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What type of person should consider taking Math AA?
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SL - Standard Level
- Are comfortable with algebra and functions but don’t necessarily want the heaviest math load.
- Prefer practical applications of math but still want a strong foundation (useful for sciences, business, economics).
- Want to keep options open for university without specializing too deeply in math-heavy fields.
- Are okay with using technology (calculators, graphing software) for problem solving.
- Like math but prefer focusing on understanding methods and applying them, not deep abstract proofs.
- Often chosen by students who want to pursue: economics, business, life sciences, psychology, or social sciences at university.
HL - High Level
- Love math and enjoy exploring challenging, abstract problems.
- Are strong in algebra, proofs, and logical reasoning, and like spending time on hard questions.
- Want to develop skills in advanced calculus, statistics, and mathematical proofs.
- Are aiming for careers in math, physics, engineering, computer science, quantitative economics/finance, or any STEM field where high-level math is required.
- Are disciplined and willing to put in consistent practice (HL moves fast and is demanding).
- Enjoy the “puzzle-solving” side of math — deriving formulas, proving identities, and modeling real-world systems.
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Career Options
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- Statistics
- Engineer (civil, mechanical, electrical, aerospace, etc.)
- Computer scientist / Software developer
- Data scientist / AI researcher
- Physicist / Research scientist
- Quantitative analyst (finance)
|
Units + Hours |
Types of papers+ Weightage |
IA |
Assessment Objectives (AOs) |
| SL |
Number & Algebra – 19 hrs• Functions – 21 hrs• Geometry & Trig – 25 hrs• Probability & Stats – 27 hrs• Calculus – 28 hrs• Toolkit/Exploration – 30 hrs |
Paper 1 – No calculator (short + extended response)Paper 2 – Calculator allowed (short + extended response) |
20 page investigation into a chosen mathematical area |
Knowledge & Understanding2. Problem Solving3. Communication & Interpretation4. Technology5. Reasoning6. Inquiry Approaches |
| HL |
Number & Algebra – 39 hrs• Functions – 32 hrs• Geometry & Trig – 51 hrs• Probability & Stats – 33 hrs• Calculus – 55 hrs• Toolkit/Exploration – 30 hrs |
Paper 1 – No calculatorPaper 2 – Calculator allowedPaper 3 – Extended problem-solving (HL only) |
Same as SL: Mathematical Exploration |
Same 6 objectives as SL, but HL emphasizes proof, extended reasoning, and complex inquiry |
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Sample IAs
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What is the trajectory that minimizes the radiation received by a spacecraft performing a flyby around a star? | Mathematics AA HL's Sample Internal Assessment | Nail IB®
Optimization of soft-beverage bottle such that it occupies maximum volume but incurs minimum manufacturing cost. | Mathematics AA HL's Sample Internal Assessment | Nail IB®
What is the optimal relationship between radius and height that minimizes the surface area of cylinders and cones while keeping a fixed volume? | Mathematics AA SL's Sample Internal Assessment | Nail IB®
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IBlieve Resources
https://iblieve.org/revision-techniques-for-math-aa-sl/
https://iblieve.org/the-difference-maths-aa-vs-maths-ai/
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