.6517 22
0.5 3 7 10 24 27
0.6736 0.6772 0.6808 0.6844
0.6 0.6915 0.6950 3 7 10 14 17 31 23
0.6879
0.7 0.69850.7257 0.7291 0.7019 0.7054 0.7088 369 3 2013 16 26 29
0.8 0.73240.7580 0.7611 0.7123 0.7357 0.7389 0.7157 0.7190 58 35 1912 15 21 24
0.76420.7881 0.7910 0.7422 0.7454 0.7673 0.7224 0.7486 8 1811 14 27 19
0.9
0.79390.8159 0.8186 0.7704 0.7734 0.7764 0.7517 0.7549 1610 13 22 25
257 2
1.0 0.8212 0.7967 0.7995 0.8023 0.7794 0.7823 15 18 20
46 24
1.1 0.8051 0.8238 0.8264 0.7852 0.8078 23
0.8413 0.8438 6 235 9 12 148
1.2 0.8289 0.8315 0.8106 0.8133
0.84610.8643 0.8665 134 10 127 9 16 19 21
1.3 0.8340 0.8365
0.86860.8849 0.8869 0.8485 0.8508 0.8531 116 8 14 16 18
1.4 0.8389 124 1
0.88880.9032 0.9049 0.8554 0.8708 0.8729 106 7 8 13 15 17
23 12
0.90660.9192 0.9207 0.8749 0.8770 0.8907 0.8577 0.8599 11 13 14
1.5 3 112 56745
0.9222 0.8925 0.8944 0.8962 0.8621 0.8790 10 11 13
1.6 112 64453
0.9082 0.9099 0.9115 0.8810 0.8830
1.7 0.9332 0.9345 44234 8 10 11
0.9131 0.9236 0.9251 0.8980 0.8997 011 0
1.8 0.93570.9452 0.9463 789 6
0.9265 0.9279 0.9015 0.9147 11 01 22322
1.9 0.94740.9554 0.9564 78 56
0.9162 0.9177 1 011 21221
0.95730.9641 0.9649 0.9370 0.9382 0.9394 6 455
2.0 0.9292 0.9306 001 12111
0.96560.9713 0.9719 0.9406 0.9484 0.9495
2.1 0.9319 344 3
0.9726 0.9505 0.9515 0.9582 000 0 11101
2.2 34 23
0.9591 0.9599 0.9608 0.9418 0.9429 00 00 10010
2.3 0.9772 0.9778 3 222
0.9664 0.9671 0.9678 0.9441 0.9525 0 000 00000
2.4 0.97830.9821 0.9826 122
0.9686 0.9732 0.9738 0.9535 0.9545 000
0.98300.9861 0.9864
2.5 0.9744 0.9750 0.9616 0.9625 111 1
0.98680.9893 0.9896
2.6 0.9633 0.9693 11 11
0.98980.9918 0.9920 0.9788 0.9793 0.9798
 2.6 0.9633 0.9693 11 11
0.98980.9918 0.9920 0.9788 0.9793 0.9798
2.7 0.9699 0.9706 1 011
0.9922 0.9803 0.9834 0.9838
2.8 0.9756 0.9761 000
0.9842 0.9846 0.9871
2.9 0.9938 0.9940 0.9767
0.9875 0.9878 0.9881
0.99410.9953 0.9955
0.9901 0.9904 0.9906 0.9808 0.9812
0.99560.9965 0.9966
0.9909 0.9925 0.9927 0.9817 0.9850
0.99670.9974 0.9975
0.9929 0.9931 0.9854 0.9857
0.99760.9981 0.9982
0.9884 0.9887
0.9982 0.9943 0.9945 0.9946
0.9890 0.9911
0.9948 0.9957 0.9959
0.9913 0.9916
0.9960 0.9961 0.9968
0.9932 0.9934
0.9969 0.9970 0.9971
0.9936
0.9977 0.9977 0.9978
0.9979 0.9983 0.9984 0.9949 0.9951
0.9984 0.9985 0.9952 0.9962
0.9963 0.9964
0.9972 0.9973
0.9974 0.9979
0.9980 0.9981
0.9985 0.9986
0.9986

Critical values for the normal distribution

If Z has a normal distribution with mean 0 and

variance 1, then, for each value of p, the table
gives the value of z such that

P(Z ⩽ z) = p.
p 0.75 0.90 0.95 0.975 0.99 0.995 0.9975 0.999 0.9995

z 0.674 1.282 1.645 1.960 2.326 2.576 2.807 3.090 3.291

10
Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel 47
Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. List of formulae and statistical tables
(MF19)

