Subject BriefIndividual students have different needs, aspirations, interests and abilities. For this reason there are two different DP subjects in mathematics,
Mathematics: analysis and approaches and Mathematics: applications and interpretation. Each course is designed to meet the needs of a particular group of students. Both courses are offered at SL and HL.
The IB DP Mathematics: applications and interpretation course recognizes the increasing role that mathematics and technology play in a diverse range of fields in a data-rich world. As such, it emphasizes the meaning of mathematics in context by focusing on topics that are often used as
applications or in mathematical modelling. To give this understanding a firm base, this course includes topics that are traditionally part of a
pre-university mathematics course such as calculus and statistics. Students are encouraged to solve real-world problems, construct and communicate this mathematically and interpret the conclusions or generalizations.
Students should expect to develop strong technology skills, and will be intellectually equipped to appreciate the links between the theoretical and
the practical concepts in mathematics. All external assessments involve the use of technology. Students are also encouraged to develop the skills needed to continue their mathematical growth in other learning environments.
The internally assessed exploration allows students to develop independence in mathematical learning. Throughout the course students
are encouraged to take a considered approach to various mathematical activities and to explore different mathematical ideas.
The aims of all DP mathematics courses are to enable students to:
z develop a curiosity and enjoyment of mathematics, and appreciate its
elegance and power
z develop an understanding of the concepts, principles and nature of
mathematics
z communicate mathematics clearly, concisely and confidently in a
variety of contexts
z develop logical and creative thinking, and patience and persistence in
problem solving to instil confidence in using mathematics
z employ and refine their powers of abstraction and generalization
z take action to apply and transfer skills to alternative situations, to other
areas of knowledge and to future developments in their local and
global communities
z appreciate how developments in technology and mathematics influ-
ence each other
z appreciate the moral, social and ethical questions arising from the work
of mathematicians and the applications of mathematics
z appreciate the universality of mathematics and its multicultural, inter-
national and historical perspectives
z appreciate the contribution of mathematics to other disciplines, and as
a particular “area of knowledge” in the TOK course
z develop the ability to reflect critically upon their own work and the
work of others
z independently and collaboratively extend their understanding of
mathematics.
MATHEMATICS