What is Further Mathematics HL?

Further Mathematics Higher Level is a step further from Mathematics HL. The course began in 2014 i.e. their first assessment was held in 2014. However, the course ended in 2020. This course is usually taken by students who have a very strong background in mathematics and students who wish to pursue this in their university as a degree. The student would be required to have a high degree of competence in a range of analytical and technical skills. Studying mathematics at such a high level means the students delve into a variety of branches of mathematics in depth while appreciating their practical applications. This course is particularly for students who also wish to pursue courses in physics, engineering, or technology. While they follow this degree, they will simultaneously be satisfying the group 5 aims which include applying and transferring skills to other areas of knowledge and future developments. Some other aims are shown below:

• Communicate clearly and confidently in a variety of contexts
• Develop logical, critical and creative thinking, and patience and persistence in problem-solving
• Employ and refine their powers of abstraction and generalization
• Apply and transfer skills to alternative situations, to other areas of knowledge and to future developments
• Appreciate how developments in technology and mathematics have influenced each other
• Appreciate the moral, social and ethical implications arising from the work of mathematicians and the applications of mathematics
• Appreciate the international dimension in mathematics through an awareness of the universality of mathematics and its multicultural and historical perspectives
• Appreciate the contribution of mathematics to other disciplines, and as a particular “area of knowledge” in the TOK course.

Further mathematics allows the students to indulge themselves and appreciate the diversity of the subject. This curriculum makes sure that the student enjoys learning the subject and develops an understanding of the principles of the subject.

The curriculum consists of 6 topics:

• Topic 1: Linear Algebra
• Topic 2: Geometry
• Topic 3: Statistics and Probability
• Topic 4: Sets, Relations and Groups
• Topic 5: Calculus
• Topic 6: Discrete Mathematics

As for the assessment, students are graded based on two written papers. Paper 1 consists of short to medium-length questions. The graphical calculator is allowed for this paper. Paper 2, on the contrary, has medium to extended-length questions. The GDC is required for this paper as well. Both papers carry a 50% weightage each.

Also Read – Comparison of all Mathematics

Assessment Model: 

Having followed the further mathematics HL course, students will be ex- pected to demonstrate the following.

• Knowledge and understanding: recall, select and use their knowledge of mathematical facts, concepts and techniques in a variety of familiar and unfamiliar contexts.
• Problem-solving: recall, select and use their knowledge of mathematical skills, results and models in both real and abstract contexts to solve problems.
• Communication and interpretation: transform common realistic contexts into mathematics; comment on the context; sketch or draw mathematical diagrams, graphs or constructions both on paper and using technology; record methods, solutions and conclusions using standardized notation.
• Technology: use technology, accurately, appropriately and efficiently both to explore new ideas and to solve problems.
• Reasoning: construct mathematical arguments through use of precise statements, logical deduction and inference, and by the manipulation of mathematical expressions.
• Inquiry approaches: investigate unfamiliar situations, both abstract and real-world, involving organizing and analyzing information, making conjectures, drawing conclusions and testing their validity.

As for the difficulty between Mathematics HL and Further Mathematics, Math HL requires the student to study all the core topics plus one option. These courses are considered to be a first year university-level course. On the contrary, Further Math requires the students to study all the options in addition to the core topics. Therefore, the major difference would be in terms of the amount of concepts one has to learn but not the depth covered in each of the topics.

https://www.ibo.org/globalassets/publications/recognition/5_furthermathhl.pdf

https://www.spps.org/cms/lib/MN01910242/Centricity/Domain/853/IBFurtherMathGuide2014.pdf

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is further mathematics HL?

A: Further mathematics HL is a subject offered as part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. It is an advanced mathematics course that covers topics such as linear algebra, calculus, and differential equations in greater depth and complexity than the standard mathematics HL course.

Q2: Who can take further mathematics HL?

A: Further mathematics HL is designed for students who have a strong aptitude for mathematics and wish to pursue advanced studies in mathematics, physics, engineering, or other STEM fields at the university level. It is typically taken by students who have already completed the standard mathematics HL course.

Q3: What are the benefits of taking further mathematics HL?

A: Taking further mathematics HL can provide students with a deep understanding of advanced mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills that are highly valued by universities and employers in STEM fields. It can also prepare students for university-level courses in mathematics and other STEM subjects.

Q4: How is further mathematics HL assessed?

A: Further mathematics HL is assessed through a combination of internal assessments and externally graded exams. Students are required to complete a range of mathematical assignments and assessments throughout the course, culminating in final exams at the end of the two-year program.

Q5: Is further mathematics HL a difficult course?

A: Yes, further mathematics HL is considered to be a challenging and rigorous course that requires a high level of mathematical aptitude, dedication, and hard work. However, it can be highly rewarding for students who are interested in mathematics and STEM fields and are willing to put in the effort to succeed.