'Individual students have different needs, aspirations, interests and abilities.For this reason there are two different DP subjects in mathematics,Mathematics: analysis and approaches and Mathematics: applications and interpretation. Each course is designed to meet the needs of a particular group of students. Both courses are offered at SL and HL.' (IBO Subject Brief)
Analysis & Approaches is all about 'Pure' maths. This is a new IB syllabus, focused on core mathematical principles - algebra, functions, trigonometry and calculus, all the pillars that make Maths, well, Maths! This is the Maths strand more suited to students interested in pursuing a path in STEM, ie the sciences, engineering and much more.
As this is a new course for 2021, is it vitally important you understand both the differences between A&A and A&I and of course the changes from the old syllabi. Whilst it is certainly possible to draw upon past papers prior to the new syllabi - be sure to handle with care.
Maths A&A is one of two new branches of Maths in the IB, with first examinations in 2021, replacing the old Maths HL, Standard & Studies. Maths A&A is more naturally similar to the old Maths systems, and it is a relatively fair appraisal to suggest Maths A&A HL is simliar to the 'old' HL, whilst Maths A&A SL is quite similar to the old Maths Standard SL. There is some new, very interesting material, but with less of a focus on applied Maths (statistics, probability), so only pursue this option if you like understanding Maths from first principles, and not someone who would rather be using their calculator and spreadsheets to solve problems.
Maths A&A is a natural pathway to STEM subjects - students keen to study Physics, Chemistry, Engineering and other subjects at university. The skills you develop through this course are naturally broad, though perhaps more theoretical than the equivalen A&I course. Many universities do have a preference for A&A over A&I, particularly at HL for prestigious institutions.
Analysis & Approaches is all about 'Pure' maths. This is a new IB syllabus, focused on core mathematical principles - algebra, functions, trigonometry and calculus, all the pillars that make Maths, well, Maths! This is the Maths strand more suited to students interested in pursuing a path in STEM, ie the sciences, engineering and much more.
As this is a new course for 2021, is it vitally important you understand both the differences between A&A and A&I and of course the changes from the old syllabi. Whilst it is certainly possible to draw upon past papers prior to the new syllabi - be sure to handle with care.
Maths A&A is a natural pathway to STEM subjects - students keen to study Physics, Chemistry, Engineering and other subjects at university. The skills you develop through this course are naturally broad, though perhaps more theoretical than the equivalen A&I course. Many universities do have a preference for A&A over A&I, particularly at HL for prestigious institutions.