Mathematics

The study of Mathematics is a fundamental part of a balanced education. It promotes a powerful universal language, analytical reasoning and problem-solving skills that contribute to the development of logical, abstract and critical thinking. Mathematics can help make sense of the world and allows phenomena to be described in precise terms. It also promotes careful analysis and the search for patterns and relationships, skills necessary for success both inside and outside the classroom. The program places emphasis on understanding and it is expected that skills will be developed and attitudes fostered, wherever possible, in the context of inquiry and interest. As students progress from the MYP to the DP, the emphasis on understanding increases as students work towards developing a strong mathematical knowledge base that will allow them to study a wide range of topics. Through this process they also work on communicating their ideas in ways that allow others to understand their thinking. The MYP Mathematics objectives and criteria have been developed with both the internal and external assessment requirements of the DP in mind. The use of technology, which is required in DP Mathematics, is also emphasized in the MYP as a tool for learning, applying and communicating Mathematics.

Aims 

The aims of MYP Mathematics are to encourage and enable students to: 

• Enjoy Mathematics, develop curiosity and begin to appreciate its elegance and power.

• Develop an understanding of the principles and nature of Mathematics.

• Communicate clearly and confidently in a variety of contexts.

• Develop logical, critical and creative thinking.

• Develop confidence, perseverance, and independence in mathematical thinking and problem solving.

• Develop powers of generalization and abstraction.

• Apply and transfer skills to a wide range of reallife situations, other areas of knowledge and future developments.

• Appreciate how developments in technology and Mathematics have influenced each other.

• Appreciate the moral, social and ethical implications arising from the work of mathematicians and the applications of Mathematics.

• Appreciate the international dimension in Mathematics through an awareness of the universality of Mathematics and its multicultural and historical perspectives.

• Appreciate the contribution of Mathematics to other areas of knowledge.

• Develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to pursue further studies in Mathematics.

• Develop the ability to reflect critically upon their own work and the work of others. 

Assessment Criteria

• Criterion A: Knowing and Understanding 

• Criterion B: Investigating Patterns 

• Criterion C: Communicating 

• Criterion D: Applying Mathematics in Real–World Contexts