Core Topics SL-Textbook

Mathematics: Core topics SL has been written for the IB Diploma Programme courses Mathematics: analysis and approaches SL, and Mathematics: applications and interpretation SL, for first teaching in August 2019, and first assessment in May 2021.

The book contains the content that is common to both courses. This material can all be taught first, giving the potential to teach all the SL students together from this book at the start of the course.

A set of background knowledge chapters is accessible online for those who want to ensure that they have the prerequisite levels of understanding for the courses.

The material is presented in a clear, easy-to-follow style, free from unnecessary distractions, while effort has been made to contextualise questions so that students can relate concepts to everyday use.

Each chapter begins with an Opening Problem, offering an insight into the application of the mathematics that will be studied in the chapter. Important information and key notes are highlighted, while worked examples provide step-by-step instructions with concise and relevant explanations. Discussions, Activities, Investigations, and Research exercises are used throughout the chapters to develop understanding, problem solving, and reasoning.

Discussion topics for Theory of Knowledge are included throughout the book. There is also guidance on writing the Mathematical Exploration, as well as examples of Mathematical Explorations accessible online.

This is the first of two books students will require for the completion of their SL Mathematics course. Upon the completion of this book, students progress to the particular SL textbook for their course: either Mathematics: analysis and approaches SL, or Mathematics: applications and interpretation SL. This is expected to occur approximately 6-7 months into the two-year course.