Math AA and AI - Different? 🤔


Since the new syllabus in 2019, Mathematics is divided into Analysis and Approaches (AA), and Applications and Interpretation (AI). Although it provide students to have more flexibility in choosing what to learn in Mathematics, it may be confusing to some of us to pick between the two. 


Mathematics subject breakdown
Mathematics Subject Breakdown
Both Math AA and AI cover 5 topics, 
but focus in each area variously:
  1. Number and Algebra

  2. Functions

  3. Geometry and Trigonometry

  4. Statistics and Probability

  5. Calculus




Math Analysis and Approaches (AA)

In Math AA, students focus to study deeper abstract and theoretical understanding of mathematical concepts. Students enjoying to develop strong skills in mathematical thinking and to be fluent in the construction of mathematical arguments might be more interested in taking this course. In comparison to the previous syllabus, Math AA HL will be similar to the previous Math HL, while Math AA SL will be similar to the previous Math SL. 

  • Emphasis on algebraic methods
  • Develop strong skills in mathematical thinking
  • Real and abstract mathematical problem solving
  • For students interested in mathematics, engineering physical sciences, and some economics

In the exam, one of the paper in both HL and SL will be non-calculator. 

Math Applications and Interpretation

Math AI is focusing more on applying mathematics to practical context. It is for students who are interested in developing mathematics to describe the world, modelling, and solving practical problems using technology. Math AI SL will be similar to the previous Maths Studies, while Math AA HL is new.

  • Emphasis on modelling and statistics
  • Develops strong skills in applying mathematics to the real-world
  • Real mathematical problem solving using technology
  • For students interested in social sciences, natural sciences, medicine, statistics, business, engineering, some economics, psychology and design

In all of the exam papers, the used of technology/calculator is allowed.


Which to Choose? 

Considering your interest and deciding which career path you will have in the future is very helpful to choose which math is the most suitable for you. 

    - AA SL : Students who are moderate in math and intend to study economics or sciences after high school
    - AA HL : Students who are strong in math and intend to pursue math-based subjects (ex: math, engineering) after high school
    - AI SL : Students who are not strong in math and do not intend to study math-based subjects after high school
    - AI HL : Students who are strong in math but do not intend to study math-based subjects after high school

For those planning to take degrees that really need math (ex: physics, engineering, pure math), Math AA might be the ideal choice. Math AA HL or SL can be chosen if you intend to take moderately-linked course (ex: economics, sciences). Those who wants to take courses that do not require any specific math requirements (ex: law, arts, languages, or social sciences) may want to take Math AI SL.

But.. Be sure to check the university requirements you are planning to apply

Math is quite a challenging subject, so whatever math courses you will take do study hard. Personally, taking AA HL as my math is not very easy, but it is still possible to understand if you put more effort in it. Taking HL in any subjects, of course will require more efforts than SL, studying from various sources, such as YouTube or the internet can be very useful.


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