IB - Group 5 - Math

GROUP 5

IB Mathematics SL

IBMA30SL - IB Math 1 SL

The IB DP mathematics standard level (SL) course focuses on introducing important mathematical concepts through the development of mathematical techniques. The intention is to introduce students to these concepts in a comprehensible and coherent way, rather than insisting on the mathematical rigour required for mathematics HL. Students should, wherever possible, apply the mathematical knowledge they have acquired to solve realistic problems set in an appropriate context. The internally assessed exploration offers students the opportunity for developing independence in their mathematical learning. Students are encouraged to take a considered approach to various mathematical activities and to explore different mathematical ideas. The exploration also allows students to work without the time constraints of a written examination and to develop the skills they need for communicating mathematical ideas.

The aims of all mathematics courses in group 5 are to enable students to:

• enjoy mathematics, and develop an appreciation of the elegance and power of mathematics

• 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, and patience and persistence in problem-solving

• employ and refine their powers of abstraction and generalization

• apply and transfer skills to alternative situations, to other areas of knowledge and to 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 disciplines, and as a particular “area of knowledge” in the TOK course