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Diploma Programme

Mathematics SL guide
First examinations 2014

Diploma Programme

Mathematics SL guide
First examinations 2014

Diploma Programme
Mathematics SL guide

Published March 2012
Published on behalf of the International Baccalaureate Organization, a not-for-profit
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© International Baccalaureate Organization 2012
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5033

IB mission statement
The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to
create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.
To this end the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop challenging
programmes of international education and rigorous assessment.
These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who
understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.

IB learner profile
The aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity
and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world.
IB learners strive to be:
Inquirers

They develop their natural curiosity. They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry
and research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and this love
of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.

Knowledgeable

They explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing,
they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced
range of disciplines.

Thinkers

They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize
and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions.

Communicators

They understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more
than one language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and
willingly in collaboration with others.

Principled

They act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for
the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their
own actions and the consequences that accompany them.

Open-minded

They understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open
to the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are
accustomed to seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow
from the experience.

Caring

They show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others.
They have a personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the
lives of others and to the environment.

Risk-takers

They approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and
have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave
and articulate in defending their beliefs.

Balanced

They understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve
personal well-being for themselves and others.

Reflective

They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to
assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and
personal development.

Contents

Introduction1
Purpose of this document

The Diploma Programme

Nature of the subject

Aims8
Assessment objectives

Syllabus10
Syllabus outline

Approaches to the teaching and learning of mathematics SL

Prior learning topics

Syllabus content

Assessment37
Assessment in the Diploma Programme

Assessment outline

External assessment

Internal assessment

Appendices50
Glossary of command terms

Notation list

Mathematics SL guide

Introduction

Purpose of this document

This publication is intended to guide the planning, teaching and assessment of the subject in schools. Subject
teachers are the primary audience, although it is expected that teachers will use the guide to inform students
and parents about the subject.
This guide can be found on the subject page of the online curriculum centre (OCC) at http://occ.ibo.org, a
password-protected IB website designed to support IB teachers. It can also be purchased from the IB store at
http://store.ibo.org.

Additional resources
Additional publications such as teacher support materials, subject reports, internal assessment guidance
and grade descriptors can also be found on the OCC. Specimen and past examination papers as well as
markschemes can be purchased from the IB store.
Teachers are encouraged to check the OCC for additional resources created or used by other teachers. Teachers
can provide details of useful resources, for example: websites, books, videos, journals or teaching ideas.

First examinations 2014

Mathematics SL guide

Introduction

The Diploma Programme

The Diploma Programme is a rigorous pre-university course of study designed for students in the 16 to 19
age range. It is a broad-based two-year course that aims to encourage students to be knowledgeable and
inquiring, but also caring and compassionate. There is a strong emphasis on encouraging students to develop
intercultural understanding, open-mindedness, and the attitudes necessary for them to respect and evaluate a
range of points of view.

The Diploma Programme hexagon
The course is presented as six academic areas enclosing a central core (see figure 1). It encourages the concurrent
study of a broad range of academic areas. Students study: two modern languages (or a modern language and
a classical language); a humanities or social science subject; an experimental science; mathematics; one of
the creative arts. It is this comprehensive range of subjects that makes the Diploma Programme a demanding
course of study designed to prepare students effectively for university entrance. In each of the academic areas
students have flexibility in making their choices, which means they can choose subjects that particularly
interest them and that they may wish to study further at university.

Studies in language
and literature

Group 1
Group 2

Group 3

Individuals
and societies

essay
ed
nd
PR OFIL
ER

dge
ext
wle
e
o
n
E
L
A
RN
IB
E

theory
of
k
TH

Language
acquisition

Experimental
sciences

Group 4

cr
ea
ice
tivi
ty, action, serv

Group 5

Mathematics

Group 6
The arts

Figure 1
Diploma Programme model

Mathematics SL guide

The Diploma Programme

Choosing the right combination
Students are required to choose one subject from each of the six academic areas, although they can choose a
second subject from groups 1 to 5 instead of a group 6 subject. Normally, three subjects (and not more than
four) are taken at higher level (HL), and the others are taken at standard level (SL). The IB recommends 240
teaching hours for HL subjects and 150 hours for SL. Subjects at HL are studied in greater depth and breadth
than at SL.
At both levels, many skills are developed, especially those of critical thinking and analysis. At the end of
the course, students’ abilities are measured by means of external assessment. Many subjects contain some
element of coursework assessed by teachers. The courses are available for examinations in English, French and
Spanish, with the exception of groups 1 and 2 courses where examinations are in the language of study.

The core of the hexagon
All Diploma Programme students participate in the three course requirements that make up the core of the
hexagon. Reflection on all these activities is a principle that lies at the heart of the thinking behind the Diploma
Programme.
The theory of knowledge course encourages students to think about the nature of knowledge, to reflect on
the process of learning in all the subjects they study as part of their Diploma Programme course, and to make
connections across the academic areas. The extended essay, a substantial piece of writing of up to 4,000 words,
enables students to investigate a topic of special interest that they have chosen themselves. It also encourages
them to develop the skills of independent research that will be expected at university. Creativity, action, service
involves students in experiential learning through a range of artistic, sporting, physical and service activities.

The IB mission statement and the IB learner profile
The Diploma Programme aims to develop in students the knowledge, skills and attitudes they will need to
fulfill the aims of the IB, as expressed in the organization’s mission statement and the learner profile. Teaching
and learning in the Diploma Programme represent the reality in daily practice of the organization’s educational
philosophy.

Mathematics SL guide

Introduction

Nature of the subject

Introduction
The nature of mathematics can be summarized in a number of ways: for example, it can be seen as a welldefined body of knowledge, as an abstract system of ideas, or as a useful tool. For many people it is probably
a combination of these, but there is no doubt that mathematical knowledge provides an important key to
understanding the world in which we live. Mathematics can enter our lives in a number of ways: we buy
produce in the market, consult a timetable, read a newspaper, time a process or estimate a length. Mathematics,
for most of us, also extends into our chosen profession: visual artists need to learn about perspective; musicians
need to appreciate the mathematical relationships within and between different rhythms; economists need
to recognize trends in financial dealings; and engineers need to take account of stress patterns in physical
materials. Scientists view mathematics as a language that is central to our understanding of events that occur
in the natural world. Some people enjoy the challenges offered by the logical methods of mathematics and
the adventure in reason that mathematical proof has to offer. Others appreciate mathematics as an aesthetic
experience or even as a cornerstone of philosophy. This prevalence of mathematics in our lives, with all its
interdisciplinary connections, provides a clear and sufficient rationale for making the study of this subject
compulsory for students studying the full diploma.

Summary of courses available
Because individual students have different needs, interests and abilities, there are four different courses in
mathematics. These courses are designed for different types of students: those who wish to study mathematics
in depth, either as a subject in its own right or to pursue their interests in areas related to mathematics; those
who wish to gain a degree of understanding and competence to understand better their approach to other
subjects; and those who may not as yet be aware how mathematics may be relevant to their studies and in their
daily lives. Each course is designed to meet the needs of a particular group of students. Therefore, great care
should be taken to select the course that is most appropriate for an individual student.
In making this selection, individual students should be advised to take account of the following factors:
•

their own abilities in mathematics and the type of mathematics in which they can be successful

•

their own interest in mathematics and those particular areas of the subject that may hold the most interest
for them

•

their other choices of subjects within the framework of the Diploma Programme

•

their academic plans, in particular the subjects they wish to study in future

•

their choice of career.

Teachers are expected to assist with the selection process and to offer advice to students.

Mathematical studies SL
This course is available only at standard level, and is equivalent in status to mathematics SL, but addresses
different needs. It has an emphasis on applications of mathematics, and the largest section is on statistical
techniques. It is designed for students with varied mathematical backgrounds and abilities. It offers students

Mathematics SL guide

Nature of the subject

opportunities to learn important concepts and techniques and to gain an understanding of a wide variety
of mathematical topics. It prepares students to be able to solve problems in a variety of settings, to develop
more sophisticated mathematical reasoning and to enhance their critical thinking. The individual project is an
extended piece of work based on personal research involving the collection, analysis and evaluation of data.
Students taking this course are well prepared for a career in social sciences, humanities, languages or arts.
These students may need to utilize the statistics and logical reasoning that they have learned as part of the
mathematical studies SL course in their future studies.

Mathematics SL
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.

Mathematics HL
This course caters for students with a good background in mathematics who are competent in a range of
analytical and technical skills. The majority of these students will be expecting to include mathematics as
a major component of their university studies, either as a subject in its own right or within courses such as
physics, engineering and technology. Others may take this subject because they have a strong interest in
mathematics and enjoy meeting its challenges and engaging with its problems.

Further mathematics HL
This course is available only at higher level. It caters for students with a very strong background in mathematics
who have attained a high degree of competence in a range of analytical and technical skills, and who display
considerable interest in the subject. Most of these students will expect to study mathematics at university, either
as a subject in its own right or as a major component of a related subject. The course is designed specifically
to allow students to learn about a variety of branches of mathematics in depth and also to appreciate practical
applications. It is expected that students taking this course will also be taking mathematics HL.
Note: Mathematics HL is an ideal course for students expecting to include mathematics as a major component
of their university studies, either as a subject in its own right or within courses such as physics, engineering
or technology. It should not be regarded as necessary for such students to study further mathematics HL.
Rather, further mathematics HL is an optional course for students with a particular aptitude and interest in
mathematics, enabling them to study some wider and deeper aspects of mathematics, but is by no means a
necessary qualification to study for a degree in mathematics.

Mathematics SL—course details
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,
rather than insisting on the mathematical rigour required for mathematics HL. Students should, wherever
possible, apply the mathematical knowledge they have acquired to solve realistic problems set in an appropriate
context.
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.

