Mathematics - IB Diploma - Course Overview

Utahloy International School provides THREE programmes in mathematics to cater for a range of student abilities and interest. Programmes are designed to meet the needs of a particular group of students and therefore great care must be exercised in selecting one that is most appropriate for an individual student. In making the selection, individual students should take account of the following considerations:

• Their own abilities in mathematics and the type of mathematics in which they can be successful.
• What course of the three on offer can produce the biggest reward for effort expended by the individual.
• Their own interest in mathematics with respect to the areas that hold an appeal.
• What level of mathematics is required for courses in tertiary education.
• Their own choices of subjects within the framework of the IB Diploma.

The three programmes are:

Mathematical Studies – Standard Level

Students taking this course are expected to have a knowledge of basic concepts in the middle school course and be able to apply mathematical techniques correctly. In general students electing to study this course should not require mathematics in their future university studies, although it can be used for entry to some business courses.

Students are required to study the following topics:

1. Number and algebra
2. Functions and equations
3. Exponential and trigonometric functions
4. Logic
5. Financial mathematics
6. Statistics and probability
7. Calculus

Mathematics Standard Level

Students taking this course are expected to have a sound knowledge of the concepts covered in the middle school course, and possess the skills to apply mathematical techniques correctly. This course is a preparation for university subjects such as most sciences, economics, psychology, and some business administration courses.

Students are required to study the following topics:

1. Algebra
2. Functions and equations
3. Circular functions and trigonometry
4. Matrices
5. Vectors
6. Statistics and probability
7. Calculus

Mathematics Higher Level

Students taking this course should have a very high level of mathematical competence together with a good background in mathematics. This course is designed to prepare students for university studies in mathematics, physics, engineering and medicine.

Students are required to study the topics listed below:

1. Algebra
2. Functions and equations
3. Circular functions and trigonometry
4. Matrices
5. Vector
6. Statistics and probability
7. Calculus

Also, students are required to study one of the following topics listed below:

8. Statistics and probability
9. Sets, relations and groups
10. Series and differential equations
11. Discrete mathematics

Assessment

More detailed information regarding assessment methods can be obtained by contacting the school.

Calculators

All three courses require access to a graphing calculator. All students taking these courses will be expected to have a graphing calculator. A code of practice describing the use of calculators in the IB Diploma programme, including a list of other acceptable models, is available from the Head of the Mathematics Department.