Mathematics

"There are 3 kinds of mathematicians, those who can count and those who can’t."

- Homer Simpson

IB Mathematics is a compulsory subject in group 5 of the IB hexagon.

However, there are several different Mathematics courses to suit the ability and requirements of all students. At Chatsworth we offer the 3 main courses:

Mathematics Higher Level (HL)
Mathematics Standard Level (SL)
Mathematical Studies (Studies).

Mathematical Studies is recognized as a Standard Level course for the purpose of the IB syllabus. All courses require the use of Graphics Display Calculators (GDC) which the student must purchase. Students should decide as early as possible which course is best suited to their ability and choose accordingly. Below is a summary of the key requirements for each course.

Mathematics Higher Level (HL)

Suitable For	Students with a very high level of mathematical ability and who have consistently achieved top grades in the subject during their pre-diploma years (i.e. IGCSE A*). Students studying this course would be likely to study Mathematics or Mathematics related subjects at University.
Careers	All professions involving a high level of mathematical skill, e.g. Engineering, Physicists, Chemists, Actuary etc.
Topics Covered	Calculus (Differentiation, Integration and applications), Complex Numbers, Vectors, Algebra, Matrices, Statistics and Probability, Trigonometry, Mathematical Induction, Functions and Graphing Techniques. In addition there is an extra option course and portfolio work.
Examination	The final grade is calculated from the following: External examination Paper 1 (non-GDC) 30% External examination Paper 2 (GDC) 30% External examination Paper3 (option) 20% Portfolio 20%

Mathematics Standard Level (SL)

Suitable For	Students with a good level of mathematical ability and who have consistently achieved high grades in the subject during their pre-diploma years (i.e. IGCSE A/B). This course is particularly useful for students studying University subjects that require a good mathematical background e.g. Engineering, Business, Biology, Economics, etc.
Careers	All professions involving a good level of mathematical skill. E.g. Engineering, Business ,etc.
Topics Covered	Calculus (Differentiation and Integration), Vectors, Algebra, Matrices, Statistics and Probability, Trigonometry and Functions. In addition 2 portfolio tasks have to be completed.
Examination	The final grade is calculated from the following: External examination Paper 1 (non-GDC) 40% External examination Paper 2 (GDC) 40% Portfolio 20%

Mathematical Studies (Studies)

Suitable For	Students who find advanced mathematical techniques to be quite challenging and have scored average grades in their pre-diploma years (i.e. IGCSE B/C). It is also useful for more capable students who do not wish to study Mathematics at higher levels due to other career plans.
Careers	Students following the Studies course are unlikely to study mathematics related subjects at university or use any advanced mathematics in their future career. However, many of the skills learned in this course can be applied to whatever career the student follows.
Topics Covered	Number, Algebra, Logic and Probability, Functions, Geometry, Trigonometry, Statistics, Introductory Calculus and Financial Mathematics. In addition, students attempt an extended portfolio task of their choosing.
Examination	The final grade is calculated from the following: External examination Paper 1 (GDC) 40% External examination Paper 2 (GDC) 40% Portfolio 20%

Textbooks and Resources

Mathematics Higher Level for IB Diploma Roberts/Mackenzie
Mathematics Standard Level for IB Diploma Smedley/Wiseman
Mathematical Studies Course Companion Bedding/Coad etc.

Chatsworth International School Singapore IB Diploma - Group 5 Mathematics