IB Mathematics

IB Mathematics

Why study Mathematics?
Mathematics is an essential tool for everyday life and is employed by most other areas of study on the International Baccalaureate course. From the uses of pi to imaginary numbers, Mathematics is both a relevant and inspiring subject to study for all students.

What will I learn?
The Mathematics component of the IB comprises three possible areas of study:

• Mathematical Studies (Standard Level only)
• Mathematics (Standard Level)
• Mathematics (Higher Level)

Mathematical Studies (Standard Level) caters for students with varied backgrounds and abilities. More specifically, it is designed to build confidence and encourage an appreciation of Mathematics in students who do not anticipate a need for Mathematics in their future studies. Students taking this course need to be already equipped with fundamental skills and a rudimentary knowledge of basic processes. It is roughly equivalent to AS level Mathematics.

Mathematics (Standard Level) caters for students who already possess knowledge of mathematical concepts and who are equipped with the skills needed to apply mathematical techniques correctly. The majority of these students will need a good mathematical background as they prepare for future degree studies in subjects such as Chemistry, Economics, Psychology and Business Administration. Being roughly equivalent to A-level Mathematics, it is harder than Mathematical Studies, though they are both at Standard level.

Mathematics (Higher Level) caters for students with a very good background in Mathematics who are competent in a range of analytical and technical skills. The majority of these students will be expecting to include Mathematics as a major component of their university studies, either as a course in its own right or within courses such as Physics, Engineering and Technology. Others may take this subject because they have a very strong interest in Mathematics and enjoy meeting its challenges and engaging with its problems. It is roughly equivalent to A-level Further Mathematics.

How will I learn?
Using a variety of approaches (including the use of graphical calculators and computer software) you will investigate the nature and function of Mathematics.

How will I be assessed?
The assessment for all 3 courses is by means of a project (of 1 or 2 tasks, depending on the course) worth 20%, and written papers sat at the end of the two year course, worth a total of 80%. These written papers (2 for both the Standard Level courses, 3 for the Higher Level course) have a mixture of short answer questions and long answer questions (which test the syllabus to a greater depth). The Mathematics Standard & Higher Level courses both have a non-calculator paper. The third paper for the Higher Level course assesses the optional topic.

What will I be able to do next?
The Mathematics Standard Level course will support Science based subjects at university, such as Biology and Chemistry, as well as Statistical subjects such as Psychology and Economics. The Mathematics (Higher Level) course will allow you to study mathematical subjects at university such as Physics or Engineering and , of course, Mathematics itself.

Additional information
The course will require the use of a graphical calculator (Casio fx-9750Gplus). These will be offered for sale by the college at the start of the course.

Further information on the IB programme
For more information please follow this link IB Programmme or see our IB Diploma School Pack.

Course: IB HL, SL and Studies