Mathematics SL guide

Nature of the subject

This course does not have the depth found in the mathematics HL courses. Students wishing to study subjects
with a high degree of mathematical content should therefore opt for a mathematics HL course rather than a
mathematics SL course.

Prior learning
Mathematics is a linear subject, and it is expected that most students embarking on a Diploma Programme
(DP) mathematics course will have studied mathematics for at least 10 years. There will be a great variety
of topics studied, and differing approaches to teaching and learning. Thus students will have a wide variety
of skills and knowledge when they start the mathematics SL course. Most will have some background in
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, probability and statistics. Some will be familiar with an inquiry
approach, and may have had an opportunity to complete an extended piece of work in mathematics.
At the beginning of the syllabus section there is a list of topics that are considered to be prior learning for the
mathematics SL course. It is recognized that this may contain topics that are unfamiliar to some students, but it
is anticipated that there may be other topics in the syllabus itself that these students have already encountered.
Teachers should plan their teaching to incorporate topics mentioned that are unfamiliar to their students.

Links to the Middle Years Programme
The prior learning topics for the DP courses have been written in conjunction with the Middle Years
Programme (MYP) mathematics guide. The approaches to teaching and learning for DP mathematics build
on the approaches used in the MYP. These include investigations, exploration and a variety of different
assessment tools.
A continuum document called Mathematics: The MYP–DP continuum (November 2010) is available on the
DP mathematics home pages of the OCC. This extensive publication focuses on the alignment of mathematics
across the MYP and the DP. It was developed in response to feedback provided by IB World Schools, which
expressed the need to articulate the transition of mathematics from the MYP to the DP. The publication also
highlights the similarities and differences between MYP and DP mathematics, and is a valuable resource for
teachers.

Mathematics and theory of knowledge
The Theory of knowledge guide (March 2006) identifies four ways of knowing, and it could be claimed that
these all have some role in the acquisition of mathematical knowledge. While perhaps initially inspired by data
from sense perception, mathematics is dominated by reason, and some mathematicians argue that their subject
is a language, that it is, in some sense, universal. However, there is also no doubt that mathematicians perceive
beauty in mathematics, and that emotion can be a strong driver in the search for mathematical knowledge.
As an area of knowledge, mathematics seems to supply a certainty perhaps missing in other disciplines. This
may be related to the “purity” of the subject that makes it sometimes seem divorced from reality. However,
mathematics has also provided important knowledge about the world, and the use of mathematics in science
and technology has been one of the driving forces for scientific advances.
Despite all its undoubted power for understanding and change, mathematics is in the end a puzzling
phenomenon. A fundamental question for all knowers is whether mathematical knowledge really exists
independently of our thinking about it. Is it there “waiting to be discovered” or is it a human creation?

Mathematics SL guide

Nature of the subject

Students’ attention should be drawn to questions relating theory of knowledge (TOK) and mathematics, and
they should be encouraged to raise such questions themselves, in mathematics and TOK classes. This includes
questioning all the claims made above. Examples of issues relating to TOK are given in the “Links” column of
the syllabus. Teachers could also discuss questions such as those raised in the “Areas of knowledge” section of
the TOK guide.

Mathematics and the international dimension
Mathematics is in a sense an international language, and, apart from slightly differing notation, mathematicians
from around the world can communicate within their field. Mathematics transcends politics, religion and
nationality, yet throughout history great civilizations owe their success in part to their mathematicians being
able to create and maintain complex social and architectural structures.
Despite recent advances in the development of information and communication technologies, the global
exchange of mathematical information and ideas is not a new phenomenon and has been essential to the
progress of mathematics. Indeed, many of the foundations of modern mathematics were laid many centuries
ago by Arabic, Greek, Indian and Chinese civilizations, among others. Teachers could use timeline websites
to show the contributions of different civilizations to mathematics, but not just for their mathematical content.
Illustrating the characters and personalities of the mathematicians concerned and the historical context in
which they worked brings home the human and cultural dimension of mathematics.
The importance of science and technology in the everyday world is clear, but the vital role of mathematics
is not so well recognized. It is the language of science, and underpins most developments in science and
technology. A good example of this is the digital revolution, which is transforming the world, as it is all based
on the binary number system in mathematics.
Many international bodies now exist to promote mathematics. Students are encouraged to access the extensive
websites of international mathematical organizations to enhance their appreciation of the international
dimension and to engage in the global issues surrounding the subject.
Examples of global issues relating to international-mindedness (Int) are given in the “Links” column of the
syllabus.

Mathematics SL guide

Introduction

Aims

Group 5 aims
The aims of all mathematics courses in group 5 are to enable students to:
1.

enjoy mathematics, and develop an appreciation of the elegance and power of mathematics

develop an understanding of the principles and nature of mathematics

communicate clearly and confidently in a variety of contexts

develop logical, critical and creative thinking, and patience and persistence in problem-solving

employ and refine their powers of abstraction and generalization

apply and transfer skills to alternative situations, to other areas of knowledge and to future developments

appreciate how developments in technology and mathematics have influenced each other

appreciate the moral, social and ethical implications arising from the work of mathematicians and the
applications of mathematics

appreciate the international dimension in mathematics through an awareness of the universality of
mathematics and its multicultural and historical perspectives

10.

appreciate the contribution of mathematics to other disciplines, and as a particular “area of knowledge”
in the TOK course.

Mathematics SL guide

Introduction

Assessment objectives

Problem-solving is central to learning mathematics and involves the acquisition of mathematical skills and
concepts in a wide range of situations, including non-routine, open-ended and real-world problems. Having
followed a DP mathematics SL course, students will be expected to demonstrate the following.
1.

Knowledge and understanding: recall, select and use their knowledge of mathematical facts, concepts
and techniques in a variety of familiar and unfamiliar contexts.

Problem-solving: recall, select and use their knowledge of mathematical skills, results and models in
both real and abstract contexts to solve problems.

Communication and interpretation: transform common realistic contexts into mathematics; comment
on the context; sketch or draw mathematical diagrams, graphs or constructions both on paper and using
technology; record methods, solutions and conclusions using standardized notation.

Technology: use technology, accurately, appropriately and efficiently both to explore new ideas and to
solve problems.

Reasoning: construct mathematical arguments through use of precise statements, logical deduction and
inference, and by the manipulation of mathematical expressions.

Inquiry approaches: investigate unfamiliar situations, both abstract and real-world, involving organizing
and analysing information, making conjectures, drawing conclusions and testing their validity.

Mathematics SL guide

Syllabus

Syllabus outline

Teaching hours
Syllabus component

All topics are compulsory. Students must study all the sub-topics in each of the topics
in the syllabus as listed in this guide. Students are also required to be familiar with the
topics listed as prior learning.
Topic 1

Algebra
Topic 2

Functions and equations
Topic 3

Circular functions and trigonometry
Topic 4

Vectors
Topic 5

Statistics and probability
Topic 6

Calculus
Mathematical exploration

Internal assessment in mathematics SL is an individual exploration. This is a piece of
written work that involves investigating an area of mathematics.
Total teaching hours

150

Mathematics SL guide

Syllabus

Approaches to the teaching and learning
of mathematics SL

Throughout the DP mathematics SL course, students should be encouraged to develop their understanding
of the methodology and practice of the discipline of mathematics. The processes of mathematical inquiry,
mathematical modelling and applications and the use of technology should be introduced appropriately.
These processes should be used throughout the course, and not treated in isolation.

Mathematical inquiry
The IB learner profile encourages learning by experimentation, questioning and discovery. In the IB
classroom, students should generally learn mathematics by being active participants in learning activities
rather than recipients of instruction. Teachers should therefore provide students with opportunities to learn
through mathematical inquiry. This approach is illustrated in figure 2.

Explore the context

Make a conjecture

Test the conjecture
Reject
Accept

Justify

Extend

Figure 2

Mathematical modelling and applications
Students should be able to use mathematics to solve problems in the real world. Engaging students in the
mathematical modelling process provides such opportunities. Students should develop, apply and critically
analyse models. This approach is illustrated in figure 3.

Mathematics SL guide

Approaches to the teaching and learning of mathematics SL

Pose a real-world problem

Develop a model

Test the model
Reject
Accept

Reflect on and apply the model

Extend

Figure 3

Technology
Technology is a powerful tool in the teaching and learning of mathematics. Technology can be used to enhance
visualization and support student understanding of mathematical concepts. It can assist in the collection,
recording, organization and analysis of data. Technology can increase the scope of the problem situations that
are accessible to students. The use of technology increases the feasibility of students working with interesting
problem contexts where students reflect, reason, solve problems and make decisions.
As teachers tie together the unifying themes of mathematical inquiry, mathematical modelling and
applications and the use of technology, they should begin by providing substantial guidance, and then
gradually encourage students to become more independent as inquirers and thinkers. IB students should learn
to become strong communicators through the language of mathematics. Teachers should create a safe learning
environment in which students are comfortable as risk-takers.
Teachers are encouraged to relate the mathematics being studied to other subjects and to the real world,
especially topics that have particular relevance or are of interest to their students. Everyday problems and
questions should be drawn into the lessons to motivate students and keep the material relevant; suggestions
are provided in the “Links” column of the syllabus. The mathematical exploration offers an opportunity
to investigate the usefulness, relevance and occurrence of mathematics in the real world and will add an
extra dimension to the course. The emphasis is on communication by means of mathematical forms (for
example, formulae, diagrams, graphs and so on) with accompanying commentary. Modelling, investigation,
reflection, personal engagement and mathematical communication should therefore feature prominently in the
DP mathematics classroom.

Mathematics SL guide

Approaches to the teaching and learning of mathematics SL

For further information on “Approaches to teaching a DP course”, please refer to the publication The Diploma
Programme: From principles into practice (April 2009). To support teachers, a variety of resources can be
found on the OCC and details of workshops for professional development are available on the public website.

Format of the syllabus
•

Content: this column lists, under each topic, the sub-topics to be covered.

