Standard +0.3 This is a straightforward polar curve sketching question requiring recognition that r = a/cos θ is equivalent to r cos θ = a, which is the Cartesian equation x = a (a vertical line). While polar coordinates are a Further Maths topic, this is a standard conversion with minimal problem-solving required, making it slightly easier than average.
Draws the full correct line and gives the correct intersection point on the initial line.
Answer
Marks
Guidance
Condone the angle omitted.
1.1b
A1
Total
2
Q
Marking instructions
AO
Question 4:
4 | Draws correct line.
Condone a half-line. | 1.1a | M1
Draws the full correct line and gives the correct intersection point on the initial line.
Condone the angle omitted. | 1.1b | A1
Total | 2
Q | Marking instructions | AO | Mark | Typical solution
Sketch the graph given by the polar equation
$$r = \frac{a}{\cos \theta}$$
where $a$ is a positive constant.
[2 marks]
\includegraphics{figure_4}
\hfill \mbox{\textit{AQA Further AS Paper 1 2018 Q4 [2]}}