Math Applications
&
Interpretations SL
Course description
The IB DP Mathematics: applications and interpretation course recognizes the increasing role that mathematics and technology play in a diverse range of fields in a data-rich world. As such, it emphasizes the meaning of mathematics in context by focusing on topics that are often used as applications or in mathematical modelling. To give this understanding a firm base, this course includes topics that are traditionally part of a pre-university mathematics course such as calculus and statistics. Students are encouraged to solve real-world problems, construct and communicate this mathematically and interpret the conclusions or generalizations. Students should expect to develop strong technology skills, and will be intellectually equipped to appreciate the links between the theoretical and the practical concepts in mathematics. All external assessments involve the use of technology. Students are also encouraged to develop the skills needed to continue their mathematical growth in other learning environments. The internally assessed exploration allows students to develop independence in mathematical learning. Throughout the course students are encouraged to take a considered approach to various mathematical activities and to explore different mathematical ideas.
AIMS
The aims of all DP mathematics courses are to enable students to:
develop a curiosity and enjoyment of mathematics, and appreciate its elegance and power
develop an understanding of the concepts, principles and nature of mathematics
communicate mathematics clearly, concisely and confidently in a variety of contexts
develop logical and creative thinking, and patience and persistence in problem solving to instil confidence in using mathematics
employ and refine their powers of abstraction and generalization
take action to apply and transfer skills to alternative situations, to other areas of knowledge and to future developments in their local and global communities
appreciate how developments in technology and mathematics influence each other
appreciate the moral, social and ethical questions arising from the work of mathematicians and the applications of mathematics
appreciate the universality of mathematics and its multicultural, international and historical perspectives
appreciate the contribution of mathematics to other disciplines, and as a particular “area of knowledge” in the TOK course
develop the ability to reflect critically upon their own work and the work of others
independently and collaboratively extend their understanding of mathematics.
Assessment Model
Problem-solving is central to learning mathematics and involves the acquisition of mathematical skills and concepts in a wide range of situations, including non-routine, open-ended and real-world problems.
Knowledge and understanding: Recall, select and use their knowledge of mathematical facts, concepts and techniques in a variety of familiar and unfamiliar contexts.
Problem solving: Recall, select and use their knowledge of mathematical skills, results and models in both abstract and real-world contexts to solve problems.
Communication and interpretation: Transform common realistic contexts into mathematics; comment on the context; sketch or draw mathematical diagrams, graphs or constructions both on paper and using technology; record methods, solutions and conclusions using standardized notation; use appropriate notation and terminology.
Technology: Use technology accurately, appropriately and efficiently both to explore new ideas and to solve problems.
Reasoning: Construct mathematical arguments through use of precise statements, logical deduction and inference and by the manipulation of mathematical expressions.
Inquiry approaches: Investigate unfamiliar situations, both abstract and from the real world, involving organizing and analyzing information, making conjectures, drawing conclusions, and testing their validity. The exploration is an integral part of the course and its assessment, and is compulsory for both SL and HL students. It enables students to demonstrate the application of their skills and knowledge, and to pursue their personal interests, without the time limitations and other constraints that are associated with written examinations.