•

Further guidance: this column contains more detailed information on specific sub-topics listed in the
content column. This clarifies the content for examinations.

•

Links: this column provides useful links to the aims of the mathematics SL course, with suggestions for
discussion, real-life examples and ideas for further investigation. These suggestions are only a guide
for introducing and illustrating the sub-topic and are not exhaustive. Links are labelled as follows.
Appl

real-life examples and links to other DP subjects

Aim 8

moral, social and ethical implications of the sub-topic

Int

international-mindedness

TOK

suggestions for discussion

Note that any syllabus references to other subject guides given in the “Links” column are correct for the
current (2012) published versions of the guides.

Notes on the syllabus
•

Formulae are only included in this document where there may be some ambiguity. All formulae required
for the course are in the mathematics SL formula booklet.

•

The term “technology” is used for any form of calculator or computer that may be available. However,
there will be restrictions on which technology may be used in examinations, which will be noted in
relevant documents.

•

The terms “analysis” and “analytic approach” are generally used when referring to an approach that does
not use technology.

Course of study
The content of all six topics in the syllabus must be taught, although not necessarily in the order in which they
appear in this guide. Teachers are expected to construct a course of study that addresses the needs of their
students and includes, where necessary, the topics noted in prior learning.

Integration of the mathematical exploration
Work leading to the completion of the exploration should be integrated into the course of study. Details of how
to do this are given in the section on internal assessment and in the teacher support material.

Mathematics SL guide

Approaches to the teaching and learning of mathematics SL

Time allocation
The recommended teaching time for standard level courses is 150 hours. For mathematics SL, it is expected that
10 hours will be spent on work for the exploration. The time allocations given in this guide are approximate,
and are intended to suggest how the remaining 140 hours allowed for the teaching of the syllabus might
be allocated. However, the exact time spent on each topic depends on a number of factors, including the
background knowledge and level of preparedness of each student. Teachers should therefore adjust these
timings to correspond to the needs of their students.

Use of calculators
Students are expected to have access to a graphic display calculator (GDC) at all times during the course.
The minimum requirements are reviewed as technology advances, and updated information will be provided
to schools. It is expected that teachers and schools monitor calculator use with reference to the calculator
policy. Regulations covering the types of calculators allowed in examinations are provided in the Handbook of
procedures for the Diploma Programme. Further information and advice is provided in the Mathematics HL/
SL: Graphic display calculators teacher support material (May 2005) and on the OCC.

Mathematics SL formula booklet
Each student is required to have access to a clean copy of this booklet during the examination. It is
recommended that teachers ensure students are familiar with the contents of this document from the beginning
of the course. It is the responsibility of the school to download a copy from IBIS or the OCC, check that there
are no printing errors, and ensure that there are sufficient copies available for all students.

Teacher support materials
A variety of teacher support materials will accompany this guide. These materials will include guidance for
teachers on the introduction, planning and marking of the exploration, and specimen examination papers and
markschemes.

Command terms and notation list
Teachers and students need to be familiar with the IB notation and the command terms, as these will be used
without explanation in the examination papers. The “Glossary of command terms” and “Notation list” appear
as appendices in this guide.

Mathematics SL guide

Syllabus

Prior learning topics

As noted in the previous section on prior learning, it is expected that all students have extensive previous
mathematical experiences, but these will vary. It is expected that mathematics SL students will be familiar with the
following topics before they take the examinations, because questions assume knowledge of them. Teachers must
therefore ensure that any topics listed here that are unknown to their students at the start of the course are included at
an early stage. They should also take into account the existing mathematical knowledge of their students to design an
appropriate course of study for mathematics SL. This table lists the knowledge, together with the syllabus content, that
is essential to successful completion of the mathematics SL course.
Students must be familiar with SI (Système International) units of length, mass and time, and their derived units.
Topic

Content

Number

Routine use of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, using integers, decimals and
fractions, including order of operations.
Simple positive exponents.
Simplification of expressions involving roots (surds or radicals).
Prime numbers and factors, including greatest common divisors and least common multiples.
Simple applications of ratio, percentage and proportion, linked to similarity.
Definition and elementary treatment of absolute value (modulus), a .
Rounding, decimal approximations and significant figures, including appreciation of errors.
Expression of numbers in standard form (scientific notation), that is, a × 10 , 1 ≤ a < 10 , k ∈  .
k

Sets and numbers

Concept and notation of sets, elements, universal (reference) set, empty (null) set,
complement, subset, equality of sets, disjoint sets.
Operations on sets: union and intersection.
Commutative, associative and distributive properties.
Venn diagrams.
Number systems: natural numbers; integers, ; rationals, , and irrationals; real numbers, .
Intervals on the real number line using set notation and using inequalities. Expressing the
solution set of a linear inequality on the number line and in set notation.
Mappings of the elements of one set to another. Illustration by means of sets of ordered pairs,
tables, diagrams and graphs.

Algebra

Manipulation of simple algebraic expressions involving factorization and expansion,
including quadratic expressions.
Rearrangement, evaluation and combination of simple formulae. Examples from other subject
areas, particularly the sciences, should be included.
The linear function and its graph, gradient and y-intercept.
Addition and subtraction of algebraic fractions.
The properties of order relations: <, ≤, >, ≥ .
Solution of equations and inequalities in one variable, including cases with rational coefficients.
Solution of simultaneous equations in two variables.

Mathematics SL guide

Prior learning topics

Topic

Content

Trigonometry

Angle measurement in degrees. Compass directions and three figure bearings.
Right-angle trigonometry. Simple applications for solving triangles.
Pythagoras’ theorem and its converse.

Geometry

Simple geometric transformations: translation, reflection, rotation, enlargement. Congruence
and similarity, including the concept of scale factor of an enlargement.
The circle, its centre and radius, area and circumference. The terms “arc”, “sector”, “chord”,
“tangent” and “segment”.
Perimeter and area of plane figures. Properties of triangles and quadrilaterals, including
parallelograms, rhombuses, rectangles, squares, kites and trapeziums (trapezoids); compound
shapes.
Volumes of prisms, pyramids, spheres, cylinders and cones.

Coordinate
geometry

Elementary geometry of the plane, including the concepts of dimension for point, line, plane
and space. The equation of a line in the form =
y mx + c .
Parallel and perpendicular lines, including m1 = m2 and m1m2 = −1 .
Geometry of simple plane figures.
The Cartesian plane: ordered pairs ( x, y ) , origin, axes.
Mid-point of a line segment and distance between two points in the Cartesian plane and in
three dimensions.

Statistics and
probability

Descriptive statistics: collection of raw data; display of data in pictorial and diagrammatic
forms, including pie charts, pictograms, stem and leaf diagrams, bar graphs and line graphs.
Obtaining simple statistics from discrete and continuous data, including mean, median, mode,
quartiles, range, interquartile range.
Calculating probabilities of simple events.

Mathematics SL guide

1.1

Further guidance

Applications.

Examples include compound interest and
population growth.

Arithmetic sequences and series; sum of finite Technology may be used to generate and
arithmetic series; geometric sequences and series; display sequences in several ways.
sum of finite and infinite geometric series.
Link to 2.6, exponential functions.
Sigma notation.

Content

The aim of this topic is to introduce students to some basic algebraic concepts and applications.

Topic 1—Algebra

Syllabus content

Syllabus

TOK: What is Zeno’s dichotomy paradox?
How far can mathematical facts be from
intuition?

TOK: Debate over the validity of the notion of
“infinity”: finitists such as L. Kronecker
consider that “a mathematical object does not
exist unless it can be constructed from natural
numbers in a finite number of steps”.

TOK: How did Gauss add up integers from
1 to 100? Discuss the idea of mathematical
intuition as the basis for formal proof.

Int: Aryabhatta is sometimes considered the
“father of algebra”. Compare with
al-Khawarizmi.

Int: The chess legend (Sissa ibn Dahir).

Links

9 hours

Syllabus content

Mathematics SL guide

Not required:
formal treatment of permutations and formula
for n Pr .

Calculation of binomial coefficients using
n
Pascal’s triangle and   .
r

expansion of (a + b) n , n ∈  .

The binomial theorem:

Change of base.

Laws of exponents; laws of logarithms.

Elementary treatment of exponents and
logarithms.

Mathematics SL guide

1.3

1.2

Content

3
=  .
log 5 25  2 

log 5 125 

ln 4

ln 7

Link to 5.8, binomial distribution.

Int: The so-called “Pascal’s triangle” was
known in China much earlier than Pascal.

n
  should be found using both the formula
r
and technology.
6
Example: finding   from inputting
r
n
y = 6 Cr X and then reading coefficients from
the table.

Aim 8: Pascal’s triangle. Attributing the origin
of a mathematical discovery to the wrong
mathematician.

TOK: Are logarithms an invention or
discovery? (This topic is an opportunity for
teachers to generate reflection on “the nature of
mathematics”.)

Appl: Chemistry 18.1 (Calculation of pH ).

Links

Counting principles may be used in the
development of the theorem.

Link to 2.6, logarithmic functions.

log 25 125 =

Examples: log 4 7 =
,

3
= log16 8 ;
4
−4
log 32 = 5log 2 ; (23 ) = 2−12 .

Examples: 16 4 = 8 ;

Further guidance

Syllabus content

24 hours

Mathematics SL guide

An analytic approach is also expected for
simple functions, including all those listed
under topic 2.
Link to 6.3, local maximum and minimum
points.

Use of technology to graph a variety of
functions, including ones not specifically
mentioned.

The graph of y = f −1 ( x ) as the reflection in
the line y = x of the graph of y = f ( x) .

Investigation of key features of graphs, such as
maximum and minimum values, intercepts,
horizontal and vertical asymptotes, symmetry,
and consideration of domain and range.

Function graphing skills.

Note the difference in the command terms
“draw” and “sketch”.