CRITICAL VALUES FOR THE t-DISTRIBUTION

If T has a t-distribution with ν degrees of freedom, then,

for each pair of values of p and ν, the table gives the value
of t such that:

P(T ⩽ t) = p.
 P(T ⩽ t) = p.
p 0.75 0.90 0.95 0.975 0.99 0.995 0.9975 0.999 0.9995

ν=1 1.000 3.078 6.314 0.816 12.71 31.82 63.66 4.303 127.3 318.3 636.6 14.09
2 1.886 2.920 0.765 1.638 6.965 9.925 3.182 4.541 22.33 31.60 7.453 10.21
3 2.353 0.741 1.533 2.132 5.841 2.776 3.747 4.604 12.92 5.598 7.173 8.610
4
0.727 1.476 2.015 0.718 2.571 3.365 4.032 2.447 4.773 5.894 6.869 4.317
5 1.440 1.943 0.711 1.415 3.143 3.707 2.365 2.998 5.208 5.959 4.029 4.785
6 1.895 0.706 1.397 1.860 3.499 2.306 2.896 3.355 5.408 3.833 4.501 5.041
7 0.703 1.383 1.833 2.262 2.821 3.250 3.690 4.297 4.781
8
0.700 1.372 1.812 0.697 2.228 2.764 3.169 2.201 3.581 4.144 4.587 3.497
9
1.363 1.796 0.695 1.356 2.718 3.106 2.179 2.681 4.025 4.437 3.428 3.930
10 1.782 0.694 1.350 1.771 3.055 2.160 2.650 3.012 4.318 3.372 3.852 4.221
11 0.692 1.345 1.761 2.145 2.624 2.977 3.326 3.787 4.140
12
0.691 1.341 1.753 0.690 2.131 2.602 2.947 2.120 3.286 3.733 4.073 3.252
13
1.337 1.746 0.689 1.333 2.583 2.921 2.110 2.567 3.686 4.015 3.222 3.646
14
1.740 0.688 1.330 1.734 2.898 2.101 2.552 2.878 3.965 3.197 3.610 3.922
15 0.688 1.328 1.729 2.093 2.539 2.861 3.174 3.579 3.883
16
0.687 1.325 1.725 0.686 2.086 2.528 2.845 2.080 3.153 3.552 3.850 3.135
17
1.323 1.721 0.686 1.321 2.518 2.831 2.074 2.508 3.527 3.819 3.119 3.505
18
1.717 0.685 1.319 1.714 2.819 2.069 2.500 2.807 3.792 3.104 3.485 3.768
19 0.685 1.318 1.711 2.064 2.492 2.797 3.091 3.467 3.745
20 0.684 1.316 1.708 0.684 2.060 2.485 2.787 2.056 3.078 3.450 3.725 3.067
21 1.315 1.706 0.684 1.314 2.479 2.779 2.052 2.473 3.435 3.707 3.057 3.421
22 1.703 0.683 1.313 1.701 2.771 2.048 2.467 2.763 3.689 3.047 3.408 3.674
23 0.683 1.311 1.699 2.045 2.462 2.756 3.038 3.396 3.660
24
0.683 1.310 1.697 0.681 2.042 2.457 2.750 2.021 3.030 3.385 3.646 2.971
25 1.303 1.684 0.679 1.296 2.423 2.704 2.000 2.390 3.307 3.551 2.915 3.232
26 1.671 0.677 1.289 1.658 2.660 1.980 2.358 2.617 3.460 2.860 3.160 3.373
27 0.674 1.282 1.645 1.960 2.326 2.576 2.807 3.090 3.291
28
29

30
40
60
120
∞

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. List of formulae and statistical tables
(MF19)

CRITICAL VALUES FOR THE 2 χ -DISTRIBUTION

 If X has a 2 χ -distribution with ν degrees of
freedom then, for each pair of values of p and ν,
the table gives the value of x such that
P(X ⩽ x) = p.
p 0.01 0.025 0.05 0.9 0.95 0.975 0.99 0.995 0.999

