IB Math Courses
Group 5 courses aim to help students:
- Develop mathematical knowledge, concepts, and principles
- Strengthen logical, critical, and creative thinking, along with problem-solving skills
- Enhance their ability to think abstractly and generalize ideas
While the core elements of the IB Math courses are similar, the approaches differ between Analysis and Approaches (AA) and Applications and Interpretations (AI). Both courses equip students with the mathematical skills needed for various further educational pathways, tailored to the distinct approaches to learning in each course.
Overview
Focus:
- Analysis and Approaches (AA): Develop mathematical reasoning, problem-solving skills, and abstract thinking through the study of real-world applications and theoretical concepts.
- Applications and Interpretations (AI): Focus on applying mathematics to real-world problems, leveraging technology for problem-solving and creating mathematical models.
Key Philosophical Questions:
- How can mathematical reasoning be used to understand and solve real-world problems?
- In what ways does the structure of mathematics reflect patterns in the natural and social sciences?
Course Structure:
- SL (Standard Level): 1-year courses, focusing on essential mathematical concepts with some application to real-world scenarios.
- HL (Higher Level): 2-year courses that extend the depth and breadth of mathematical knowledge, with more complex topics and additional content for in-depth study.
IB Assessments
IB Analysis and Approaches (AA) SL
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Internal Assessment (SL): A mathematical exploration where students choose a topic, conduct research, and apply mathematical concepts to solve a problem, demonstrating their understanding and creativity.
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End-of-Course Exam (SL): A written exam consisting of both short-answer and extended-response questions testing mathematical problem-solving, theoretical understanding, and real-world applications.
IB Analysis and Approaches (AA) HL
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Internal Assessment (HL): A mathematical exploration similar to SL, but requiring more advanced mathematical concepts, with a focus on in-depth analysis and higher-level problem-solving.
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End-of-Course Exam (HL): A more extensive written exam with complex mathematical problems, including both theory and application, requiring deep understanding and advanced reasoning skills.
IB Applications and Interpretations (AI) SL
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Internal Assessment (SL): A project focused on solving a real-world problem using mathematics, where students apply mathematical techniques to practical situations, showcasing their understanding and interpretation.
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End-of-Course Exam (SL): A written exam assessing the application of mathematical techniques, focusing on real-world problems, data interpretation, and mathematical models.
Couse Information
Course Options:
- IB Analysis and Approaches (AA) SL - 1 year/1 period - (Code: 507)
- IB Analysis and Approaches (AA) HL - 2 years/1 period - Year 1 (Code: 509) / Year 2 (Code: 510)
Explore IB Analysis and Approaches
In these courses, students focus on developing mathematical arguments and problem-solving skills while exploring both real-world and abstract applications, using technology when appropriate.
- IB Applications and Interpretations (AI) SL - 1 year/1 period - (Code: 511)
In this course, you will spend time describing the real world, solving practical problems using mathematics, and harnessing the power of technology alongside exploring mathematical models.
For the most up-to-date course information and descriptions, see the Academic Programs and Pathways resource
All courses study five general topics:
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Numbers and Algebra
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Functions
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Geometry and Trigonometry
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Statistics and Probability
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Calculus
Quick Links
Example Careers
Example careers for students interested in Group V courses and topics:
Immediate Opportunities (High School/2-Year College):
- Data Entry Specialist – Input and organize data, requiring basic math and computer skills.
- Junior Actuarial Assistant – Support actuaries with data collection and financial models; certification or training recommended.
- Quality Control Analyst – Monitor product quality using basic statistics; associate degree preferred.
- Operations Support Specialist – Analyze supply chain data to optimize processes; 2-year business/logistics degree helpful.
- Cryptography Assistant – Assist in encryption systems; 2-year computer science training beneficial.
After 2-Year College or Trade School:
- Junior Data Analyst – Use statistical tools to analyze trends; associate degree required.
- Actuarial Technician – Support actuaries with risk models; specialized 2-year courses needed.
- Financial Analyst – Evaluate performance and investments; finance or economics degree required.
- Software Developer (Junior) – Code and design software; associate degree in computer science.
- Supply Chain Analyst – Optimize logistics; 2-year supply chain management degree recommended.
After 4-Year College or University:
- Data Analyst – Interpret large data sets for business insights.
- Actuary – Assess and manage financial risk.
- Software Engineer – Design and maintain software applications.
- Operations Research Analyst – Solve complex efficiency challenges.
- Cryptographer – Develop secure communication and encryption methods.
Military Careers:
- Intelligence Analyst – Analyze data for security; specialized military training provided.
- Cybersecurity Specialist – Secure systems using encryption; military training available.
- Operations Research Analyst – Optimize logistics; military provides training.
- Engineering Technician – Support system design; technical training included.
Entrepreneurship/Freelance:
- Freelance Data Analyst – Offer data insights to businesses.
- Actuarial Consulting – Help manage financial risk independently.
- Cryptography Consultant – Create custom encryption solutions.
- Tech Start-Up – Develop innovative software applications.
- Financial Advisor – Provide budgeting and investment planning.