On examination papers, students will only be
asked to find the inverse of a one-to-one function.

Not required:
domain restriction.

The graph of a function; its equation y = f ( x) .

( f  f −1 )( x) = ( f −1  f )( x) = x .

Identity function. Inverse function f −1 .

f ( g ( x)) .

( f  g ) ( x) =

A graph is helpful in visualizing the range.

Composite functions.

Domain, range; image (value).

Example: for x  2 − x , domain is x ≤ 2 ,
range is y ≥ 0 .

Concept of function f : x  f ( x) .

Mathematics SL guide

2.2

2.1

Further guidance

Content

TOK: How accurate is a visual representation
of a mathematical concept? (Limits of graphs
in delivering information about functions and
phenomena in general, relevance of modes of
representation.)

Appl: Chemistry 11.3.1 (sketching and
interpreting graphs); geographic skills.

TOK: Is mathematics a formal language?

TOK: Is zero the same as “nothing”?

Int: The development of functions, Rene
Descartes (France), Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz
(Germany) and Leonhard Euler (Switzerland).

Links

The aims of this topic are to explore the notion of a function as a unifying theme in mathematics, and to apply functional methods to a variety of
mathematical situations. It is expected that extensive use will be made of technology in both the development and the application of this topic, rather than
elaborate analytical techniques. On examination papers, questions may be set requiring the graphing of functions that do not explicitly appear on the
syllabus, and students may need to choose the appropriate viewing window. For those functions explicitly mentioned, questions may also be set on
composition of these functions with the linear function =
y ax + b .

Topic 2—Functions and equations

Syllabus content

Mathematics SL guide

Candidates are expected to be able to change
from one form to another.
Links to 2.3, transformations; 2.7, quadratic
equations.

The quadratic function x  ax 2 + bx + c : its
graph, y-intercept (0, c) . Axis of symmetry.

The form x  a ( x − p ) ( x − q ) ,
x-intercepts ( p , 0) and (q , 0) .

The form x  a ( x − h) 2 + k , vertex (h , k ) .

Example: y = x 2 used to obtain=
y 3 x 2 + 2 by
a stretch of scale factor 3 in the y-direction
0
followed by a translation of   .
 2

1
:
q

Composite transformations.

y = f ( qx ) .

Stretch in the x-direction with scale factor

Vertical stretch with scale factor p: y = pf ( x) .

Appl: Physics 9.1 (HL only) (projectile
motion).

Appl: Physics 4.2 (simple harmonic motion).

Appl: Physics 2.1 (kinematics).

Appl: Chemistry 17.2 (equilibrium law).

 3
Translation by the vector   denotes
 −2 
horizontal shift of 3 units to the right, and
vertical shift of 2 down.

Translations:
y f ( x − a) .
=
y f ( x) + b ;=

Reflections (in both axes): y = − f ( x) ;
=
y f (− x) .

Technology should be used to investigate these Appl: Economics 1.1 (shifting of supply and
transformations.
demand curves).

Transformations of graphs.

Mathematics SL guide

2.4

2.3

Links

Further guidance

Content

Syllabus content

Mathematics SL guide

cx + d

ax + b

and its

a x = e x ln a ; log a a x = x ; a loga x = x , x > 0 .

Relationships between these functions:

Logarithmic functions and their graphs:
x  log a x , x > 0 , x  ln x , x > 0 .

xa , a>0, xe .

Exponential functions and their graphs:

Vertical and horizontal asymptotes.

graph.

The rational function x 

1
, x ≠ 0 : its
x
graph and self-inverse nature.

The reciprocal function x 

Mathematics SL guide

2.6

2.5

Content

x+7
5
, x≠ .
2x − 5
2

4
2
, x≠ ;
3x − 2
3

Links to 1.1, geometric sequences; 1.2, laws of
exponents and logarithms; 2.1, inverse
functions; 2.2, graphs of inverses; and 6.1,
limits.

Diagrams should include all asymptotes and
intercepts.

y
=

Examples:
=
h( x )

Further guidance

Int: The Babylonian method of multiplication:
( a + b) 2 − a 2 − b 2
. Sulba Sutras in ancient
ab =
2
India and the Bakhshali Manuscript contained
an algebraic formula for solving quadratic
equations.

Links

Syllabus content

Applications of graphing skills and solving
equations that relate to real-life situations.

Solving exponential equations.

The discriminant ∆= b 2 − 4ac and the nature
of the roots, that is, two distinct real roots, two
equal real roots, no real roots.

The quadratic formula.

Solving ax 2 + bx + c =
0, a ≠ 0.

Links to 2.2, function graphing skills; and 2.3–
2.6, equations involving specific functions.

Use of technology to solve a variety of
equations, including those where there is no
appropriate analytic approach.

Link to 1.1, geometric series.

Link to 1.2, exponents and logarithms.

1
Examples: 2 x−1 = 10 ,   = 9 x+1 .
3

Example: Find k given that the equation
3kx 2 + 2 x + k =
0 has two equal real roots.

Examples: e x = sin x, x 4 + 5 x − 6 =
0.

Solutions may be referred to as roots of
equations or zeros of functions.

Solving equations, both graphically and
analytically.

Mathematics SL guide

2.8

2.7

Further guidance

Content

Appl: Physics 7.2.7–7.2.9, 13.2.5, 13.2.6,
13.2.8 (radioactive decay and half-life)

Appl: Compound interest, growth and decay;
projectile motion; braking distance; electrical
circuits.

Links

Syllabus content

Mathematics SL guide

16 hours

Mathematics SL guide

sin θ
.
cos θ

π π π π
0, , , , and their multiples.
6 4 3 2

Exact values of trigonometric ratios of

Definition of tan θ as

Definition of cos θ and sin θ in terms of the
unit circle.

sin

π
3
3π
1
3
.
=
, cos = −
, tan 210° =
3
2
4
3
2

Examples:

The equation of a straight line through the
origin is y = x tan θ .

Radian measure may be expressed as exact
multiples of π , or decimals.

The circle: radian measure of angles; length of
an arc; area of a sector.

Mathematics SL guide

3.2

3.1

Further guidance

Content

TOK: Trigonometry was developed by
successive civilizations and cultures. How is
mathematical knowledge considered from a
sociocultural perspective?

Int: The first work to refer explicitly to the
sine as a function of an angle is the
Aryabhatiya of Aryabhata (ca. 510).

Aim 8: Who really invented “Pythagoras’
theorem”?

TOK: Euclid’s axioms as the building blocks
of Euclidean geometry. Link to non-Euclidean
geometry.

TOK: Which is a better measure of angle:
radian or degree? What are the “best” criteria
by which to decide?

Int: Why are there 360 degrees in a complete
turn? Links to Babylonian mathematics.

Int: Hipparchus, Menelaus and Ptolemy.

Int: Seki Takakazu calculating π to ten
decimal places.

Links

The aims of this topic are to explore the circular functions and to solve problems using trigonometry. On examination papers, radian measure should be
assumed unless otherwise indicated.

Topic 3—Circular functions and trigonometry

Syllabus content

Mathematics SL guide

Further guidance

Applications.

Transformations.

Composite functions of the form
f=
( x) a sin ( b ( x + c) ) + d .

The circular functions sin x , cos x and tan x :
their domains and ranges; amplitude, their
periodic nature; and their graphs.

Relationship between trigonometric ratios.

Examples include height of tide, motion of a
Ferris wheel.

Link to 2.3, transformation of graphs.

Example: y = sin x used to obtain y = 3sin 2 x
by a stretch of scale factor 3 in the y-direction
1
and a stretch of scale factor in the
2
x-direction.

π

=
f ( x) tan  x −  , =
f ( x) 2cos ( 3( x − 4) ) + 1 .
4


Examples:

Given cos x =

3
, and x is acute, find sin 2x
4
without finding x.

Given sin θ , finding possible values of tan θ
without finding θ .

Examples:

Simple geometrical diagrams and/or
The Pythagorean identity cos 2 θ + sin 2 θ =
1.
technology may be used to illustrate the double
Double angle identities for sine and cosine.
angle formulae (and other trigonometric
identities).

Mathematics SL guide

3.4

3.3

Content

Appl: Physics 4.2 (simple harmonic motion).

Links

Syllabus content

Mathematics SL guide

Applications.

Area of a triangle,

ab sin C .

Examples include navigation, problems in two
and three dimensions, including angles of
elevation and depression.

Link with 4.2, scalar product, noting that:
2
2
2
c =a − b ⇒ c = a + b − 2a ⋅ b .

The cosine rule.

The sine rule, including the ambiguous case.

Pythagoras’ theorem is a special case of the
cosine rule.

2sin x = cos 2 x , − π ≤ x ≤ π .

2sin 2 x + 5cos x + 1 =
0 for 0 ≤ x < 4π ,

Examples:

2 tan ( 3( x − 4) ) =
1 , − π ≤ x ≤ 3π .

2sin 2 x = 3cos x , 0o ≤ x ≤ 180o ,

Examples: 2sin x = 1 , 0 ≤ x ≤ 2π ,

Further guidance

Solution of triangles.

the general solution of trigonometric equations.

Not required:

Equations leading to quadratic equations in
sin x, cos x or tan x .

Solving trigonometric equations in a finite
interval, both graphically and analytically.

Mathematics SL guide

3.6

3.5

Content

TOK: Non-Euclidean geometry: angle sum on
a globe greater than 180°.

Int: Cosine rule: Al-Kashi and Pythagoras.

Aim 8: Attributing the origin of a
mathematical discovery to the wrong
mathematician.

Links

Syllabus content

16 hours

Mathematics SL guide

•

→

AB =
OB− OA =−
b a.

→

• position vectors OA = a ;

→

• unit vectors; base vectors; i, j and k;

• magnitude of a vector, v ;

• multiplication by a scalar, kv ; parallel
vectors;

• the sum and difference of two vectors; the
zero vector, the vector −v ;

magnitude of AB .