ν=1 0.031571 0.039821 0.023932 2.706 3.841 5.024 6.635 7.879 10.83 4.605 5.991
2 0.02010 0.05064 0.1026 0.1148 7.378 9.210 10.60 13.82 6.251 7.815 9.348 11.34
3 0.2158 0.3518 0.2971 0.4844 12.84 16.27 7.779 9.488 11.14 13.28 14.86 18.47
4 0.7107 9.236 11.07 12.83 15.09 16.75 20.51 10.64 12.59
5 0.5543 0.8312 1.145 0.8721 14.45 16.81 18.55 22.46 12.02 14.07 16.01 18.48
6 1.237 1.635 1.239 1.690 20.28 24.32 13.36 15.51 17.53 20.09 21.95 26.12
7 2.167 1.647 2.180 2.733 14.68 16.92 19.02 21.67 23.59 27.88
8 2.088 2.700 3.325 15.99 18.31 20.48 23.21 25.19 29.59 17.28 19.68
9 21.92 24.73 26.76 31.26 18.55 21.03 23.34 26.22
2.558 3.247 3.940 3.053
10 3.816 4.575 3.571 4.404 28.30 32.91 19.81 22.36 24.74 27.69 29.82 34.53
5.226 4.107 5.009 5.892 21.06 23.68 26.12 29.14 31.32 36.12
11
12 4.660 5.629 6.571 22.31 25.00 27.49 30.58 32.80 37.70 23.54 26.30
13 5.229 6.262 7.261 5.812 28.85 32.00 34.27 39.25 24.77 27.59 30.19 33.41
14 6.908 7.962 6.408 7.564 35.72 40.79 25.99 28.87 31.53 34.81 37.16 42.31
8.672 7.015 8.231 9.390 27.20 30.14 32.85 36.19 38.58 43.82
15
16 7.633 8.907 10.12 28.41 31.41 34.17 37.57 40.00 45.31 29.62 32.67
17 8.260 9.591 10.85 8.897 35.48 38.93 41.40 46.80 30.81 33.92 36.78 40.29
18 10.28 11.59 9.542 10.98 42.80 48.27 32.01 35.17 38.08 41.64 44.18 49.73
19 12.34 10.20 11.69 13.09 33.20 36.42 39.36 42.98 45.56 51.18
10.86 12.40 13.85 34.38 37.65 40.65 44.31 46.93 52.62 40.26 43.77
20
21 11.52 13.12 14.61 14.95 46.98 50.89 53.67 59.70 51.81 55.76 59.34 63.69
22 16.79 18.49 22.16 24.43 66.77 73.40 63.17 67.50 71.42 76.15 79.49 86.66
23 26.51 29.71 32.36 34.76 74.40 79.08 83.30 88.38 91.95 99.61
24 37.48 40.48 43.19 85.53 90.53 95.02 100.4 104.2 112.3 96.58 101.9
45.44 48.76 51.74 53.54 106.6 112.3 116.3 124.8 107.6 113.1 118.1 124.1
25
57.15 60.39 61.75 65.65 128.3 137.2 118.5 124.3 129.6 135.8 140.2 149.4
30
40 69.13 70.06 74.22 77.93
50
60
70
80
90
100

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. List of formulae and statistical tables
(MF19)
 WILCOXON SIGNED-RANK TEST

The sample has size n.

P is the sum of the ranks corresponding to the positive differences.

Q is the sum of the ranks corresponding to the negative differences.

T is the smaller of P and Q.

For each value of n the table gives the largest value of T which will lead to rejection of the null
hypothesis at the level of significance indicated.

Critical values of T
Level of significance
One-tailed 0.05 0.025 0.01 0.005
Two-tailed 0.1 0.05 0.02 0.01
n=6 2 0 0 0
7 3 2 1 1
8 5 3 3 3
9 8 5 5 5
10 10 8 7 7
11 13 10 9 9
12 17 13 12 12
13 21 17 15 15
14 25 21 19 19
15 30 25 23 23
16 35 29 27 27
17 41 34 32 32
18 47 40 37 37
19 53 46 43
20 60 52

For larger values of n, each of P and Q can be approximated by the normal distribution with
mean 14 n n( 1) + and variance 124 nn n ( 1)(2 1) + + .
 50 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page 13
Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. List of formulae and statistical tables
(MF19)

WILCOXON RANK-SUM TEST

The two samples have sizes m and n, where m ⩽ n.

Rm is the sum of the ranks of the items in the sample of size m.

W is the smaller of Rm and m(n + m + 1) – Rm.

For each pair of values of m and n, the table gives the largest value of W which will lead to
rejection of the null hypothesis at the level of significance indicated.

