Qualification Aims and Objectives

The course develops students’ understanding of how mathematics is used to model and interpret the world around them, while fostering inquiry, critical thinking, and practical application. It encourages students to be knowledgeable, inquiring, and open-minded, and to appreciate the relevance of mathematics in a data-rich, technological world.

Objectives

• Develop a curiosity and enjoyment of mathematics, and appreciate its elegance and power.
• Develop an understanding of mathematical concepts, principles, and the nature of mathematics.
• Communicate mathematics clearly, concisely, and confidently in a variety of contexts.
• Develop logical and creative thinking, and persistence in problem-solving to build confidence in using mathematics.
• Employ and refine powers of abstraction and generalisation, and apply skills to other areas of knowledge and real-world contexts.
• Appreciate how developments in technology and mathematics influence each other.

Course Outline

Syllabus Themes

• Number & Algebra: Fundamental operations, number systems, algebraic manipulation.
• Functions: Understanding and using functions to model relationships; interpreting behaviour of functions.
• Geometry & Trigonometry: Spatial reasoning, applications of trigonometry, geometry in context.
• Statistics & Probability: Descriptive statistics, probability models, data interpretation and inference.
• Calculus: Introduction to differentiation and integration for modelling change and dynamic systems.
• Mathematical Exploration (Internal Assessment): Students undertake an individual investigation applying mathematics to a real-world context.

Assessment (SL)

• External exams (80%): Assess knowledge and application across the syllabus themes, including use of technology and modelling.
• Internal Assessment (20%): A Mathematical Exploration task where students investigate a topic of interest, gather data, model, and interpret results.

Future courses and possible careers

Actuarial Science • Data Analysis • Statistics • Finance and Banking • Economics • Operations Research • Business Analytics • Computer Science • Engineering Support Roles • Environmental Modelling • Market Research • Risk Management • Public Policy & Research • Teaching • Data Journalism • Technology and Software Development