Mathematics can be seen as a well-defined body of knowledge, as an abstract system of ideas, or as a useful tool. For many people it is probably a combination of these, but there is no doubt that mathematical knowledge provides an important key to understanding the world in which we live.
Mathematics can enter our lives in a number of ways: we buy produce in the market, consult a timetable, read a newspaper, time a process or estimate a length. Mathematics, for most of us, also extends into our chosen profession: visual artists need to learn about perspective; musicians need to appreciate the mathematical relationships within and between different rhythms; economists need to recognise trends in financial dealings; and engineers need to take account of stress patterns in physical materials. Scientists view mathematics as a language that is central to our understanding of events that occur in the natural world. Some people enjoy the challenges offered by the logical methods of mathematics and the adventure in reason that mathematical proof has to offer. Others appreciate mathematics as an aesthetic experience or even as a cornerstone of philosophy.
This prevalence of mathematics in our lives, with all its interdisciplinary connections, provides a clear and sufficient rationale for making the study of this subject compulsory for all students.
Choosing the right course
There are two mathematics courses on offer in the Sixth Form one – Applications and Interpretations at both Higher and at Standard Level. Sometimes students find it difficult to choose the right course for them. The guidance below is based on our experience of teaching the IB for over 10 years at Tonbridge Grammar School. If you are not sure, talk to our Mathematics Team.
Sometimes students find it difficult to choose the right course for them. The guidance below is based on our experience of teaching the IB for over 10 years at Tonbridge Grammar School. If you are not sure, talk to our Mathematics Team.
