INTERNATIONAL BACCALUAREATE

MATHEMATICAL STUDIES

WHAT IS MATHEMATICAL STUDIES?

This subject offers all students an accessible, interesting, useful and practical introduction to advanced-level Mathematics for those who need to develop their skills in this area but who do not anticipate a need for mathematics in their future studies.

WHY SHOULD I STUDY Mathematics?

All IB students must study Mathematics as part of their course. At PPC we will offer Higher Level Mathematics and, at Standard Level, either Mathematics or Mathematical Studies.

USEFUL SKILLS & INTERESTS

Students who opt for Mathematical Studies will need an appreciation of the practical uses of the subject. They will need to build on the topics studied at GCSE. They will need good numerate skills, some facility with technology (including graphical calculators) and the maturity to cope with a coursework element.

COURSE STRUCTURE & CONTENT

The main topics covered are:

• Number and algebra, including sequences and series
• Sets, logic and probability
• Functions and graphs
• Geometry and trigonometry, including areas and volumes of solid shapes
• Statistics including regression and χ²-tests
• Differentiation including maxima, minima and tangents
• Financial mathematics including compound interest

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

There is no external examination at the end of the first year of study. Students will take two 1¹/₂-hour exams at the end of the second year. However there will be regular in-course assessments together with more comprehensive internal trial exams both at the end of the first year and at the beginning of the second term of their second year. Work on a Mathematical Project will take place during June and July of the students’ first year (approximately 20 hours) which will form part of the assessment and final grading.

COURSE COMMITMENT

Students attend lessons for 2.5 hours per week for the two years of the course. In addition there will be two workshops available each week and opportunities for one-to-one time with the teacher. Students should expect to spend a similar amount of time in private study. The GCSE requirements are the same as for AS.

COURSE COSTS

Students will use graphical display calculators throughout the course. A Casio 9850 is recommended – approximately £50

PROGRESSION ROUTES

General Higher Education Courses.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Throughout the course, the international nature of mathematics is explored by the use of examples originating from different countries and cultures. Aspects of the mathematics covered will be relevant to elements of understanding in the Theory of Knowledge component. In addition, students will have the option of basing their Extended Project on the subject.

For further information on this course please contact Barbara Tailby or Andrew Watts on (01287) 280800.