What Makes IB Mathematics Different?
The International Baccalaureate Mathematics courses are designed to develop students’ mathematical understanding and their ability to apply it in different contexts. Through data analysis, mathematical modelling and problem-solving, students develop mathematical skills that enhance logical thinking, reasoning abilities and the capacity to make informed decisions.
At both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL), success depends not only on learning procedures, but also on understanding concepts and knowing when and how to apply each mathematical tool. That is why, in my lessons, we approach the content from a practical perspective, working through exam-style questions and reinforcing the topics that each student finds most challenging.
The subject is assessed through the following components:
- Paper 1: Short-answer questions. It accounts for 40% of the final grade.
- Paper 2: Long-answer questions. It accounts for 40% of the final grade.
- Internal Assessment (IA): A 12–20-page mathematical exploration in which students apply an area of mathematics to investigate and solve a problem. It accounts for 20% of the final grade.
- At HL, there is also a Paper 3, which involves solving two extended problems and accounts for 20% of the final grade. In this case, Paper 1 and Paper 2 each account for 30%.
* NOTE: It is important to remember that International Baccalaureate grades are awarded on a scale of up to 7 points.