→

Distance between points A and B is the

Multiplication by a scalar can be illustrated by
enlargement.

The difference of v and w is
v − w = v + (− w ) . Vector sums and differences
can be represented by the diagonals of a
parallelogram.

Applications to simple geometric figures are
essential.

Algebraic and geometric approaches to the
following:

Components of a vector; column
 v1 
 
representation; v = v2  =v1i + v2 j + v3 k .
v 
 3

Link to three-dimensional geometry, x, y and z- Appl: Physics 1.3.2 (vector sums and
axes.
differences) Physics 2.2.2, 2.2.3 (vector
resultants).
Components are with respect to the unit
TOK: How do we relate a theory to the
vectors i, j and k (standard basis).
author? Who developed vector analysis:
JW Gibbs or O Heaviside?

Vectors as displacements in the plane and in
three dimensions.

Mathematics SL guide

4.1

Links

Further guidance

Content

The aim of this topic is to provide an elementary introduction to vectors, including both algebraic and geometric approaches. The use of dynamic geometry
software is extremely helpful to visualize situations in three dimensions.

Topic 4—Vectors

Syllabus content

Mathematics SL guide

Determining whether two lines intersect.

Finding the point of intersection of two lines.

Distinguishing between coincident and parallel
lines.

The angle between two lines.

Vector equation of a line in two and three
dimensions: r= a + tb .

The angle between two vectors.

Perpendicular vectors; parallel vectors.

The scalar product of two vectors.

Mathematics SL guide

4.4

4.3

4.2

Content

Interpretation of t as time and b as velocity,
with b representing speed.

Relevance of a (position) and b (direction).

For parallel vectors, w = kv , v ⋅ w =
v w.

For non-zero vectors, v ⋅ w =
0 is equivalent to
the vectors being perpendicular.

Link to 3.6, cosine rule.

The scalar product is also known as the “dot
product”.

Further guidance

TOK: Are algebra and geometry two separate
domains of knowledge? (Vector algebra is a
good opportunity to discuss how geometrical
properties are described and generalized by
algebraic methods.)

Aim 8: Vector theory is used for tracking
displacement of objects, including for peaceful
and harmful purposes.

Links

Syllabus content

35 hours

Not required:
frequency density histograms.

Grouped data: use of mid-interval values for
calculations; interval width; upper and lower
interval boundaries; modal class.

box-and-whisker plots; outliers.

Presentation of data: frequency distributions
(tables); frequency histograms with equal class
intervals;

Technology may be used to produce
histograms and box-and-whisker plots.

Outlier is defined as more than 1.5 × IQR from
the nearest quartile.

Continuous and discrete data.

Concepts of population, sample, random
sample, discrete and continuous data.

Mathematics SL guide

5.1

Further guidance

Content

Int: The St Petersburg paradox, Chebychev,
Pavlovsky.

Aim 8: Misleading statistics.

Appl: Psychology: descriptive statistics,
random sample (various places in the guide).

Links

The aim of this topic is to introduce basic concepts. It is expected that most of the calculations required will be done using technology, but explanations of
calculations by hand may enhance understanding. The emphasis is on understanding and interpreting the results obtained, in context. Statistical tables will no
longer be allowed in examinations. While many of the calculations required in examinations are estimates, it is likely that the command terms “write down”,
“find” and “calculate” will be used.

Topic 5—Statistics and probability

Syllabus content

Mathematics SL guide

Cumulative frequency; cumulative frequency
graphs; use to find median, quartiles,
percentiles.

Applications.
Values of the median and quartiles produced
by technology may be different from those
obtained from a cumulative frequency graph.

If all the data items are doubled, the median is
doubled, but the variance is increased by a
factor of 4.

If 5 is subtracted from all the data items, then
the mean is decreased by 5, but the standard
deviation is unchanged.

Examples:

Link to 2.3, transformations.

Effect of constant changes to the original data.

TOK: How easy is it to lie with statistics?

TOK: Do different measures of central
tendency express different properties of the
data? Are these measures invented or
discovered? Could mathematics make
alternative, equally true, formulae? What does
this tell us about mathematical truths?

Int: Discussion of the different formulae for
variance.

Appl: Biology 1.1.2 (calculating mean and
standard deviation ); Biology 1.1.4 (comparing
means and spreads between two or more
samples).

Appl: Statistical calculations to show patterns
and changes; geographic skills; statistical
graphs.

Calculation of mean using formula and
technology. Students should use mid-interval
values to estimate the mean of grouped data.
Calculation of standard deviation/variance
using only technology.

Appl: Psychology: descriptive statistics
(various places in the guide).

Links

On examination papers, data will be treated as
the population.

Further guidance

Dispersion: range, interquartile range,
variance, standard deviation.

Quartiles, percentiles.

Central tendency: mean, median, mode.

Statistical measures and their interpretations.

Mathematics SL guide

5.3

5.2

Content

Syllabus content

Mathematics SL guide

Technology should be used to calculate r.
However, hand calculations of r may enhance
understanding.

Pearson’s product–moment correlation
coefficient r.

Interpolation, extrapolation.

Use of the equation for prediction purposes.

n( A)
.
n(U )

Use of Venn diagrams, tree diagrams and
tables of outcomes.

The complementary events A and A′ (not A).

The probability of an event A is P(A) =

Concepts of trial, outcome, equally likely
outcomes, sample space (U) and event.

Not required:
the coefficient of determination R2.

Links to 5.1, frequency; 5.3, cumulative
frequency.

Simulations may be used to enhance this topic.

Experiments using coins, dice, cards and so on,
can enhance understanding of the distinction
between (experimental) relative frequency and
(theoretical) probability.

The sample space can be represented
diagrammatically in many ways.

Technology should be used find the equation.

Equation of the regression line of y on x.

Mathematical and contextual interpretation.

The line of best fit passes through the mean
point.

Scatter diagrams; lines of best fit.

Positive, zero, negative; strong, weak, no
correlation.

Independent variable x, dependent variable y.

Linear correlation of bivariate data.

Mathematics SL guide

5.5

5.4

Further guidance

Content

TOK: To what extent does mathematics offer
models of real life? Is there always a function
to model data behaviour?

TOK: Can all data be modelled by a (known)
mathematical function? Consider the reliability
and validity of mathematical models in
describing real-life phenomena.

TOK: Can we predict the value of x from y,
using this equation?

Appl: Biology 1.1.6 (correlation does not
imply causation).

Measures of correlation; geographic skills.

Appl: Geography (geographic skills).

Appl: Chemistry 11.3.3 (curves of best fit).

Links

Syllabus content

Mathematics SL guide

Expected value (mean), E(X ) for discrete data. E( X ) = 0 indicates a fair game where X
represents the gain of one of the players.
Applications.
Examples include games of chance.

Concept of discrete random variables and their
probability distributions.

Probabilities with and without replacement.
Simple examples only, such as:
1
P( X= x=
)
(4 + x) for x ∈ {1, 2,3} ;
18
5 6 7
P( X= x=
)
, , .
18 18 18

Problems are often best solved with the aid of a
Venn diagram or tree diagram, without explicit
use of formulae.

Mutually exclusive events: P( A ∩ B ) =
0.

Conditional probability; the definition
P( A ∩ B )
.
P( A | B) =
P( B )
Independent events; the definition
P ( A=
| B ) P(
=
A) P ( A | B′ ) .

The non-exclusivity of “or”.

Further guidance

Combined events, P( A ∪ B ) .

Mathematics SL guide

5.7

5.6

Content

TOK: Can gambling be considered as an
application of mathematics? (This is a good
opportunity to generate a debate on the nature,
role and ethics of mathematics regarding its
applications.)

TOK: Is mathematics useful to measure risks?

Aim 8: The gambling issue: use of probability
in casinos. Could or should mathematics help
increase incomes in gambling?

Links

Syllabus content

Probabilities and values of the variable must be Appl: Biology 1.1.3 (links to normal
found using technology.
distribution).

Normal distributions and curves.

Properties of the normal distribution.

z-scores).
The standardized value ( z ) gives the number
of standard deviations from the mean.

Appl: Psychology: descriptive statistics
(various places in the guide).

Technology is usually the best way of
calculating binomial probabilities.

Not required:
formal proof of mean and variance.

Link to 2.3, transformations.

Conditions under which random variables have
this distribution.

Mean and variance of the binomial
distribution.

Standardization of normal variables (z-values,

Link to 1.3, binomial theorem.

Binomial distribution.

Mathematics SL guide

5.9

5.8

Links

Further guidance

Content

Syllabus content

Mathematics SL guide

40 hours

Mathematics SL guide

1
.
3

Not required:
analytic methods of calculating limits.

Technology can be used to explore graphs and
their derivatives.

Use of both analytic approaches and
technology.

Tangents and normals, and their equations.

dy
and f ′ ( x ) ,
dx

Identifying intervals on which functions are
increasing or decreasing.

for the first derivative.

Use of both forms of notation,

Link to 1.3, binomial theorem.

Technology could be used to illustrate other
derivatives.

Use of this definition for derivatives of simple
polynomial functions only.

Links to 1.1, infinite geometric series; 2.5–2.7,
rational and exponential functions, and
asymptotes.

 2x + 3 
Example: lim 

x →∞
 x −1 

Technology should be used to explore ideas of
limits, numerically and graphically.

Example: 0.3, 0.33, 0.333, ... converges to

Further guidance

Derivative interpreted as gradient function and
as rate of change.

Definition of derivative from first principles as
 f ( x + h) − f ( x ) 
f ′( x) = lim 
.
h →0
h



Limit notation.

Informal ideas of limit and convergence.

Mathematics SL guide

6.1

Content

TOK: Opportunities for discussing hypothesis
formation and testing, and then the formal
proof can be tackled by comparing certain
cases, through an investigative approach.

