Group 5: Mathematics
You can choose from three different mathematics courses as part of the IB Diploma at St. Helen’s:
Mathematics Higher Level caters for students with an excellent background in mathematics who are competent in a range of analytical and technical skills. Students should have a GCSE pass at grade A* and have gained this grade with some ease. The majority of students will be expecting to include mathematics as a major component of their university studies, either as a subject in its own right or within courses such as physics, engineering and technology. They are likely to have a strong interest in mathematics and enjoy meeting its challenges and engaging with its problems.
The nature of this course is such that it focuses on developing important mathematical concepts in a comprehensible, coherent and rigorous way. This is achieved by means of a carefully balanced approach: you are encouraged to apply your mathematical knowledge to solving problems set in a variety of meaningful contexts whilst, at the same time, being introduced to the important concepts of justification and proof.
The internally assessed component, the portfolio, offers a framework for developing independence in your mathematical learning through engaging in mathematical investigation and modelling. The portfolio also allows you to work without the time constraints of a written examination and to develop skills in communicating mathematical ideas.
This course is demanding, requiring students to study a broad range of mathematical topics through a number of different approaches and to varying degrees of depth. Students wishing to study mathematics in a less rigorous environment should therefore opt for one of the other mathematics courses.
Mathematics Standard Level caters for students who already possess knowledge of basic mathematical concepts and who are equipped with the skills needed to apply simple mathematical techniques correctly. The intention is to introduce and extend knowledge of these concepts in a comprehensible and coherent way, rather than insisting on the mathematical rigour found in the Mathematics Higher Level course.
You will be encouraged to apply the mathematical knowledge you have acquired to solve realistic problems set in an appropriate context. This course is suitable for students needing a sound mathematical background as they prepare for future studies in subjects such as chemistry, economics, psychology and business administration.
The internally assessed component, the portfolio, offers a framework for developing independence in your mathematical learning by engaging in mathematical investigation and modelling. The portfolio allows you to work without the time constraints of a written examination and to develop the skills you need for communicating mathematical ideas.
Students should have obtained at least an A grade in the GCSE examination or equivalent to embark on this course. It is a demanding course since it contains a broad range of mathematical topics.
IB Mathematical Studies Standard Level concentrates on mathematics that can be applied across the curriculum, to common real-world occurrences and to topics that relate to home, work and leisure situations. You must produce a project; a piece of written work based on personal research, guided and supervised by the teacher. The project provides an opportunity for you to carry out a mathematical investigation in the context of another course being studied, a hobby or interest of your choice using skills learned before and during the course.
This course is suitable for students whose main interests lie outside the field of mathematics. This course is likely to constitute their final experience of being taught formal mathematics. Students who may need mathematics for the achievement of further qualifications are advised to consider one of the other mathematics courses.
