Is Further Mathematics HL Still Offered in the IB Program?

According to the latest updates available as of August 2023, the International Baccalaureate (IB) program still offers Further Mathematics at the Higher Level (HL). However, the program is undergoing a curriculum review, and there are ongoing discussions about potential changes to the Mathematics offerings.

Current Offerings

As of now, the IB program includes the following mathematics courses:

Mathematical Studies SL: Designed for students who have not previously studied mathematics extensively. It is similar to the current Mathematical Studies SL course. Mathematics SL: This course is intended for students with a good background in mathematics. It is similar to the current Mathematics SL course. Mathematics HL: This course is designed for students with a strong background in mathematics and who enjoy the subject. It includes new content such as statistics, making it more challenging. This course is similar to the current Mathematics HL course. Further Mathematics HL: Students who are passionate about mathematics and have a strong aptitude for the subject continue to have the option to study Further Mathematics HL, which involves a deeper and more detailed study of mathematics.

Potential Changes

The IB program reviews its curriculum every five years to ensure that it remains relevant and up-to-date. The most recent changes were implemented in 2019, and new courses have been introduced, while some existing courses have been modified. One of the significant changes is the elimination of Math Studies HL, and the creation of new courses under the categories of Analysis and Approaches and Applications and Interpretation.

New Courses Overview

The new courses are designed to cater to a broader range of students with varying interests and abilities in mathematics. Here’s a brief overview of the new offerings:

Mathematics SL (Analysis and Approaches): This course is intended for students who enjoy the logical and abstract nature of mathematics. It is similar to the current Mathematics SL course but with a more in-depth and detailed curriculum. Mathematics HL (Analysis and Approaches): This course is for students with a solid background in mathematics and a passion for the subject. It includes new content such as statistics and offers a more challenging curriculum. This course is similar to the current Mathematics HL course. Mathematics SL (Applications and Interpretation): This course is designed for students who enjoy describing the real world and solving practical problems using mathematics. It is similar to the current Mathematical Studies SL course. Mathematics HL (Applications and Interpretation): This course is for students who would like to pursue subjects with a substantial mathematics component at higher education and beyond. It includes new content such as statistics and offers a more challenging curriculum.

According to a statement from my teacher, who is also an IB examiner, the IB is considering deleting the Further Mathematics HL subject in the next new syllabus. Therefore, it is possible that the IB might discontinue it.

Mathematics in the DP - A Detailed Look

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program (DP) requires students to study at least one course in mathematics, though computer science is an elective option. Four courses in mathematics are available:

Mathematical Studies SL: This course is designed for students who have not previously studied mathematics extensively. It focuses on real-life applications of mathematics. Mathematics SL: This course is intended for students with a good background in mathematics. It covers a wide range of topics, including algebra, geometry, and calculus. Mathematics HL: This course is designed for students who have a strong background in mathematics and who enjoy the subject. It offers challenges in both theory and applications, with an emphasis on problem-solving skills. Further Mathematics HL: This course is for students who are passionate about mathematics and have a strong aptitude for the subject. It provides a deeper and more detailed study of mathematics, including advanced topics such as linear algebra and complex numbers.

Conclusion

While the IB program still offers Further Mathematics HL as of August 2023, the curriculum is continually evolving, and there has been discussion about potential changes. For the most up-to-date and accurate information, it is best to check the official IB website or to contact an IB school directly.