IB Math AA Paper 1: How to get a 7 on your paper 2
What is IB Math
Have you been struggling to get that high 7 in your IB Math class?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Mathematics course is designed for students aged 16-19 to develop a deeper understanding of concepts and principles in Mathematics. The course is split into two different Mathematics: Analysis or Approaches (AA) and Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (AI). Math AA is considered to be the course that focuses more on analytical and abstract concepts such as trigonometry, calculus, and geometry.
Today we will take a deeper dive into paper 2 and how you can get a 7 on the exam.
Understanding the marking criteria
The marking criteria for Paper 2 is split over all 5 of the major IB Math AA topics:
- Number and algebra
- Functions
- Geometry and trigonometry
- Statistics and probability
- Calculus
However, do not be alarmed as the expectations for paper 2 regarding how you are assessed are nearly identical to paper 1: section A with 6 short response questions and section B with 3 longer response questions.
For more detailed information on the different sections and their requirements, check out our page on all things related to achieving a 7 on your paper 1.
Becoming comfortable with your calculator
The primary difference between paper 1 and paper 2 is the use of your calculator. For paper 1 our main advice is to become familiar with your formula booklet. Although you will still get a formula booklet for paper 2, and you should be familiar with all of the formulae on it, the main priority here is understanding how to use your graphic display calculator, also known as a GDC.
Prior to your exam, make sure to charge your calculator fully and bring your charger or extra batteries with you just in case. Make sure it is working fully and there are no issues with it. The last thing you need on the day of your exam is your calculator malfunctioning so eliminate that possibility by triple checking it before you go in.
Managing your time
Your paper 2 accounts for 40% of your grade for SL and 30% for HL, so you want to make sure you are prioritizing it as a form of assessment. Managing your time is not only important during the exam, but also prior to your exam.
In the exam, you want to make sure you are giving more time to the more challenging questions, such as in section B, as well as questions 3-6 in section A. Make sure that while you are going through all of the problems you show all of your work. Even though you may not be able to reach the correct answer, taking the time to neatly show your problem-solving will give you some marks towards the 7.
Practicing
The key to acing your paper 2 is to be comfortable with the style of questions and the correct answers and the only way to do this is through practice. The IB as well as many other resources offer past paper 2’s online for you to practice. They will also provide a mark scheme alongside them. Make sure you take time to practice and compare your answers to the mark scheme so that you can get all the points possible.
If you are looking for more past papers prior to 2021, look for Math IB SL, which is the curriculum that aligns closest to Math IB AA SL and for Math IB AA HL look for Math IB HL past papers.
Lastly, practicing with your calculator is not always something you may do in class, so familiarising yourself with it will help you get a 7 on the exam.
Bonus: Paper 3 HL
Although both papers 1 and 2, the structure is the same for both HL and SL, the main difference is that as an HL student, you will have an extra paper: paper 3.
Paper 3 is marked out of 55 points and involves two questions, one worth 27 points and one worth 28 points. The question will be subdivided into smaller sections so you can tackle each part carefully. It is only 1 hour and 20% of your grade so make sure you practice paper 3 style questions prior to the exam.
All of our tips regarding paper 2 will help you succeed in your paper 3!
Conclusion
We know that math exams can be daunting, however, time and practice can help you achieve that 7 in your paper 2!
At Aegis Advisors, we specialize in guiding students through the intricate world of IB Math, offering personalized tutoring designed to help you excel. Contact us to help you thrive in all things IB Math!