• Mathematics

    The study of mathematics is a fundamental part of a balanced education. It promotes a powerful universal language, analytical reasoning and problem-solving skills that contribute to the development of logical, abstract and critical thinking. Mathematics can help make sense of the world and allows phenomena to be described in precise terms. It also promotes careful analysis and the search for patterns and relationships, skills necessary for success both inside and outside of the classroom.

    Studying mathematics, however, should be more than simply learning formulae or rules. Students should not have the impression that all of the answers to mathematics can be found in a book but, rather that they can be active participants in the search for concepts and relationships. In that light, mathematics at JL Long becomes a subject that is alive with the thrill of exploration and the rewards of discovery. At the same time, that new knowledge may then be applied to other situations, opening up even more doors for our students. MYP mathematics promotes both inquiry and application, helping students to develop problem-solving techniques that transcend the discipline and that are useful in the world outside of school.

    The aims of MYP mathematics are to encourage and enable students to:  

    • enjoy mathematics, develop curiosity and begin to appreciate its elegance and power
    • develop an understanding of the principles and nature of mathematics
    • communicate clearly and confidently in a variety of contexts
    • develop logical, critical and creative thinking
    • develop confidence, perseverance, and independence in mathematical thinking and problem-solving
    • develop powers of generalization and abstraction
    • apply and transfer skills to a wide range of real-life situations, other areas of knowledge and future develops
    • appreciate how developments in technology and mathematics have influenced each other
    • appreciate the moral, social and ethical implications arising from the work of mathematicians and the applications of mathematics
    • appreciate the international dimension in mathematics through an awareness of the universality of mathematics and its multicultural and historical perspectives
    • appreciate the contribution of mathematics to other areas of knowledge
    • develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to pursue further studies in mathematics
    • develop the ability to reflect critically upon their own work and the work of others.