IB | Mathematics (SL)(HL) – Leighton Park

Block 5

Head of Department: Leni Samuel

lenisamuel@leightonpark.com

Course Overview

IB Mathematics Applications and Interpretations studied at Standard or Higher Level.

The IB specification focuses on how mathematics enters our lives daily in a number of ways: for example, we purchase items, consult a timetable or read a newspaper. Mathematics will also extend into our chosen profession: artists need to learn about perspective, economists need to recognise trends in financial dealings and engineers need to take into account stress patterns in physical materials. Scientists view mathematics as a language that is central to our understanding of events that occur in the natural world. Some people enjoy the challenges offered by the logical methods of mathematics and the adventure in reason that mathematical proof has to offer whilst others appreciate mathematics as an aesthetic experience.

Individual students have different needs, interests and abilities. Leighton Park School offers the Applications and Interpretations course at Standard and Higher level (for students who do not anticipate needing mathematics in their future studies and for students who want a strong mathematical background). The course is for students who are interested in developing their mathematics for describing our world and solving practical problems. They will also be interested in harnessing the power of technology alongside exploring mathematical models. Students studying the course will be those who enjoy mathematics best when seen in a practical context. There are many elements common to both subjects although the approaches may be different. Both HL and SL will prepare students with the mathematics needed for a range of further educational courses.

The aims of all DP mathematics courses are to enable students to: 

• Develop a curiosity and enjoyment of mathematics and appreciate its elegance and power.
• Develop an understanding of the concepts, principles and nature of mathematics.
• Communicate mathematics clearly, concisely and confidentially in a variety0 of contexts.
• Develop logical and creative thinking, and patience ad persistence in problem solving to instil confidence in using mathematics.
• Employ and refine their powers of abstraction and generalisation.
• 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.
• Appreciate how developments in technologies and mathematics influence each other.
• Appreciate the moral, social and ethical questions arising from the work of mathematicians and the applications of mathematics.
• Appreciate the universality of mathematics and its multicultural, international and historical perspectives.
• Appreciate the contribution of mathematics to other disciplines, and as a particular “area of knowledge” in the TOK course.
• Develop the ability to reflect critically upon their own work and the work of others.
• Independently and collaboratively extend their understanding of mathematics.

Mathematics Standard Level (SL)

SL is designed for those students who are confident about applying GCSE techniques correctly (a Level 7 or above GCSE is advised). Any student who is good at and enjoys mathematics will benefit from the SL course. It covers the development of mathematical techniques from an applications rather than theoretical perspective.

Mathematics Higher Level (HL)

HL is more demanding and aimed at those who have exhibited a high level of competence in Mathematics (a Level 8 or 9 GCSE is advised). It is challenging and is therefore best suited to those who enjoy the subject and the challenge of difficult problems.

The syllabus content includes: Using a Graphic Display Calculator; Number and Algebra; Functions; Geometry and trigonometry; Statistics and Probability and Calculus. The ‘toolkit’ and Mathematical exploration is a piece of written work that involves investigating and area of mathematics; it is investigative and develops problem-solving and modelling skills.

Assessment

Assessment is by written examinations (HL/5 hours and SL/3 hours, technology required) and an exploration task which is a piece of written work that involves investigating an area of mathematics on a topic of the student’s own choice.

Skills Gained on this Course

Ability to select, use and apply mathematical facts, strategies and techniques in a variety of contexts and problem-solving situations; formulation of mathematical arguments and ability to communicate them clearly; ability to use standard mathematical models to represent situations in the real world and interpret the results; how to effectively use graphic calculator technology as a mathematical tool.

Beyond IB

Mathematics develops students’ analytical skills and is appropriate to a wide range of careers and science-based courses at Higher Education level and is held in universally high regard. Particularly relevant careers include Accountancy and Banking, Computing, Engineering, Architecture and Business.

To find out more about this course please contact Head of Department: Leni Samuel

To apply for our Sixth Form please see our Admissions page.