IB Math Subjects: What’s The Difference and Which Is For Me?

To the uninitiated, it may be surprising to learn that the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme contains not just one, but two different math subjects. In 2019, the two older math subjects – Mathematics and Maths Studies – were replaced by new syllabi, now called “Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (AA)” and “Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (AI)”.

Both subjects can be taken at the Standard Level (SL) or HL (Higher Level), with SL containing a subset of the content in the HL syllabus. Students are required to choose out of the two math courses to fulfil the IBDP subject requirements.

Why did the syllabus change?

According to the examining board IB Organisation (IBO), the two new math syllabi are entirely new courses designed to keep up with the skills and abilities prized in these evolving times. There is now more emphasis on critical thinking skills and other 21^st Century skills, including the use of technology to solve mathematical problems.

From the perspective of the assessment body, the new syllabus also aims to offer more options to students to cater to their abilities and academic goals, while hopefully addressing the low take up rate of HL Math in the IB DP.

What are the new IB DP math subjects?

Math Applications and Interpretations (AI)

The IB DP Math AI subject places the emphasis on math and its real-world applications. Topics include Statistical Analysis, Financial Mathematics, Mathematical Models, Networks and Decision Mathematics, Geometry and Trigonometry, and Calculus Applications.

Compared to AA, the AI subject has a heavier focus on statistics and probability, including the use of technology to solve maths problems. This course is suitable for those who are weaker in maths, or those who are intending to go into a humanities or arts track in their further studies, where they will need to be familiar with statistical methods in research and data modelling.

Math Analysis and Approaches (AA)

The IB DP Math AA subject dives into more theoretical and abstract math concepts,  including topics like Algebra, Functions and Equations, Calculus, Vectors, Series and Differential Equations, and Mathematical Induction and Proof.

Compared to AI, AA is usually recommended for students who are stronger in mathematics and have a passion for solving complex mathematical problems. This course is suitable for students aiming to go into STEM related fields which require in-depth understanding of mathematical concepts.

Which IB DP Math Subject should I choose?

We suggest that you keep your academic goals and future career plans into consideration when deciding on which Math subject and level to choose. For example, those who are not intending to pursue math-intensive courses will find Math AI sufficient for their needs and interests. If you are passionate about math and intend to go into a math-intensive course in university, then you will want to consider the Math AA subject.

If you have some university courses in mind, be sure to check out the course requirements for which math you need to take. Most Math subjects in uni will require a good score at HL Math AA.

This decision also goes hand in hand with your mathematics ability. Math AI is generally less intensive and suitable for those who are weaker in math. If math is your Achilles’ heel, you may want to consider SL Math AI. But if you are a pro and want to stretch your abilities, you would be a great fit for HL Math AA.

Other considerations include the rest of your IBDP subjects and how Math would fit into your subject requirements. If you are already taking many HL subjects, you may not find it necessary to spend extra hours taking HL Math, especially if maths is not your strong suit.

How difficult is IB Math?

The difficulty of IB Math AA or AI really depends on your math ability. Both courses are rigorous as they are meant to prepare students for further studies and their careers. To give a gauge of how competitive each course is, we can look at the rate of those who achieved a 7 (the highest grade) in each Math subject.

In 2021, the percentage of students who took HL Math AA and achieved 7 points was 24%. In comparison, only 17% of HL Math AI students received the top score. The mean grade for students who took HL Math AA was 5.45 points, while the mean grade for HL Math AI was 5.2 points. Although it seems like students score better in HL Math AA compared to HL Math AI, keep in mind that Math AA is generally taken by students who are more capable in maths.

Regardless, if you find yourself needing support for IB DP Math, do not hesitate to reach out to a IB tutor near you! Future Academy provides IB and IP Math tuition to help you clarify your doubts and give you feedback on your math practices.

Conclusion

If you are new to the IB, figuring out the differences between Math AA and Math AI can be confusing. Ultimately, the choice boils down to your academic and career goals, in addition to practicalities like timetabling and subject requirements.

No matter which you take in the end, know that help is always available and you can reach out to us for IB tuition if you wish to receive more study support. Our expert tutors are ready to help and guide you one step closer to your goals!