Critical values of W
Level of significance

One- 0.05 0.025 0.01 0.05 0.025 0.01 0.05 0.025 0.01 0.05 0.025 0.01
tailed 0.1 0.05 0.02 0.1 0.05 0.02 0.1 0.05 0.02 0.1 0.05 0.02
Two-
tailed

n m=3 m=4 m=5 m=6

3 6–– 11 10 – 12 11 19 17 16 20 18 28 26 24 29 27
4 6–– 10 13 12 11 14 17 21 20 18 23 25 31 29 27
5 76– 13 11 15 14 12 21 19 24 22 20 33 31 28 35
6 87– 16 14 13 17 15 26 23 21 32 29
7 876 13
8 986
9 10 8 7 10 9 7
10

Level of significance

One- 0.05 0.025 0.01 0.05 0.025 0.01 0.05 0.025 0.01 0.05 0.025 0.01
tailed 0.1 0.05 0.02 0.1 0.05 0.02 0.1 0.05 0.02 0.1 0.05 0.02
Two-
tailed

n m=7 m=8 m=9 m = 10

7 39 36 34 41 38
8 35 43 40 37 45 51 49 45 54 51
9 42 39 47 56 53 49 66 62 59 69 65
 9 42 39 47 56 53 49 66 62 59 69 65
10 61 82 78 74

For larger values of m and n, the normal distribution with mean 12 mm n ( 1) + + and variance
12 mn m n ( 1) + + should be used as an approximation to the distribution of Rm.
1

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.

6 What else you need to know

This section is an overview of other information you need to know about this syllabus. It
will help to share the administrative information with your exams officer so they know
when you will need their support. Find more information about our administrative
processes at www.cambridgeinternational.org/examsofficers

Before you start

Previous study
We recommend that learners starting this course should have studied a Cambridge IGCSE
Mathematics (Extended) or Cambridge O Level course or the equivalent. See the introduction
to section 3 of this syllabus for more details of expected prior knowledge.

Guided learning hours

We design Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses based on learners having about
180 guided learning hours for each Cambridge International AS Level and about 360 guided
learning hours for a Cambridge International A Level. The number of hours a learner needs to
achieve the qualification may vary according to local practice and their previous experience of
the subject.

Availability and timetables

All Cambridge schools are allocated to one of six administrative zones. Each zone has
All Cambridge schools are allocated to one of six administrative zones. Each zone has

a specific timetable. You can view the timetable for your administrative zone at

www.cambridgeinternational.org/timetables
You can enter candidates in the June and November exam series. If your school is in
India, you can enter your candidates in the March exam series.

Check you are using the syllabus for the year the candidate is taking the exam.

Private candidates can enter for this syllabus.

Combining with other syllabuses

Candidates can take this syllabus alongside other Cambridge International syllabuses in a
single exam series. The only exceptions are:
• syllabuses with the same title at the same level.

Note that candidates can take AS & A Level Mathematics (9709) in the same exam series with
AS & A Level Further Mathematics (9231).

Group awards: Cambridge AICE

Cambridge AICE (Advanced International Certificate of Education) is a group award for
Cambridge International AS & A Level. It allows schools to offer a broad and balanced
curriculum by recognising the achievements of learners who pass examinations in a range
of different subjects.

Learn more about Cambridge AICE at www.cambridgeinternational.org/aice

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. What else you need to know

Making entries
Exams officers are responsible for submitting entries to Cambridge International. We
encourage them to work closely with you to make sure they enter the right number of
candidates for the right combination of syllabus components. Entry option codes and
instructions for submitting entries are in the Cambridge Guide to Making Entries. Your
exams officer has a copy of this guide.

Exam administration
To keep our exams secure, we produce question papers for different areas of the world,
known as administrative zones. We allocate all Cambridge schools to one administrative
zone determined by their location. Each zone has a specific timetable. Some of our
syllabuses offer candidates different assessment options. An entry option code
is used to identify the components the candidate will take relevant to the administrative
zone and the available assessment options.

Support for exams officers

 Support for exams officers
We know how important exams officers are to the successful running of exams. We provide
them with the support they need to make your entries on time. Your exams officer will find this
support, and guidance for all other phases of the Cambridge Exams Cycle, at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Retakes
Candidates can retake Cambridge International AS Level and Cambridge International A Level
as many times as they want to. Information on retake entries is at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/entries. To confirm what entry options are available for this
syllabus, refer to the Cambridge Guide to Making Entries for the relevant series.

