What AA HL is about

AA HL is the “pure maths” route of IB: algebraic methods, proofs, functions, advanced trigonometry, statistics/probability with rigor, and a strong emphasis on calculus. All five topic areas are compulsory and taught to HL depth across approximately 240 teaching hours (Number & Algebra, Functions, Geometry & Trigonometry, Statistics & Probability, Calculus). 

How you’re assessed (80% exams, 20% coursework)

Paper 1 (HL) – 2 hours, 30%
No calculator. Section A (short response) + Section B (extended response). Paper is 110 marks (≈55 in each section). Show full working—marks reward method and reasoning, not just answers. 

Paper 2 (HL) – 2 hours, 30%
Calculator required (GDC). Same A/B structure as Paper 1, 110 marks total. Not every question needs GDC; still show working. 

Paper 3 (HL) – 1 hour, 20%
Calculator required. Two extended, problem-solving questions; 55 marks total. These develop a single theme and ramp up in difficulty. 

Formula booklet – You’ll have a clean copy in all exams. Learn where things live. 

Marking philosophy – Method, accuracy, answers and reasoning are all credited. Always show your working. 

Internal Assessment (IA) – Mathematical Exploration (20%)
A personal, written investigation (20 marks) where you explore any suitable maths question/idea. It’s internally assessed and externally moderated. 

IA criteria (what markers look for):

• Communication (structure, clarity)

• Mathematical presentation (definitions, notation, diagrams)

• Personal engagement (your voice/initiative)

• Reflection (insight, checking, limitations)

• Use of mathematics (level, correctness, relevance) 

Smart strategy to tackle AA HL

1) Build rock-solid foundations (Term 1 focus)

• Number & Algebra → Functions → Trig & Geometry in that order; it unlocks Calculus later.

• For every skill: learn the rule → drill basics (no calculator) → mix with worded contexts → write a one-page “how-to” sheet.

• On Paper 1 topics, practise without a calculator from day one (mirror exam conditions). 

2) Train for each paper’s style

• Paper 1 (no GDC): practise algebraic manipulation, proofs/justification, exact values. Time target ≈ 1.1 min/mark (120 min / 110 marks). Keep steps neat; earn method marks even if you slip. 

• Paper 2 (with GDC): learn your calculator’s graphing, tables, solver, stats, and regression features—but write the maths, not just button presses. Same ≈ 1.1 min/mark. 

• Paper 3 (problem solving): do weekly mini-investigations: set up variables, model, test cases, generalize, and explain. Pace ≈ 1.1 min/mark (60 min / 55 marks). 

3) Calculator mastery (for P2 & P3)

• Know how to: plot & trace graphs, solve equations/inequalities, compute stats (1-var, 2-var, regression), numerical integrals/derivatives, matrices (if used by your teacher). Not every part needs the GDC—decide fast when it helps. 

4) Work the formula booklet

• Tag sections you use most (trig identities, series, derivatives/integrals, distributions). In practice, retrieve rather than memorize some results—speed comes from knowing where things are. 

5) IA game plan (8–10 weeks total)

1. Pick a question you’re curious about (music & Fourier? optimal game strategies? calculus in kinematics?).

2. Plan: define aim, brief background, methods/tools you’ll use.

3. Do the maths: correct, at HL level, and relevant to your aim.

4. Reflect: validate, discuss errors/assumptions, alternative methods, what you learned.

5. Polish: clear structure, consistent notation, labelled diagrams. Map sections to the IA criteria above. 

6) Weekly rhythm that works

• 3 content sessions (skills + mixed problems)

• 1 Paper-style session (alternate P1/P2; every other week add a short P3 task)

• 1 review session (error log → fix misconceptions; flashcards for definitions/theorems)

• IA slot during Term 2/3 until a clean final draft is done.

7) Common pitfalls & fixes

• Over-relying on GDC → practise exact algebra & proofs for P1. 

• Not showing enough working → write steps, reasoning, and units; the markscheme rewards method. 

• Poor time management → move on when stuck; come back later. Use the ≈1.1 min/mark rule.

• IA that’s descriptive, not mathematical → tighten the aim and raise the level of maths used; reflect critically. 

How I’ll help you?

• Diagnostic start to find your gaps, then a personalized plan by topic and paper.

• Exam-style drills with live timing, annotation, and markscheme analysis so you learn how marks are awarded. 

• Calculator coaching (graphing, regression, solvers) specifically for P2 & P3 workflows. 

• IA mentoring end-to-end: choosing a strong idea, structuring for the five criteria, and polishing communication/presentation. 

• Formula-booklet fluency sessions so you can retrieve results instantly in exams. 

Quick exam-day checklist

• Clean formula booklet & approved GDC (with fresh batteries) for P2/P3. 

• Labelled diagrams, clear notation, and working shown for every part. 

• Pace yourself with the marks-per-minute rule.