What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?
SL Mathematics presents a challenge to most mathematicians and students who are not aiming for an B or higher in their GCSE Mathematics will find this course demanding. You should discuss your course selection with your Mathematics teacher and the advice given to you will be based upon all internal and external assessments undertaken during your current Mathematics course.
What will I learn on this course?
Core Syllabus Content
All topics in the core are compulsory. Students must study all sub-topics in each of the topics in the syllabus as listed as follows: Algebra, Functions and Equations, Circular Functions and Trigonometry, Matrices, Vectors, Statistics & Probability and Calculus.
Portfolio
This internally assessed component offers students opportunities to take a considered approach to exploring different ways of approaching a problem without the time constraints of a written examination and to develop skills in communicating mathematical ideas. There are two pieces of work, based on different areas of the syllabus, representing the following two types of tasks: mathematical investigation and mathematical modelling.
What kind of student is this course suitable for?
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.
How will my work be assessed?
Externally assessed written papers (80%):
- Paper 1 (No calculator allowed), 1:30 hrs, 40%
- Paper 2 (Graphic calculator required), 1:30 hrs, 40%
Internally assessed portfolio (20%):
- Type I Mathematical investigation, 10%
- Type II Mathematical modelling, 10%
What skills can I develop by taking this course?
Having followed any one of the mathematics courses in group 5, students are expected to know and use mathematical concepts and principles. In particular, students should become:
Inquirers
- Their natural curiosity is nurtured
- They acquire the skills necessary to conduct constructive inquiry and research into Mathematics, and become independent active learners
- They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives
Knowledgeable
- They recognize and demonstrate an understanding of the practical applications of mathematics
- They use appropriate technological devices as mathematical tools
- They build a repertoire of mathematical strategies and techniques
Critical thinkers
- They interpret and solve a given problem using appropriate mathematical techniques
- They demonstrate an understanding of both the significance and the reasonableness of results
- They recognize patterns and structures in a variety of situations, and make generalizations
Communicators
- they organize and present information and data in tabular, graphical and/or diagrammatic forms
- they know and use appropriate notation and terminology
- they formulate a mathematical argument and communicate it clearly
What could I go on to do at the end of this course?
Having followed this course you could go on to study: Mathematics, Technology, Teaching Medicine, Architecture Accountancy, Chemistry Psychology, Economics, Computing