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IB Middle Years

IB MYP

IB MYP Mathematics is assessed against four criteria rather than one final exam, building the inquiry and algebraic skills that feed directly into the Diploma.

Difficulty

Moderate

Format

Criterion-based internal assessment across Years 1–5 (no single external final exam); Standard or Extended pathway chosen in Years 4–5

Duration

Continuous assessment throughout the school year

Syllabus

What IB MYP covers

Number

  • Integers, fractions, decimals and standard form
  • Ratio and percentage
  • Indices, including fractional and negative exponents (Extended)
  • Estimation and rounding

Algebra

  • Expressions, equations and inequalities
  • Sequences and formulae
  • Simultaneous equations
  • Graphing linear and quadratic functions

Geometry and Trigonometry

  • 2D and 3D shape properties and angle rules
  • Pythagoras' theorem and coordinate geometry
  • Transformations
  • Basic trig ratios, extending to circle theorems and vectors (Extended)

Statistics and Probability

  • Data collection and representation
  • Measures of central tendency and spread
  • Single and combined probability (Venn and tree diagrams)
  • Scatter graphs and correlation

Exam Pattern

How IB MYP is assessed

Criterion A — Knowing and Understanding

out of 8

Selecting and applying correct mathematics to solve problems in familiar and unfamiliar contexts.

Criterion B — Investigating Patterns

out of 8

Applying techniques to recognize patterns and justify or verify generalizations.

Criterion C — Communicating

out of 8

Using correct mathematical notation, language and representation in reasoning and results.

Criterion D — Applying in Real-Life Contexts

out of 8

Identifying real-world problems, applying suitable maths, and justifying accuracy and conclusions.

Required Materials

What you'll need

Oxford or Haese MYP Mathematics

The two most widely used MYP textbook series, published in matched Standard and Extended editions per year.

Scientific calculator

A four-function or scientific calculator (e.g. Casio fx-83GTX) covers most years; a graphing calculator is often introduced in Extended Year 5 as DP preparation.

IB criteria rubrics

The official IB command-term and achievement-level descriptors for each of the four criteria, published on ibo.org.

Try It Yourself

Sample questions, solved step by step

Scroll into view to watch each solution build itself, one step at a time, exactly how our tutors walk students through it.

1

Sample question

A sequence of square-shaped dot patterns is given: Pattern 1 has 1 dot, Pattern 2 has 4 dots, Pattern 3 has 9 dots. Find a general rule for the number of dots in Pattern n, and use it to predict Pattern 6.

Animated solution

1

List the pattern

1, 4, 9, ... — each value is a perfect square (1², 2², 3²)

2

Generalize

The number of dots in Pattern n follows dots(n) = n²

3

Verify against a known term

Pattern 3 → 3² = 9 ✓

4

Predict Pattern 6

dots(6) = 6² = 36

Answer: 36 dots

2

Sample question

A school has 60 m of fencing to enclose a rectangular garden against a wall, using the fencing on the other three sides. Find the dimensions that maximize the enclosed area.

Animated solution

1

Define variables

Let x = length of each of the two sides perpendicular to the wall; y = the side parallel to the wall

2

Write the fencing constraint

2x + y = 60, so y = 60 − 2x

3

Write the area function and complete the square

A(x) = x(60 − 2x) = 60x − 2x² = −2(x − 15)² + 450

4

Read off the maximum

The vertex form shows the maximum occurs at x = 15, giving A = 450

Answer: Width 15 m, length 30 m, maximum area 450 m²

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