TOK: What value does the knowledge of
limits have? Is infinitesimal behaviour
applicable to real life?

Aim 8: The debate over whether Newton or
Leibnitz discovered certain calculus concepts.

Appl: Chemistry 11.3.4 (interpreting the
gradient of a curve).

Appl: Economics 1.5 (marginal cost, marginal
revenue, marginal profit).

Links

The aim of this topic is to introduce students to the basic concepts and techniques of differential and integral calculus and their applications.

Topic 6—Calculus

Syllabus content

Link to 2.1, composition of functions.
Technology may be used to investigate the chain
rule.
Use of both forms of notation,
d2 y
and f ′′( x) .
dx 2
dn y
and f ( n ) ( x) .
n
dx

The product and quotient rules.

The second derivative.

Extension to higher derivatives.

Further guidance

The chain rule for composite functions.

Differentiation of a sum and a real multiple of
these functions.

e x and ln x .

Derivative of x n (n ∈ ) , sin x , cos x , tan x ,

Mathematics SL guide

6.2

Content

Links

Syllabus content

Mathematics SL guide

for example, y = x1 3 at (0,0) .

Link to 2.2, graphing functions.
Not required:
points of inflexion where f ′′( x) is not defined:

Examples include profit, area, volume.

Use of the first or second derivative test to
justify maximum and/or minimum values.

Technology can display the graph of a
derivative without explicitly finding an
expression for the derivative.

Optimization.

f ′′( x) = 0 is not a sufficient condition for a
point of inflexion: for example,
y = x 4 at (0,0) .

At a point of inflexion , f ′′( x) = 0 and changes
sign (concavity change).

Use of the terms “concave-up” for f ′′( x) > 0 ,
and “concave-down” for f ′′( x) < 0 .

Both “global” (for large x ) and “local”
behaviour.

Applications.

Links

Using change of sign of the first derivative and Appl: profit, area, volume.
using sign of the second derivative.

Further guidance

Graphical behaviour of functions,
including the relationship between the
graphs of f , f ′ and f ′′ .

Points of inflexion with zero and non-zero
gradients.

Testing for maximum or minimum.

Local maximum and minimum points.

Mathematics SL guide

6.3

Content

Syllabus content

Mathematics SL guide

f ′(=
x ) cos(2 x + 3)

g ′( x=
)dx g (b) − g ( a ) .

Total distance travelled.

Kinematic problems involving displacement s,
velocity v and acceleration a.

ds
dv d 2 s
;=
.
a =
dt dt 2
dt
t2

Total distance travelled = ∫ v dt .

Technology may be used to enhance
understanding of area and volume.

Areas between curves.

Volumes of revolution about the x-axis.

Students are expected to first write a correct
expression before calculating the area.

Areas under curves (between the curve and the
x-axis).

The value of some definite integrals can only
be found using technology.

∫

sin x

∫ cos x dx .

sin(2 x + 3) + C .

Definite integrals, both analytically and using
technology.

dx,

Example:
dy
if = 3x 2 + x and y = 10 when x = 0 , then
dx
1
y=
x 3 + x 2 + 10 .
2

f (=
x)

Anti-differentiation with a boundary condition
to determine the constant term.

∫ x sin x

⇒

ln x + C , x > 0 .

Example:

dx
∫ x=

Further guidance

Integration by inspection, or substitution of the Examples:
4
form ∫ f ( g ( x)) g '( x) dx .
2
∫ 2 x ( x + 1) dx,

The composites of any of these with the linear
function ax + b .

Indefinite integral of x n ( n ∈ ) , sin x , cos x ,
1
and e x .
x

Indefinite integration as anti-differentiation.

Mathematics SL guide

6.6

6.5

6.4

Content

Appl: Physics 2.1 (kinematics).

Int: Ibn Al Haytham: first mathematician to
calculate the integral of a function, in order to
find the volume of a paraboloid.

Accurate calculation of the volume of a
cylinder by Chinese mathematician Liu Hui

Use of infinitesimals by Greek geometers.

Int: Successful calculation of the volume of
the pyramidal frustum by ancient Egyptians
(Egyptian Moscow papyrus).

Links

Syllabus content

Assessment

Assessment in the Diploma Programme

General
Assessment is an integral part of teaching and learning. The most important aims of assessment in the Diploma
Programme are that it should support curricular goals and encourage appropriate student learning. Both
external and internal assessment are used in the Diploma Programme. IB examiners mark work produced
for external assessment, while work produced for internal assessment is marked by teachers and externally
moderated by the IB.
There are two types of assessment identified by the IB.
•

Formative assessment informs both teaching and learning. It is concerned with providing accurate and
helpful feedback to students and teachers on the kind of learning taking place and the nature of students’
strengths and weaknesses in order to help develop students’ understanding and capabilities. Formative
assessment can also help to improve teaching quality, as it can provide information to monitor progress
towards meeting the course aims and objectives.

•

Summative assessment gives an overview of previous learning and is concerned with measuring student
achievement.

The Diploma Programme primarily focuses on summative assessment designed to record student achievement
at or towards the end of the course of study. However, many of the assessment instruments can also be
used formatively during the course of teaching and learning, and teachers are encouraged to do this. A
comprehensive assessment plan is viewed as being integral with teaching, learning and course organization.
For further information, see the IB Programme standards and practices document.
The approach to assessment used by the IB is criterion-related, not norm-referenced. This approach to
assessment judges students’ work by their performance in relation to identified levels of attainment, and not in
relation to the work of other students. For further information on assessment within the Diploma Programme,
please refer to the publication Diploma Programme assessment: Principles and practice.
To support teachers in the planning, delivery and assessment of the Diploma Programme courses, a variety
of resources can be found on the OCC or purchased from the IB store (http://store.ibo.org). Teacher support
materials, subject reports, internal assessment guidance, grade descriptors, as well as resources from other
teachers, can be found on the OCC. Specimen and past examination papers as well as markschemes can be
purchased from the IB store.

Methods of assessment
The IB uses several methods to assess work produced by students.

Assessment criteria
Assessment criteria are used when the assessment task is open-ended. Each criterion concentrates on a
particular skill that students are expected to demonstrate. An assessment objective describes what students
should be able to do, and assessment criteria describe how well they should be able to do it. Using assessment
criteria allows discrimination between different answers and encourages a variety of responses. Each criterion

Mathematics SL guide

Assessment in the Diploma Programme

comprises a set of hierarchically ordered level descriptors. Each level descriptor is worth one or more marks.
Each criterion is applied independently using a best-fit model. The maximum marks for each criterion may
differ according to the criterion’s importance. The marks awarded for each criterion are added together to give
the total mark for the piece of work.

Markbands
Markbands are a comprehensive statement of expected performance against which responses are judged. They
represent a single holistic criterion divided into level descriptors. Each level descriptor corresponds to a range
of marks to differentiate student performance. A best-fit approach is used to ascertain which particular mark to
use from the possible range for each level descriptor.

Markschemes
This generic term is used to describe analytic markschemes that are prepared for specific examination papers.
Analytic markschemes are prepared for those examination questions that expect a particular kind of response
and/or a given final answer from the students. They give detailed instructions to examiners on how to break
down the total mark for each question for different parts of the response. A markscheme may include the
content expected in the responses to questions or may be a series of marking notes giving guidance on how to
apply criteria.

Mathematics SL guide

Assessment

Assessment outline

First examinations 2014

Assessment component

Weighting

External assessment (3 hours)

80%

Paper 1 (1 hour 30 minutes)

40%

No calculator allowed. (90 marks)
Section A
Compulsory short-response questions based on the whole syllabus.
Section B
Compulsory extended-response questions based on the whole syllabus.

Paper 2 (1 hour 30 minutes)

40%

Graphic display calculator required. (90 marks)
Section A
Compulsory short-response questions based on the whole syllabus.
Section B
Compulsory extended-response questions based on the whole syllabus.

Internal assessment

20%

This component is internally assessed by the teacher and externally moderated by the IB at
the end of the course.

Mathematical exploration
Internal assessment in mathematics SL is an individual exploration. This is a piece of
written work that involves investigating an area of mathematics. (20 marks)

Mathematics SL guide

Assessment

External assessment

General
Markschemes are used to assess students in both papers. The markschemes are specific to each examination.

External assessment details
Paper 1 and paper 2
These papers are externally set and externally marked. Together, they contribute 80% of the final mark for
the course. These papers are designed to allow students to demonstrate what they know and what they can do.

Calculators
Paper 1
Students are not permitted access to any calculator. Questions will mainly involve analytic approaches to
solutions, rather than requiring the use of a GDC. The paper is not intended to require complicated calculations,
with the potential for careless errors. However, questions will include some arithmetical manipulations when
they are essential to the development of the question.

Paper 2
Students must have access to a GDC at all times. However, not all questions will necessarily require the use of
the GDC. Regulations covering the types of GDC allowed are provided in the Handbook of procedures for the
Diploma Programme.

Mathematics SL formula booklet
Each student must have access to a clean copy of the formula booklet during the examination. It is the
responsibility of the school to download a copy from IBIS or the OCC and to ensure that there are sufficient
copies available for all students.

Awarding of marks
Marks may be awarded for method, accuracy, answers and reasoning, including interpretation.
In paper 1 and paper 2, full marks are not necessarily awarded for a correct answer with no working.
Answers must be supported by working and/or explanations (in the form of, for example, diagrams, graphs
or calculations). Where an answer is incorrect, some marks may be given for correct method, provided this is
shown by written working. All students should therefore be advised to show their working.

Mathematics SL guide

External assessment

Paper 1
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Weighting: 40%
•
This paper consists of section A, short-response questions, and section B, extended-response questions.
•

Students are not permitted access to any calculator on this paper.

Syllabus coverage
•

Knowledge of all topics is required for this paper. However, not all topics are necessarily assessed in
every examination session.

