The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus. The aims are to enable students to:

 • develop mathematical skills and apply them to other subjects and to the real world

 • develop methods of problem-solving

 • interpret mathematical results and understand their significance

• develop patience and persistence in solving problems

• develop a positive attitude towards mathematics which encourages enjoyment, fosters confidence and promotes enquiry and further learning

• appreciate the elegance of mathematics

• appreciate the difference between mathematical proof and pattern spotting

• appreciate the interdependence of different branches of mathematics and the links with other disciplines

 • appreciate the international aspect of mathematics, its cultural and historical significance and its role in the real world

• read mathematics and communicate the subject in a variety of ways

• acquire a foundation of mathematical skills appropriate to further study and continued learning in mathematics

1 Number                                                                

2 Algebra                                                                 

3 Functions

4 Coordinate geometry

5 Geometry

6 Vectors and transformations

7 Mensuration

8 Trigonometry

9 Sets

10 Probability

11 Statistics.

 Graphic display calculator requirements Candidates should be able to do the following using a graphic display calculator:

• sketch a graph

• produce a table of values for a function

• find zeros and local maxima or minima of a function

• find the intersection point of two graphs

• find mean, median, quartiles

• find the linear regression equation                                                                 

All candidates take three papers.

Candidates who have studied the Core syllabus content should be entered for Paper 1, Paper 3 and Paper 5. These candidates are eligible for grades C to G.

Candidates who have studied the Extended syllabus content should be entered for Paper 2, Paper 4 and Paper 6. These candidates are eligible for grades A* to E.

Candidates should have a graphic display calculator for Papers 3, 4, 5 and 6.

The assessment objectives (AOs) are:

AO1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of mathematical techniques.

Candidates should be able to recall and apply mathematical knowledge, terminology, and definitions to carry out routine procedures or straightforward tasks requiring single or multi-step solutions in mathematical or everyday situations, including:

• organising, interpreting and presenting information accurately in written, tabular, graphical and diagrammatic forms

• using and interpreting mathematical notation, terminology, diagrams and graphs correctly • performing calculations and procedures by suitable methods, including using a calculator

• understanding and using measurement systems in everyday use

• estimating, approximating and working to degrees of accuracy appropriate to the context and converting between equivalent numerical forms

• recognising patterns and structures

• using mathematical instruments to draw and measure to an acceptable degree of accuracy

• using technology, including a graphic display calculator.

 AO2 Reason, interpret and communicate mathematically when solving problems.

 Candidates should be able to analyse a problem, select a suitable strategy and apply appropriate techniques to obtain its solution, including:

• drawing logical conclusions from information and demonstrating the significance of mathematical or statistical results

• recognising patterns and structures in a variety of situations and forming generalisations

• communicating methods and results in a clear and logical form, using appropriate terminology, symbols, tables, diagrams and graphs

• solving unstructured problems by putting them into a structured form involving a series of processes

• applying combinations of mathematical skills and techniques to solve a problem

• solving a problem by investigation, analysis, the use of deductive skills and the application of an appropriate strategy

• using spatial awareness in solving problems

• using the concepts of mathematical modelling to describe a real-life situation and draw conclusions

• using statistical techniques to explore relationships in the real world

• using a graphic display calculator to interpret properties of functions and to solve problems

• using appropriate strategies in dealing with an investigative and a modelling task

• testing conjectures and determining their validity

• testing a mathematical model for validity and fitness for purpose. 

Weighting for assessment objectives.

The approximate weightings allocated to each of the assessment objectives (AOs) are summarised below.

EXTENDED QUESTION PAPERS AND MARK SCHEMES 

SYMBIOSIS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL