Mathematics applications and interpretation are for students who are interested in developing their mathematics for describing our world and solving practical problems. They will also be interested in harnessing the power of technology alongside exploring mathematical models. Students who take Mathematics: applications and interpretation will be those who enjoy mathematics best when seen in a practical context.

This course recognizes the increasing role that mathematics and technology play in a diverse range of fields in a data-rich world. As such, it emphasizes the meaning of mathematics in context by focusing on topics that are often used as applications or in mathematical modelling. To give this understanding a firm base, this course also includes topics that are traditionally part of a pre-university mathematics course such as calculus and statistics.

The course makes extensive use of technology to allow students to explore and construct mathematical models. Mathematics: applications and interpretation will develop mathematical thinking, often in the context of a practical problem and using technology to justify conjectures.

The distinction between SL and HL

Students who choose Mathematics: applications and interpretation at SL or HL should enjoy seeing mathematics used in real-world contexts and to solve real-world problems. Students who wish to take Mathematics: applications and interpretation at a higher level will have good algebraic skills and experience of solving real-world problems. They will be students who get pleasure and satisfaction when exploring challenging problems and who are comfortable to undertake this exploration using technology.

References

• Personal notes.
• Mathematics Applications and Interpretation for the IB Diploma, Higher Level. Ibrahim Wazir, Tim Garry, Jim Nakamoto, Kevin Frederick, Stephen Lumb. (2019), Pearson Publications.
• Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation, Higher Level. S.Doering, P.Economopoulos, P.Gray, D.Harris, T.Halsey, M.Ortman, N.S.Singh, J.C.Wathall. (2019), Oxford University Press.
• Mathematics Standard Level. Cirrito F., Tobin P. (2004). Ibid Press.
• Standard Level, Mathematics 2012 Edition. Wazir I., Garry T., Ashbourne P., Barclay P., Flynn P., Frederick K., Wakeford M. (2012). Pearson Publications.
• Mathematics SL. Haese R., Haese S., Haese M., Maenpaa M., Humphries M. (2012). Haese & Harris Publications.
• Mathematics Standard Level, Course Companion. Buchanan L., Fensom J., Kemp E., Rondie P., Stevens J.  (2012), Oxford University Press.
• Mathematics Standard Level, Exam Preparation Guide. Fannon P., Kadelburg V., Woolley B., Ward S.  (2016), Cambridge University Press.
• Mathematics Higher Level, Exam Preparation Guide. Fannon P., Kadelburg V., Woolley B., Ward S.  (2014), Cambridge University Press.