Mark allocation
•

This paper is worth 90 marks, representing 40% of the final mark.

•

Questions of varying levels of difficulty and length are set. Therefore, individual questions may not
necessarily each be worth the same number of marks. The exact number of marks allocated to each
question is indicated at the start of the question.

Section A
This section consists of compulsory short-response questions based on the whole syllabus. It is worth
approximately 45 marks.
The intention of this section is to test students’ knowledge and understanding across the breadth of the syllabus.
However, it should not be assumed that the separate topics are given equal emphasis.
Question type
•
A small number of steps is needed to solve each question.
•

Questions may be presented in the form of words, symbols, diagrams or tables, or combinations of these.

Section B
This section consists of a small number of compulsory extended-response questions based on the whole
syllabus. It is worth approximately 45 marks. Individual questions may require knowledge of more than
one topic.
The intention of this section is to test students’ knowledge and understanding of the syllabus in depth. The
range of syllabus topics tested in this section may be narrower than that tested in section A.
Question type
•
Questions require extended responses involving sustained reasoning.
•

Individual questions will develop a single theme.

•

Questions may be presented in the form of words, symbols, diagrams or tables, or combinations of these.

•

Normally, each question reflects an incline of difficulty, from relatively easy tasks at the start of a
question to relatively difficult tasks at the end of a question. The emphasis is on problem-solving.

Paper 2
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Weighting: 40%
This paper consists of section A, short-response questions, and section B, extended-response questions. A
GDC is required for this paper, but not every question will necessarily require its use.

Mathematics SL guide

External assessment

Syllabus coverage
•

Knowledge of all topics is required for this paper. However, not all topics are necessarily assessed in
every examination session.

Mark allocation
•

This paper is worth 90 marks, representing 40% of the final mark.

•

Questions may be presented in the form of words, symbols, diagrams or tables, or combinations of these.

Section B
This section consists of a small number of compulsory extended-response questions based on the whole
syllabus. It is worth approximately 45 marks. Individual questions may require knowledge of more than one
topic.
The intention of this section is to test students’ knowledge and understanding of the syllabus in depth. The
range of syllabus topics tested in this section may be narrower than that tested in section A.
Question type
•
Questions require extended responses involving sustained reasoning.
•

Individual questions will develop a single theme.

•

Questions may be presented in the form of words, symbols, diagrams or tables, or combinations of these.

•

Mathematics SL guide

Assessment

Internal assessment

Purpose of internal assessment
Internal assessment is an integral part of the course and is compulsory for all students. It enables students to
demonstrate the application of their skills and knowledge, and to pursue their personal interests, without the
time limitations and other constraints that are associated with written examinations. The internal assessment
should, as far as possible, be woven into normal classroom teaching and not be a separate activity conducted
after a course has been taught.
Internal assessment in mathematics SL is an individual exploration. This is a piece of written work that
involves investigating an area of mathematics. It is marked according to five assessment criteria.

Guidance and authenticity
The exploration submitted for internal assessment must be the student’s own work. However, it is not the
intention that students should decide upon a title or topic and be left to work on the exploration without any
further support from the teacher. The teacher should play an important role during both the planning stage and
the period when the student is working on the exploration. It is the responsibility of the teacher to ensure that
students are familiar with:
•

the requirements of the type of work to be internally assessed

•

the IB academic honesty policy available on the OCC

•

the assessment criteria—students must understand that the work submitted for assessment must address
these criteria effectively.

Teachers and students must discuss the exploration. Students should be encouraged to initiate discussions
with the teacher to obtain advice and information, and students must not be penalized for seeking guidance.
However, if a student could not have completed the exploration without substantial support from the teacher,
this should be recorded on the appropriate form from the Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme.
It is the responsibility of teachers to ensure that all students understand the basic meaning and significance
of concepts that relate to academic honesty, especially authenticity and intellectual property. Teachers must
ensure that all student work for assessment is prepared according to the requirements and must explain clearly
to students that the exploration must be entirely their own.
As part of the learning process, teachers can give advice to students on a first draft of the exploration. This
advice should be in terms of the way the work could be improved, but this first draft must not be heavily
annotated or edited by the teacher. The next version handed to the teacher after the first draft must be the final
one.
All work submitted to the IB for moderation or assessment must be authenticated by a teacher, and must not
include any known instances of suspected or confirmed malpractice. Each student must sign the coversheet for
internal assessment to confirm that the work is his or her authentic work and constitutes the final version of
that work. Once a student has officially submitted the final version of the work to a teacher (or the coordinator)
for internal assessment, together with the signed coversheet, it cannot be retracted.

Mathematics SL guide

Internal assessment

Authenticity may be checked by discussion with the student on the content of the work, and scrutiny of one or
more of the following:
•

the student’s initial proposal

•

the first draft of the written work

•

the references cited

•

the style of writing compared with work known to be that of the student.

The requirement for teachers and students to sign the coversheet for internal assessment applies to the work of
all students, not just the sample work that will be submitted to an examiner for the purpose of moderation. If the
teacher and student sign a coversheet, but there is a comment to the effect that the work may not be authentic,
the student will not be eligible for a mark in that component and no grade will be awarded. For further details
refer to the IB publication Academic honesty and the relevant articles in the General regulations: Diploma
Programme.
The same piece of work cannot be submitted to meet the requirements of both the internal assessment and the
extended essay.

Group work
Group work should not be used for explorations. Each exploration is an individual piece of work.
It should be made clear to students that all work connected with the exploration, including the writing of
the exploration, should be their own. It is therefore helpful if teachers try to encourage in students a sense
of responsibility for their own learning so that they accept a degree of ownership and take pride in their
own work.

Time allocation
Internal assessment is an integral part of the mathematics SL course, contributing 20% to the final assessment
in the course. This weighting should be reflected in the time that is allocated to teaching the knowledge, skills
and understanding required to undertake the work as well as the total time allocated to carry out the work.
It is expected that a total of approximately 10 teaching hours should be allocated to the work. This should
include:
•

time for the teacher to explain to students the requirements of the exploration

•

class time for students to work on the exploration

•

time for consultation between the teacher and each student

•

time to review and monitor progress, and to check authenticity.

Using assessment criteria for internal assessment
For internal assessment, a number of assessment criteria have been identified. Each assessment criterion has
level descriptors describing specific levels of achievement together with an appropriate range of marks. The
level descriptors concentrate on positive achievement, although for the lower levels failure to achieve may be
included in the description.

Mathematics SL guide

Internal assessment

Teachers must judge the internally assessed work against the criteria using the level descriptors.
•

The aim is to find, for each criterion, the descriptor that conveys most accurately the level attained by
the student.

•

When assessing a student’s work, teachers should read the level descriptors for each criterion, starting
with level 0, until they reach a descriptor that describes a level of achievement that has not been reached.
The level of achievement gained by the student is therefore the preceding one, and it is this that should
be recorded.

•

Only whole numbers should be recorded; partial marks, that is fractions and decimals, are not acceptable.

•

Teachers should not think in terms of a pass or fail boundary, but should concentrate on identifying the
appropriate descriptor for each assessment criterion.

•

The highest level descriptors do not imply faultless performance but should be achievable by a student.
Teachers should not hesitate to use the extremes if they are appropriate descriptions of the work being
assessed.

•

A student who attains a high level of achievement in relation to one criterion will not necessarily attain
high levels of achievement in relation to the other criteria. Similarly, a student who attains a low level
of achievement for one criterion will not necessarily attain low achievement levels for the other criteria.
Teachers should not assume that the overall assessment of the students will produce any particular
distribution of marks.

•

It is expected that the assessment criteria be made available to students.

Internal assessment details
Mathematical exploration
Duration: 10 teaching hours
Weighting: 20%

Introduction
The internally assessed component in this course is a mathematical exploration. This is a short report written
by the student based on a topic chosen by him or her, and it should focus on the mathematics of that particular
area. The emphasis is on mathematical communication (including formulae, diagrams, graphs and so on), with
accompanying commentary, good mathematical writing and thoughtful reflection. A student should develop
his or her own focus, with the teacher providing feedback via, for example, discussion and interview. This will
allow the students to develop area(s) of interest to them without a time constraint as in an examination, and
allow all students to experience a feeling of success.
The final report should be approximately 6 to 12 pages long. It can be either word processed or handwritten.
Students should be able to explain all stages of their work in such a way that demonstrates clear understanding.
While there is no requirement that students present their work in class, it should be written in such a way that
their peers would be able to follow it fairly easily. The report should include a detailed bibliography, and sources
need to be referenced in line with the IB academic honesty policy. Direct quotes must be acknowledged.

The purpose of the exploration
The aims of the mathematics SL course are carried through into the objectives that are formally assessed as
part of the course, through either written examination papers, or the exploration, or both. In addition to testing
the objectives of the course, the exploration is intended to provide students with opportunities to increase their
understanding of mathematical concepts and processes, and to develop a wider appreciation of mathematics.
These are noted in the aims of the course, in particular, aims 6–9 (applications, technology, moral, social

Mathematics SL guide

Internal assessment

and ethical implications, and the international dimension). It is intended that, by doing the exploration,
students benefit from the mathematical activities undertaken and find them both stimulating and rewarding. It
will enable students to acquire the attributes of the IB learner profile.
The specific purposes of the exploration are to:
•

develop students’ personal insight into the nature of mathematics and to develop their ability to ask their
own questions about mathematics

•

provide opportunities for students to complete a piece of mathematical work over an extended period of
time

•

enable students to experience the satisfaction of applying mathematical processes independently

•

provide students with the opportunity to experience for themselves the beauty, power and usefulness of
mathematics

•

encourage students, where appropriate, to discover, use and appreciate the power of technology as a
mathematical tool

•

enable students to develop the qualities of patience and persistence, and to reflect on the significance of
their work

•

provide opportunities for students to show, with confidence, how they have developed mathematically.

