Mathematics

St Julian's will offer three Mathematics options as part of Group 5: Mathematics: Analysis and approaches at both Higher and Standard Level and Mathematics: Applications and interpretation at Standard Level only.

The following is a quote from a curriculum review document published by the IBO in April 2017:

"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 be fascinated by 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 subject is aimed at students who will go on to study subjects with substantial mathematics content such as mathematics itself, engineering, physical sciences, or economics for example.

Mathematics: Applications and interpretation SL 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 mathematics best when seen in a practical context. This subject is aimed at students who will go on to study subjects such as social sciences, natural sciences, statistics, business, some economics, psychology, and design, for example."

You may also wish to read: IB blog on new maths courses

In previous years the Mathematical Studies (SL) course was seen as a more straightforward route through group 5, with less work / contact time involved. This is NOT the case with the new "Mathematics: applications and interpretation" course and both SL courses will have the same number of lessons and be assessed in similar ways. The IB is claiming the same level of value for each SL course and an email from them stated:

"The development of the two new subjects means that students can decide on whether they prefer a more algebraic or a more contextual route and that both of these will have equal value depending on the student’s future needs and aspirations."

So a student's aptitudes, interests and tertiary education requirements are by far the larger factors in deciding between SL courses; the old advice of "if you want to do Law then take Maths Studies so you have more time for your HL subjects" is no longer applicable.

N.B. We have been advised that Portuguese universities will only accept Mathematics: analysis and approaches (HL and SL) as equivalent to Matemática A and not Mathematics: applications and interpretation (SL). Please see careers staff for further information.

Graphical Display Calculators are mandatory for all mathematics courses at IB. The department supports ONLY the following:

• Texas TI84+,

• Texas TI84+ Silver Edition,

• Texas TI84+ C Silver Edition, or

• TI 84 Plus CE.

Other calculators are allowed by the IB but are not supported by the department. If in doubt about which calculator to buy please talk a member of the maths department before purchasing.