By Mateusz Konat and Wiktoria Wojnarowicz
In 2019, the International Baccalaureate (IB) introduced Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (AA), one of two new mathematics courses for students aged 16-19. Available at both standard and higher levels, Math AA offers a rigorous approach to mathematical study, emphasizing algebraic methods and fostering strong mathematical thinking skills. This article serves as an introduction to Math AA, providing an overview of its structure and assessment, and suggesting useful tips..
Course structure
Math AA, like all IB math courses, is structured around five key topics:
– Number and Algebra
– Functions
– Geometry and Trigonometry
– Statistics and Probability
– Calculus
While all IB math courses cover these topics, the depth of coverage varies between standard and higher levels, which is summarized in the following table:
Source: IBO
Assessment
Assessment in Math AA comprises both internal and external components. External assessment includes two papers for both standard and higher levels:
– Paper 1: No calculator allowed
– Paper 2: Calculator required
Both papers consist of two parts: Part A with short-response questions and Part B with extended-response questions. Higher Level (HL) Math AA also includes Paper 3, which focuses on extended-response questions requiring strong problem-solving skills.
The internal assessment (IA) is a 20-page mathematical exploration. This project aims to engage students in applying mathematics to a topic of personal interest. While it can be abstract, it should align with the chosen course level and demonstrate academic rigor.
Differences between SL and HL
Paper 1
| Criteria | Higher Level | Standard Level |
| Duration | 120 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Total Marks | 110 marks | 80 marks |
| Weightage | 30% | 40% |
Paper 2
| Criteria | Higher Level | Standard Level |
| Duration | 120 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Total Marks | 110 marks | 80 marks |
| Weightage | 30% | 40% |
Paper 3
| Criteria | Higher Level | Standard Level |
| Duration | 60 minutes | – |
| Total Marks | 55 marks | – |
| Weightage | 20% | – |
Differences in Internal Assessments
At both standard and higher level, the internal assessment is worth 20 percent of the student’s grade. The assessment’s structure requirements are the same at both levels; however, it is expected that a higher level student will choose a rather more advanced topic due to their more extensive knowledge, in comparison to a standard level student.
Increase in Teaching Hours
For higher level students, the increase in teaching hours for each component will be as follows:
-Number and Algebra: 20 hours
-Functions: 11 hours
-Geometry and Trigonometry: 26 hours
-Statistics and Probability: 5 hours
-Calculus: 27 hours
As Math AA is a course centered around core mathematics, the increase in fundamental topics such as calculus will consequently be much more significant, in comparison to statistics or probability. However, if you prefer those, you should consider Math AI (Analysis and Interpretation), as it’s a rather more practical course focusing on topics such as finance, statistics, or modeling.
Useful Tips and Resources
Consistency is the key to performing well in subjects such as mathematics. When learning a new topic, it is crucial to thoroughly analyze the material along with solving as many practice questions as possible, as to learn how to apply the new knowledge to various schemas. Revision Village offers many practice questions, but if you need some extra help in navigating the topic, Khan Academy is an excellent resource with practice questions and tutorials explaining the topics. If you want to learn more about various study and revision techniques, click here.
Another often overlooked aspect when studying, is remembering that adequate rest and solid nutrition are crucial to achieving your highest potential. Your body needs energy to efficiently acquire new knowledge, so always make sure to take care of yourself first, before studying or doing anything else.
Further Reading
While this article provides a foundational understanding of Math AA, delving into its intricacies requires more detailed resources. For a thorough comprehension of Math AA, it is recommended to refer to the Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches Guide. This official International Baccalaureate (IB) document covers all aspects of Math AA, including precise assessment criteria for papers and the IA.
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