Mathematics

Mathematics — Diploma Programme

International Baccalaureate · Ages 16-19

IB Diploma Mathematics is offered as two distinct courses, each at Standard and Higher Level. Analysis and Approaches suits students heading for mathematics, engineering, physics or economics; Applications and Interpretation suits those heading for social sciences, design or business, and permits a technology-rich approach throughout.

Both cover number and algebra, functions, geometry and trigonometry, statistics and probability, and calculus, but with very different emphasis — Analysis is proof and calculus heavy, Applications is modelling and statistics heavy.

All students complete an internally assessed mathematical exploration, a written investigation of around 12 to 20 pages worth 20% of the grade. Choosing a workable topic early makes a substantial difference to the final result.

Key topics covered

• Number & Algebra — Sequences, series, exponents, logarithms, binomial theorem and proof.
• Functions — Function types, transformations, composite and inverse functions and models.
• Geometry & Trigonometry — Trigonometric functions, identities, equations, vectors and 3D geometry.
• Statistics & Probability — Distributions, correlation, regression, hypothesis testing and probability.
• Calculus — Limits, differentiation, integration, kinematics and differential equations.
• Higher Level Extension — Complex numbers, proof by induction, and advanced calculus techniques.
• Mathematical Exploration — The internally assessed investigation worth 20% of the final grade.