There are two different DP subjects in mathematics, this course: Mathematics: Applications and interpretations focuses on the pivotal position that mathematics and technology hold in many industries and areas of study across the world. This course focuses students on mathematics in context, engaging students in working through real-life scenarios to develop and communicate mathematical solutions in order to draw conclusions. This approach gives students a strong appreciation for the relationship between the theoretical and practical, enables them to understand mathematical concepts and modelling and covers higher order topics such as statistics and calculus. It is a challenging and fascinating course for young mathematicians.
The external assessments on the course involve the use of technology. The blend of predominantly external but some internal assessments support students to become independent in their mathematical learning, whilst developing a curiosity and enjoyment of mathematics, and its intricacies and power. Students will hone their logical and creative thinking and refine their understanding of core skills such as reasoning, deduction, abstraction and generalization. More broadly, the course will build their capacity to be persistent in problem solving, use technology well and communicate mathematically with concision and confidence. Interestingly, they will also examine the universality of mathematics and its multicultural, international and historical perspectives. Alongside this, students will explore the contribution of mathematics to other disciplines including those covered as “areas of knowledge” in the Theory of Knowledge course, which exemplifies the cross-curricular and outward facing approach of an IB mathematics education.
