Comparison between Math AA vs Math AI in The International Baccalaureate (IB) Mathematics

Confused About IB Math AA & IB Math AI?
Crucial differences between IB Math AA and IB Math AI. This article also talks about university and which one can help you get into your desired undergraduate programme.

You are choosing your IB subjects and you don't know the difference between Mathematics AA and AI? Are you wondering which will be a better choice for you? If so, you cannot miss this post! Below you will find all the crucial information that will help you with the decision. 

Math AA vs Math AI 

Math AA stands for Analysis and Approaches whereas Math AI means Analysis and Interpretation. Choosing the right course is very important, as it can be influential on your higher education. There are many elements common to both subjects although the approaches and extent of solving them might be different. The five common core topics are:

• number and algebra
• functions
• geometry and trigonometry 
• probability and statistics 
• calculus

Math AA

Analysis and Approaches is ideal for students who really like applying mathematics to create mathematical arguments and improve their mathematical thinking. They will be interested in investigating both practical and theoretical applications of these concepts, using technology when needed. Those who choose Math AA will be the ones who find solving mathematical problems and exploring generalizations exciting. 

Who is it for? 

• SL - moderate mathematics students, who plan on choosing a mathematics-based course at university (comfortable in the manipulation of algebraic expressions, enjoy the recognition of patterns, and understand their mathematical generalization) 
• HL - very good mathematics students, who plan on choosing a mathematics-focused course at university (have strong algebraic skills and the ability to understand the simple proof. They will be students who enjoy spending time with challenging problems and get pleasure and satisfaction from solving them) 
• In general, it is recommended for students who want to study Mathematics, Economics, Physics, Engineering, etc. To be sure, check the requirements of your potential university and the specific course that you would like to pursue!

Check out our free Maths IA exemplars

View all exemplars on Clastify

Math AI 

The Analysis and Interpretation approach recognizes the growing importance of mathematics and technology across various fields in the current data-rich world. It stresses the importance of mathematics in real-world contexts by focusing on topics frequently used in applications and mathematical modeling. To provide a solid foundation, the course also covers traditional pre-university mathematics subjects such as calculus and statistics. The course heavily involves technology, allowing students to explore and build mathematical models. Math AI will enhance mathematical thinking, often within the framework of practical problems, using technology to support and validate hypotheses.

Who is it for? 

• SL - students who are not strong at mathematics and do not associate their future career path with it (should enjoy seeing mathematics used in real-world contexts and to solve real-world problems)

• HL - moderate students who like mathematics but do not plan on choosing a mathematics-based course at university (will have good algebraic skills and experience in solving real-world problems. They will be students who get pleasure and satisfaction when exploring challenging problems and who are comfortable to undertake this exploration using technology)

• It is recommended for students who want to study Social Sciences, Languages, Arts and other non-math related courses. 

Difficulty levels and assessment 

As was already mentioned, Math AA covering more advanced theoretical concepts is considered to be more academically demanding. Math AI puts more focus on the practical aspects of the course and the application of technology. 

As in other subjects, mathematics is both internally and externally assessed. In the IA there are no direct differences in the mark scheme however it's the syllabus that sets the required level of difficulty of the work. According to it, AI and AA students are expected to use different mathematical concepts and knowledge gained throughout the course. If you are interested, we highly recommend taking a look at Math internal assessment exemplars available on Clastify. This way you will be able to see the differences between the courses and see which approach seems more interesting to you. 

When it comes to the external assessment, students write 3 papers in the exam session with different exercises and levels of difficulty. AI students are allowed to use graphic calculators on all papers, whereas it is prohibited in Paper 1 of the AA assessment. 

Syllabus differences 

While there are some similarities between Math AA and AI, there are more that differ the two. Each course is designed for different learning styles and goals. Here’s what you need to know:

• Maths AA:
  • More focus on Number & Algebra, Geometry & Trigonometry, and Calculus.

• Maths AI:
  • More focus on Functions and Statistics & Probability.

Teaching Hours:

In summary:

• Maths AA: Emphasizes Number & Algebra, Geometry & Trigonometry, and Calculus.
• Maths AI: Emphasizes Functions and Statistics & Probability.

Course Focus

• Maths AA:
  • Develops mathematical concepts rigorously.
  • Solves both abstract and real-world problems.
  • Focuses on constructing and communicating mathematical arguments.
  • Gives insights into mathematical form and structure.

• Maths AI:
  • Focuses on practical applications and modeling.
  • Includes calculus and statistics but also emphasizes technology.
  • Encourages solving real-world problems and interpreting results.

Assessment Differences

• Maths AA:
  • Paper 1: No calculator allowed.
  • Paper 2 and HL Paper 3: Calculators allowed.
  • Paper 1 and Paper 2: Both have short and extended response sections.

• Maths AI:
  • All papers allow calculator use.
  • Paper 1: Short response questions only.
  • Paper 2: Extended response questions only.
  • HL Paper 3: Extended response problem-solving questions (same format as AA but different questions).

Quick summary

• Maths AA: Analytical, focuses on calculus and geometry/trigonometry, one paper without a calculator.

• Maths AI: Application-based, focuses on functions and probability/statistics, calculators required for all papers.

Both courses share some core topics (number & algebra, functions, geometry & trigonometry, probability & statistics, and calculus), but they approach them differently.

Math AA:

• Ideal for: Students who enjoy mathematical reasoning, creating arguments, and exploring both theoretical and practical applications. Think of it as the path for those who find solving challenging problems exciting.
• Student Profile:
  • SL: Comfortable with algebraic manipulation, recognizing patterns, and understanding generalizations. Planning a math-related university course.
  • HL: Strong algebraic skills, able to understand simple proofs, enjoys challenging problems. Planning a math-focused university course.
• Career Paths: Recommended for future mathematicians, economists, physicists, engineers, etc. Always check university requirements!

Math AI:

• Ideal for: Students who appreciate math's real-world relevance, particularly in our data-driven world. It emphasizes practical applications, modeling, and uses technology extensively. It still covers calculus and statistics, but with a focus on their use in real-world contexts.
• Student Profile:
  • SL: Not necessarily strong at math, but interested in its real-world applications.
  • HL: Moderately good at math, enjoys problem-solving with technology, but not planning a math-based university degree.
• Career Paths: Recommended for students interested in social sciences, languages, arts, and other non-math related fields.

Difficulty & Assessment:

AA is generally considered more academically demanding due to its focus on theoretical concepts. AI emphasizes practical applications and technology.

• Internal Assessment (IA): While the marking schemes are similar, the syllabus dictates different levels of difficulty and the specific math concepts used. (Check out IA examples on Clastify for a clearer picture.)
• External Assessment:
  • AA: Three papers. Paper 1: No calculator. Papers 2 & 3: Calculator allowed.
  • AI: Three papers. Calculator allowed on all papers.

Syllabus Differences:

• AA: More emphasis on Number & Algebra, Geometry & Trigonometry, and Calculus.
• AI: More emphasis on Functions and Statistics & Probability.

In short:

• Math AA: Analytical, focuses on calculus and geometry/trigonometry, one no-calculator paper.
• Math AI: Application-based, focuses on functions and probability/statistics, calculators allowed on all papers.