Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches 

MATHEMATICS: ANALYSIS AND APPROACHES HL  

Nature of subject 

This course recognizes the need for analytical expertise in a world where innovation is increasingly dependent on a deep understanding of mathematics. This course includes topics that are both traditionally part of a pre-university mathematics course (for example, functions, trigonometry, calculus), as well as topics that are amenable to investigation, conjecture and proof.  

The course allows the use of technology, as fluency in relevant mathematical software and hand-held technology is important. However, Mathematics: analysis and approaches HL has a strong emphasis on the ability to construct, communicate and justify correct mathematical arguments.  

Students who wish to take Mathematics: analysis and approaches at higher level will have strong algebraic skills and the ability to understand simple proof. They will be students who enjoy spending time with problems and get pleasure and satisfaction from solving challenging problems. 

Syllabus  

           The course consists of the study of 5 core topics.                

          1. Number and Algebra  

                  2. Functions  

                  3. Geometry and Trigonometry  

                  4. Statistics and Probability  

                  5. Calculus  

 Paper 1 (2 hours) 

 30% 

Calculator is not allowed. 

Section A: compulsory short-response questions  

Section B: compulsory extended-response questions  

Both sections based on the syllabus  

 Paper 2 (2 hours) 

 30% 

Calculator required 

Section A: compulsory short-response questions  

Section B: compulsory extended-response questions  

Both sections based on the syllabus  

Paper 3 (1 hour) 

20% 

Calculator required 

Two compulsory extended response problem-solving questions 

Internal assessment : Mathematical exploration (20%)  

Internal assessment is an individual exploration. This is a piece of written work that involves investigating an area of mathematics.   

It enables students to demonstrate the application of their skills and knowledge, and to pursue their personal interest, without the time limitations and other constraints that are associated with written examinations. The work is internally assessed by the teacher and externally moderated by the IB. 

MATHEMATICS: ANALYSIS AND APPROACHES SL  

Nature of Subject 

Mathematics SL has a syllabus which covers essentially the same topics as the core of Mathematics HL, but is taught at a less advanced level. It is intended for students who do not plan to include mathematics in their university studies. 

Syllabus 

The mathematics standard level (SL) programme consists of the study of five topics.  All topics are compulsory. Candidates are required to study all the sub-topics in each of the topics listed below as listed in the Syllabus Details. Candidates are also required to be familiar with the topics listed as prior learning. 

Topic 1: Number and algebra 

Topic 2: Functions

Topic 3: Geometry and trigonometry 

Topic 4: Statistics and probability 

Topic 5: Calculus 

Assessment 

External Assessment 80 % 

Paper 1: 1 h 30 min 

(40 %) 

No calculator allowed. 

Section A: compulsory short-response questions. 

Section B: compulsory extended-response questions 

Both sections based on the whole syllabus. 

Paper 2: 1 h 30 min 

(40 %) 

Graphic display calculator required. 

Section A: compulsory short-response questions. 

Section B: compulsory extended-response questions 

Both sections based on the whole syllabus. 

Internal Assessment 20% 

The internally assessed component of the curriculum, an individual exploration, is a piece of written work that involves investigating an area of mathematics chosen by the student. 

The exploration is internally assessed by the teacher and externally moderated by the IB.