Philosophy - Why should I study Mathematics?

As all IB Diploma students are required to complete a Mathematics course, there is less choice available in Group 5 than in the other groups. Generally, studying Mathematics will enable you to communicate efficiently in various contexts; develop logical, critical and creative thinking; develop patience and persistence in problem solving; improve your abilities in terms of abstraction and generalisation while encouraging you to apply and transfer skills to alternative situations and other areas of knowledge, including TOK. 

Course Content - What will I be studying?

Both Maths Applications, and Maths Analysis consist of 5 Core Topics and a mathematical exploration - an individual internally assessed piece of work which is worth 20% of the final mark. Depending on the pathway chosen, the focus on the core topics will vary. The choice of course and level determines how much time is spent on each topic.

The core themes are:

1. Number and Algebra

2. Functions

3. Geometry and Trigonometry

4. Statistics and Probability

5. Calculus

Why choose Mathematics Analysis and Approaches?

The Analysis pathway course places strong emphasis on acquiring the ability to construct, communicate and justify correct mathematical arguments, while making appropriate and creative use of technology, e.g. Graphic Display Calculator or computer software. It includes topics that are part of traditional pre-university courses (e.g. functions, trigonometry, calculus) as well as those in which students develop skills of mathematical investigation, making conjectures and constructing proofs (e.g. sequences and series, proofs). It is designed to support future analytical experts and the world of innovation, which more and more depend on a deep understanding of mathematics.

This course is designed for those students who enjoy the analytic side of mathematics and the use of mathematical proofs. Mathematics: Analysis and approaches at SL and HL is appropriate for students who enjoy developing their mathematics to become fluent in the construction of mathematical arguments and develop strong skills in mathematical thinking. They will also enjoy exploring real and abstract applications of these ideas, with and without the use of technology. Students who take Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches will be those who enjoy the thrill of mathematical problem solving and generalization.

This course is aimed at students who will go on to study subjects with substantial mathematical content such as Mathematics itself, Engineering, Physical Sciences, or Economics.

Why choose Mathematics Applications and Interpretations?

The Applications pathway prides itself on being practical and therefore focuses on topics that are often used as applications of mathematics, statistical  or mathematical modelling. The course also includes topics that are traditionally part of a pre-university mathematics course such as calculus and statistics to give students a better conceptual understanding of mathematics. Students will develop their mathematical and statistical thinking by solving practical problems and using technology to justify conjectures. A Graphical Display Calculator is required and allowed for all parts of the final exam.

This course is designed for those students who want to use mathematics to describe the real world. Modelling of real-world problems and statistical thinking are emphasized at Standard Level and at Higher Level, the use of vectors and matrices to describe and solve mathematical problems is taught. This course is appropriate for students who are interested in developing their mathematics for describing our world and solving practical problems. They will also be interested in harnessing the power of technology alongside exploring mathematical models. Students who take Mathematics: Applications and interpretation will be those who enjoy the thrill of mathematical problem solving in practical contexts. 

This course is aimed at students who will go on to study subjects such as Engineering, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Statistics, Business, Psychology, and Design.

Assessment - How will I be assessed by the IB? 

ANALYSIS AND APPROACHES 

• Standard Level: two examinations, 1.5h (non-calculator), 1.5h, and an Internal Assessment 

• Higher Level: three examinations, 2h (non-calculator), 2h, and 1h, and an Internal Assessment 

APPLICATIONS AND INTERPRETATION 

• Standard Level: two examinations 1.5h each and an Internal Assessment

 • Higher Level: three examinations, 2h, 2h, and 1h and an Internal Assessment 

Prerequisites - What do I need to know before choosing a Maths pathway? 

What will allow me to be successful? 

• Be curious and creative.

• Take risks.

• Be organized.

• Do not postpone work to the last minute.

• Be consistent in your effort and show perseverance.

• Be rigorous.

• Be open-minded: Mathematics is so much more than what you imagine!

What can I do with Mathematics in the future? 

Mathematics has its place in many industries and subjects. It impacts real world problems – as well as the solutions to those problems. From everyday tasks such as counting and shopping, to more detailed mathematical problems such as interpreting data, we use mathematics everywhere. People with degrees in mathematics and other qualifications can go into: accounting, medicine, engineering, forensic pathology, finance, business, consultancy, teaching, IT, games development, scientific research, programming, the civil service, design, construction and astrophysics to name a few. Specific job roles include actuary, business analyst, software engineer, technology analyst, information engineer, speech technology researcher, and Maths teacher.