Should I choose Maths Studies or Mathematics SL at IB?

First and foremost, both options are Standard Level and are classed as the same standard of education by the IB. They are just different subjects, and you are not ‘moving down’ to Maths Studies if this is what you choose. There is more pure maths within Standard Level than within Maths Studies, which tends to focus more on how mathematical techniques are applied in real life situations and on interpreting the results. Before deciding on which maths option to take for the IB, there are two main questions that you need to ask yourself.

What do I want to do next?

If the answer to this is something very technical and involves lots of maths, then you have probably already realised that Higher Maths or even Further Maths is for you. However, if you did OK at GCSE and you quite like the subject but you’re probably not going to have a career which applies maths on a regular basis, then you will be wondering whether to choose Maths Studies or Maths Standard. The answer to this is to look at the university courses you would like to take.  University courses will specify whether you need Mathematics SL in their qualifying criteria, and if this is the case, then your decision is made for you.

Do I like maths?

If you do not need Mathematics SL for your chosen career path, then the decision is purely down to personal preference.  If you are good at maths and enjoy puzzles, algebra and “doing maths for maths’ sake”, then you will probably enjoy Mathematics SL.  Maths Studies tends to have wordier exam questions, and you need to pick out the relevant information, do some maths with it, and then work out what the answer is telling you.  The mathematical knowledge required is not that much above GCSE level, but understanding what the question is asking you to do requires a high level of comprehension and interpretation.  If you are good at maths but struggle with written work, as is often the case if you are dyslexic, then you might find Mathematics SL easier than Maths Studies as it is more about the numbers than the words. Often a high achieving student who is a strong mathematician may decide upon a career path which does not require Mathematics SL.  In this case it is quite common for them to choose Maths Studies as a relatively easy option as they are quickly able to apply the mathematical techniques and interpret the results and can achieve high grades in this subject on results day.

It’s your decision

Remember that you need to choose the most appropriate maths option for you.  Don’t choose one because other people are doing it, or you think people will be disappointed or laugh at you.  Speak to your subject teachers, and with their guidance decide on the best decision for your future. Good luck!

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