This course caters for students who already possess knowledge of basic mathematical concepts, and who are equipped with the skills needed to apply simple mathematical techniques correctly. The majority of these students will expect to need a sound mathematical background as they prepare for future studies in subjects such as chemistry, economics, psychology and business administration. Students should be expected to understand mathematics conceptually as well as in application. A component of Math SL is the need for the student to make connections between several topics of mathematics in order to problem solve.
The course focuses on introducing important mathematical concepts through the development of mathematical techniques. The intention is to introduce students to these concepts in a comprehensible and coherent way. Students should, wherever possible, apply the mathematical knowledge they have acquired to solve realistic problems set in an appropriate context. Students are expected to be fluent in mathematics with and without a graphics display calculator. Mathematics is in a sense an international language, and, apart from slightly differing notation, mathematicians from around the world can communicate within their field. Many of the foundations of modern mathematics were laid many centuries ago by Arabic, Greek, Indian and Chinese civilizations, among others and the language of mathematics continues to develop with technology. To demonstrate the universality of mathematics in a historical context, Math SL students will learn about mathematicians and the historical context in which they worked. The internally assessed component, the exploration, offers students the opportunity for developing independence in their mathematical learning. Students are encouraged to take a considered approach to various mathematical activities and to explore different mathematical ideas. The exploration also allows students to work without the time constraints of a written examination and to develop the skills they need for communicating mathematical ideas. It is essential for students to communicate their appreciation for the beauty of mathematics and its place in the universe as well as a connection to a persona interest of theirs. Students must also sit for two externally graded examinations; with and without a GDC. |