Equality and inclusion

We have taken great care to avoid bias of any kind in the preparation of this syllabus and
related assessment materials. In our effort to comply with the UK Equality Act (2010) we
have taken all reasonable steps to avoid any direct and indirect discrimination.

The standard assessment arrangements may present barriers for candidates with
impairments. Where a candidate is eligible, we may be able to make arrangements to enable
that candidate to access assessments and receive recognition of their attainment. We do not
agree access arrangements if they give candidates an unfair advantage over others or if they
compromise the standards being assessed.

Information on access arrangements is in the Cambridge Handbook at

www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Language
This syllabus and the related assessment materials are available in English only.

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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. What else you need to know

After the exam

Grading and reporting
Grades A*, A, B, C, D or E indicate the standard a candidate achieved at Cambridge
Grades A*, A, B, C, D or E indicate the standard a candidate achieved at Cambridge
International A Level. A* is the highest and E is the lowest grade.

Grades a, b, c, d or e indicate the standard a candidate achieved at Cambridge

International AS Level. ‘a’ is the highest and ‘e’ is the lowest grade.

‘Ungraded’ means that the candidate’s performance did not meet the standard required for
the lowest grade (E or e). ‘Ungraded’ is reported on the statement of results but not on
the certificate. In specific circumstances your candidates may see one of the following
letters on their statement of results:
• Q (PENDING)
• X (NO RESULT).

These letters do not appear on the certificate.

If a candidate takes a Cambridge International A Level and fails to achieve grade E or

higher, a Cambridge International AS Level grade will be awarded if both of the
following apply:
• the components taken for the Cambridge International A Level by the candidate in that
series included all the components making up a Cambridge International AS Level
• the candidate’s performance on the AS Level components was sufficient to merit the
award of a Cambridge International AS Level grade.

On the statement of results and certificates, Cambridge International AS & A Levels are
shown as General Certificates of Education, GCE Advanced Subsidiary Level (GCE AS
Level) and GCE Advanced Level (GCE A Level).

‘Cambridge International A Levels are the ‘gold standard’ qualification. They are
based on rigorous, academic syllabuses that are accessible to students from a
wide range of abilities yet have the capacity to stretch our most able.’
Mark Vella, Director of Studies, Auckland Grammar School, New Zealand

54 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page

 54 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page
Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. What else you need to know

How students, teachers and higher education can use the grades
Cambridge International A Level
Assessment at Cambridge International A Level has two purposes:
• to measure learning and achievement
The assessment:
– confirms achievement and performance in relation to the knowledge, understanding and
skills specified in the syllabus, to the levels described in the grade descriptions.

• to show likely future success

The outcomes:
– help predict which students are well prepared for a particular course or career and/or
which students are more likely to be successful
– help students choose the most suitable course or career.

Cambridge International AS Level

Assessment at Cambridge International AS Level has two purposes:
• to measure learning and achievement
The assessment:
– confirms achievement and performance in relation to the knowledge, understanding and
skills specified in the syllabus.

• to show likely future success

The outcomes:
– help predict which students are well prepared for a particular course or career and/or
which students are more likely to be successful
– help students choose the most suitable course or career
– help decide whether students part way through a Cambridge International A Level
course are making enough progress to continue
– guide teaching and learning in the next stages of the Cambridge International A Level course.

Grade descriptions
Grade descriptions are provided to give an indication of the standards of achievement
candidates awarded particular grades are likely to show. Weakness in one aspect of the
examination may be balanced by a better performance in some other aspect.

Grade descriptions for Cambridge International AS & Level Mathematics will be published after
the first assessment of the A Level in 2020. Find more information at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel
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Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. What else you need to know

Changes to this syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025

The syllabus has been updated. This is version 1, published September 2020.

You must read the whole syllabus before planning your teaching programme.

Changes to syllabus content • Information on routes through the qualification on pages

8–13 has been updated to improve clarity for schools.

Significant changes to the syllabus are indicated by black vertical lines either side of the text.

Any textbooks endorsed to support the syllabus for examination from 2020 are
still suitable for use with this syllabus.
 56 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page
‘While studying Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge International A Levels, students
broaden their horizons through a global perspective and develop a lasting passion for
learning.’
Zhai Xiaoning, Deputy Principal, The High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China
Cambridge Assessment International Education
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