Criterion E: Use of mathematics HL
The “Use of mathematics” HL criterion assesses to what extent students use relevant mathematics in the exploration.
Students are expected to produce work that is commensurate with the level of the course, which means it should not be completely based on mathematics listed in the prior learning. The mathematics explored should either be part of the syllabus, at a similar level or slightly beyond. However, mathematics of a level slightly beyond the syllabus is not required to achieve the highest levels.
A key word in the descriptor is demonstrated. The command term demonstrate means to make clear by reasoning or evidence, illustrating with examples or practical application. Obtaining the correct answer is not sufficient to demonstrate understanding (even some understanding) in order to achieve level 2 or higher. *For knowledge and understanding to be thorough it must be demonstrated throughout. Lines of reasoning must be shown to justify steps in the mathematical development of the exploration.
Relevant refers to mathematics that supports the development of the exploration towards the completion of its aim. Overly complicated mathematics where simple mathematics would suffice is not relevant.
The mathematics can be regarded as correct even if there are occasional minor errors as long as they do not detract from the flow of the mathematics or lead to an unreasonable outcome. Precise mathematics is error-free and uses an appropriate level of accuracy at all times.
Sophistication: To be considered as sophisticated the mathematics used should be commensurate with the HL syllabus or, if contained in the SL syllabus, the mathematics has been used in a complex way that is beyond what could reasonably be expected of an SL student. Sophistication in mathematics may include understanding and using challenging mathematical concepts, looking at a problem from different perspectives and seeing underlying structures to link different areas of mathematics.
Rigour involves clarity of logic and language when making mathematical arguments and calculations. Mathematical claims relevant to the development of the exploration must be justified or proven. Students are encouraged to use technology to obtain results where appropriate, but understanding must be demonstrated in order for the student to achieve level 1 or higher, for example merely substituting values into a formula does not necessarily demonstrate understanding of the results.
Mathematics only needs to be what is required to support the development of the exploration. This could be a few small elements of mathematics or even a single topic (or sub-topic) from the syllabus. It is better to do a few things well than a lot of things not so well. If the mathematics used is relevant to the topic being explored, commensurate with the level of the course, and understood by the student, then it can achieve a 5/6