Higher Level for IB students
There are two maths based courses available as part of your IB studies. Higher level mathematics is the course for those who expect to include maths as a major component of their university studies, or career path. If that’s not your plan, take a look at our “mathematical studies” page. Mathematical studies is a standard level course aimed at those who will not be using maths in their future studies, but recognise the value of maths generally.

Higher level maths is a rigorous course covering pure maths, some statistics and probability at, as the name suggests, a high level. This is a demanding course and you will need to have achieved a high grade in maths at GCSE level if you are to consider this course. Here you will be involved with in-depth exploration of algebra, functions and equations, circular functions and trigonometry, vectors, matrices, statistics, probability and calculus.

You will make extensive use of graphic calculators during your studies, but if you don’t own one - don’t buy one just yet! We have some great mathematics software on the sixth form computer network and you will be able to use a powerful graph drawing and manipulation package called Autograph.

We all need maths, whatever we choose to do in life. But, if you’re considering a maths based career, say in the sciences or financial markets, you will need more knowledge than most and this course will make sure you’re well prepared for further studies at university, or entry into the world of work.

Assessment
In general terms, standard and higher level subjects are both studied throughout years 12 and 13. There are no examinations in Year 12 as all IB examinations take place in May of Year 13. In addition to the examinations you must complete a CAS journal, the theory of knowledge component and an extended essay. Each subject studied carries seven points and final grades are awarded according to a points system. The maximum mark is 45 points, made up of a potential seven points for each of the six subjects, plus three points that are available for the theory of knowledge and extended essay components.

Specifically in relation to higher level maths, external assessment is made of a portfolio that is developed throughout the course, and by three examinations. The portfolio project, worth 20% of the available marks, will comprise of two assignments. One is based upon mathematical investigation, similar to tasks you may have completed for GCSE coursework, but of course, the work produced here must be to a higher level of mathematical sophistication. The second unit centres on mathematical modelling. This involves using maths to describe and make predications about a real-life situation. You might, for example, aim to compare the performance of different savings schemes.

Each assignment should take about four hours to complete and you may work on more than one of each type so that you can select your best work for inclusion in your portfolio.

Of the three examinations the first, worth 30% of the available marks, consists of twenty compulsory short response questions. The second examination, also worth 30% of the final marks, consists of five lengthy compulsory questions and the final paper, worth 20% of marks, involves a small number of lengthy questions on probability and statistics.

Internal tests will be set regularly throughout the course to encourage you to revise as you go. This will provide you with valuable feedback on your progress. While the externally assessed exams happen in Year 13, there will be extensive, internally assessed exams at the end of Year 12.

Beyond the sixth form
A sound knowledge and understanding of mathematics is invaluable whatever you wish to do next. Further education and employment will both demand a practical and rounded mathematical ability and that’s just what this course will give you.