Management of the exploration
Work for the exploration should be incorporated into the course so that students are given the opportunity to
learn the skills needed. Time in class can therefore be used for general discussion of areas of study, as well as
familiarizing students with the criteria.
Further details on the development of the exploration are included in the teacher support material.

Requirements and recommendations
Students can choose from a wide variety of activities, for example, modelling, investigations and applications
of mathematics. To assist teachers and students in the choice of a topic, a list of stimuli is available in the
teacher support material. However, students are not restricted to this list.
The exploration should not normally exceed 12 pages, including diagrams and graphs, but excluding the
bibliography. However, it is the quality of the mathematical writing that is important, not the length.
The teacher is expected to give appropriate guidance at all stages of the exploration by, for example, directing
students into more productive routes of inquiry, making suggestions for suitable sources of information, and
providing advice on the content and clarity of the exploration in the writing-up stage.
Teachers are responsible for indicating to students the existence of errors but should not explicitly correct these
errors. It must be emphasized that students are expected to consult the teacher throughout the process.
All students should be familiar with the requirements of the exploration and the criteria by which it is assessed.
Students need to start planning their explorations as early as possible in the course. Deadlines should be firmly
established. There should be a date for submission of the exploration topic and a brief outline description, a
date for the submission of the first draft and, of course, a date for completion.
In developing their explorations, students should aim to make use of mathematics learned as part of the course.
The mathematics used should be commensurate with the level of the course, that is, it should be similar to that
suggested by the syllabus. It is not expected that students produce work that is outside the mathematics SL
syllabus—however, this is not penalized.

Mathematics SL guide

Internal assessment

Internal assessment criteria
The exploration is internally assessed by the teacher and externally moderated by the IB using assessment
criteria that relate to the objectives for mathematics SL.
Each exploration is assessed against the following five criteria. The final mark for each exploration is the sum
of the scores for each criterion. The maximum possible final mark is 20.
Students will not receive a grade for mathematics SL if they have not submitted an exploration.
Criterion A

Communication

Criterion B

Mathematical presentation

Criterion C

Personal engagement

Criterion D

Reflection

Criterion E

Use of mathematics

Criterion A: Communication
This criterion assesses the organization and coherence of the exploration. A well-organized exploration
includes an introduction, has a rationale (which includes explaining why this topic was chosen), describes the
aim of the exploration and has a conclusion. A coherent exploration is logically developed and easy to follow.
Graphs, tables and diagrams should accompany the work in the appropriate place and not be attached as
appendices to the document.
Achievement level

Descriptor

The exploration does not reach the standard described by the descriptors
below.

The exploration has some coherence.

The exploration has some coherence and shows some organization.

The exploration is coherent and well organized.

The exploration is coherent, well organized, concise and complete.

Criterion B: Mathematical presentation
This criterion assesses to what extent the student is able to:
•

use appropriate mathematical language (notation, symbols, terminology)

•

define key terms, where required

•

use multiple forms of mathematical representation, such as formulae, diagrams, tables, charts, graphs
and models, where appropriate.

Students are expected to use mathematical language when communicating mathematical ideas, reasoning and
findings.

Mathematics SL guide

Internal assessment

Students are encouraged to choose and use appropriate ICT tools such as graphic display calculators,
screenshots, graphing, spreadsheets, databases, drawing and word-processing software, as appropriate, to
enhance mathematical communication.
Achievement level

Descriptor

The exploration does not reach the standard described by the descriptors
below.

There is some appropriate mathematical presentation.

The mathematical presentation is mostly appropriate.

The mathematical presentation is appropriate throughout.

Criterion C: Personal engagement
This criterion assesses the extent to which the student engages with the exploration and makes it their own.
Personal engagement may be recognized in different attributes and skills. These include thinking independently
and/or creatively, addressing personal interest and presenting mathematical ideas in their own way.
Achievement level

Descriptor

The exploration does not reach the standard described by the descriptors
below.

There is evidence of limited or superficial personal engagement.

There is evidence of some personal engagement.

There is evidence of significant personal engagement.

There is abundant evidence of outstanding personal engagement.

Criterion D: Reflection
This criterion assesses how the student reviews, analyses and evaluates the exploration. Although reflection
may be seen in the conclusion to the exploration, it may also be found throughout the exploration.
Achievement level

Descriptor

The exploration does not reach the standard described by the descriptors
below.

There is evidence of limited or superficial reflection.

There is evidence of meaningful reflection.

There is substantial evidence of critical reflection.

Mathematics SL guide

Internal assessment

Criterion E: Use of mathematics
This criterion assesses to what extent students use mathematics in the exploration.
Students are expected to produce work that is commensurate with the level of the course. The mathematics
explored should either be part of the syllabus, or at a similar level or beyond. It should not be completely
based on mathematics listed in the prior learning. If the level of mathematics is not commensurate with the
level of the course, a maximum of two marks can be awarded for this criterion.
The mathematics can be regarded as correct even if there are occasional minor errors as long as they do not
detract from the flow of the mathematics or lead to an unreasonable outcome.
Achievement level

Descriptor

The exploration does not reach the standard described by the descriptors
below.

Some relevant mathematics is used.

Some relevant mathematics is used. Limited understanding is demonstrated.

Relevant mathematics commensurate with the level of the course is used.
Limited understanding is demonstrated.

Relevant mathematics commensurate with the level of the course is used.
The mathematics explored is partially correct. Some knowledge and
understanding are demonstrated.

Relevant mathematics commensurate with the level of the course is used. The
mathematics explored is mostly correct. Good knowledge and understanding
are demonstrated.

Relevant mathematics commensurate with the level of the course is used. The
mathematics explored is correct. Thorough knowledge and understanding are
demonstrated.

Mathematics SL guide

Appendices

Glossary of command terms

Command terms with definitions
Students should be familiar with the following key terms and phrases used in examination questions, which
are to be understood as described below. Although these terms will be used in examination questions, other
terms may be used to direct students to present an argument in a specific way.
Calculate

Obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working.

Comment

Give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation.

Compare

Give an account of the similarities between two (or more) items or situations,
referring to both (all) of them throughout.

Compare and
contrast

Give an account of the similarities and differences between two (or more) items or
situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.

Construct

Display information in a diagrammatic or logical form.

Contrast

Give an account of the differences between two (or more) items or situations,
referring to both (all) of them throughout.

Deduce

Reach a conclusion from the information given.

Demonstrate

Make clear by reasoning or evidence, illustrating with examples or practical
application.

Describe

Give a detailed account.

Determine

Obtain the only possible answer.

Differentiate

Obtain the derivative of a function.

Distinguish

Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items.

Draw

Represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph, using a pencil. A
ruler (straight edge) should be used for straight lines. Diagrams should be drawn
to scale. Graphs should have points correctly plotted (if appropriate) and joined in
a straight line or smooth curve.

Estimate

Obtain an approximate value.

Explain

Give a detailed account, including reasons or causes.

Find

Obtain an answer, showing relevant stages in the working.

Hence

Use the preceding work to obtain the required result.

Hence or otherwise

It is suggested that the preceding work is used, but other methods could also
receive credit.

Identify

Provide an answer from a number of possibilities.

Mathematics SL guide

Glossary of command terms

Integrate

Obtain the integral of a function.

Interpret

Use knowledge and understanding to recognize trends and draw conclusions from
given information.

Investigate

Observe, study, or make a detailed and systematic examination, in order to
establish facts and reach new conclusions.

Justify

Give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion.

Label

Add labels to a diagram.

List

Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation.

Plot

Mark the position of points on a diagram.

Predict

Give an expected result.

Show

Give the steps in a calculation or derivation.

Show that

Obtain the required result (possibly using information given) without the formality
of proof. “Show that” questions do not generally require the use of a calculator.

Sketch

Represent by means of a diagram or graph (labelled as appropriate). The sketch
should give a general idea of the required shape or relationship, and should include
relevant features.

Solve

Obtain the answer(s) using algebraic and/or numerical and/or graphical methods.

State

Give a specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or
calculation.

Suggest

Propose a solution, hypothesis or other possible answer.

Verify

Provide evidence that validates the result.

Write down

Obtain the answer(s), usually by extracting information. Little or no calculation is
required. Working does not need to be shown.

Mathematics SL guide

Appendices

Notation list

Of the various notations in use, the IB has chosen to adopt a system of notation based on the
recommendations of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This notation is used in
the examination papers for this course without explanation. If forms of notation other than those listed
in this guide are used on a particular examination paper, they are defined within the question in which
they appear.
Because students are required to recognize, though not necessarily use, IB notation in examinations, it
is recommended that teachers introduce students to this notation at the earliest opportunity. Students
are not allowed access to information about this notation in the examinations.
Students must always use correct mathematical notation, not calculator notation.


the set of positive integers and zero, {0,1, 2, 3, ...}



the set of integers, {0, ± 1, ± 2, ± 3, ...}

+

the set of positive integers, {1, 2, 3, ...}



the set of rational numbers

+

the set of positive rational numbers, {x | x ∈ , x > 0}



the set of real numbers

+

the set of positive real numbers, {x | x ∈ , x > 0}

{x1 , x2 , ...}

the set with elements x1 , x2 , ...

n( A)

the number of elements in the finite set A

{x | }

the set of all x such that

∈

is an element of

∉

is not an element of

∅

the empty (null) set

the universal set

∪

Union

Mathematics SL guide

Notation list

∩

Intersection

⊂

is a proper subset of

⊆

is a subset of

A′

the complement of the set A

a|b

a divides b

a1/ n ,

a to the power of

1 th
, n root of a (if a ≥ 0 then
n

a ≥0)

 x for x ≥ 0, x ∈ 
modulus or absolute value of x , that is 
− x for x < 0, x ∈ 

≈

is approximately equal to

is greater than

≥

is greater than or equal to

is less than

≤

is less than or equal to

is not greater than

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