IB MYP Mathematics Curriculum & Assessment Guide (Years 1 – 5)
Topics, Criteria, Skills & Preparation Strategies for Parents and Students.
Mathematics in the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) develops logical thinking, problem-solving, and conceptual understanding through real-world contexts.
Students progress from basic numeracy to advanced algebraic, geometric, and statistical reasoning over five years.
Structure of MYP Mathematics
- Years 1–3 (Foundation Phase): Building numeracy and pattern awareness.
- Years 4–5 (Extended Phase): Deep algebraic and functional reasoning, modelling, and pre-DP mathematics.
Assessment Criteria (A – D)
- A: Knowing and Understanding
- B: Investigating Patterns
- C: Communicating
- D: Applying Mathematics in Real-Life Contexts
Each criterion is assessed out of 8 points per year, total 32 → converted to a final grade (1–7).
Criterion A – Knowing & Understanding
Mastering concepts, selecting and applying appropriate mathematical methods
| Year | Key Topics / Concepts | What Students Should Demonstrate | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| MYP Year 1 / Year 7 / Grade 6 | Whole numbers & place value, basic operations, fractions, decimals, simple geometry | Apply basic operations accurately; understand shapes and space | Practise daily mental maths; use manipulatives (fractions, blocks) |
| MYP Year 2 / Year 8 / Grade 7 | Integers, ratios, percentages, perimeter & area, angles, coordinate geometry | Explain steps in multi-stage calculations; draw accurate diagrams | Solve mixed operation problems and measure real objects |
| MYP Year 3 / Year 9 / Grade 8 | Algebraic expressions, simple equations, probability, data graphs | Transfer skills between number, algebra, and statistics | Use online tools or graphing apps to visualise data |
| MYP Year 4 / Year 10 / Grade 9 | Linear equations & graphs, Pythagoras, basic trigonometry, statistics | Select and justify methods to solve new problems | Work with IB question verbs (solve, show that, evaluate) |
| MYP Year 5 / Year 11 / Grade 10 | Quadratic functions, simultaneous equations, trigonometric applications, standard deviation, vectors | Use abstract reasoning and mathematical proof; evaluate solutions | Revise using IB-style mark schemes and explain solutions verbally |
Criterion B – Investigating Patterns
Exploring relationships, generalising rules, and formulating conjectures
| Year | Typical Focus | Learning Evidence | Preparation Approach |
|---|---|---|---|
| MYP Year 1 / Year 7 / Grade 6 | Number patterns, multiples, simple sequences | Identify pattern and describe verbally | Use pattern games (“guess the rule”) |
| MYP Year 2 / Year 8 / Grade 7 | Geometric patterns, shape symmetry, simple tables | Extend pattern and represent with symbols | Encourage students to draw and colour-code steps |
| MYP Year 3 / Year 9 / Grade | Algebraic rules from patterns, tables of values | Write general rule using variables | Introduce spreadsheet or Desmos modelling |
| MYP Year 4 / Year 10 / Grade 9 | Functional relationships (linear, quadratic) | Graph and test rules, verify accuracy | Discuss real-life patterns (speed-time, growth) |
| MYP Year 5 / Year 11 / Grade 10 | Non-linear relations, sequences with proofs | Use technology to model and justify findings | Practise inductive → deductive reasoning and proof writing |
Criterion C – Communicating
| Year | Communication Goals | Examples of Evidence | Parent/Teacher Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| MYP Year 1 / Year 7 / Grade 6 | Use symbols + words to explain solutions | Simple written steps, labeled diagrams | Ask child to “teach back” a problem |
| MYP Year 2 / Year 8 / Grade 7 | Organise working logically with clear presentation | Structured solutions, annotated graphs | Encourage maths journaling or reflection sentences |
| MYP Year 3 / Year 9 / Grade 8 | Use mathematical language and units correctly | Consistent notation, units, labels | Use rubrics to self-check clarity |
| MYP Year 4 / Year 10 / Grade 9 | Construct multi-step arguments and justify reasoning | Proof-style paragraphs, graphical representations | Peer review work for logical flow |
| MYP Year 5 / Year 11 / Grade 10 | Present full solutions with logical structure, graphs, and technology | Professional-looking reports with formulae and citations | Encourage LaTeX/Word Equation editor use for DP readiness |
Criterion D – Applying Mathematics in Real-Life Contexts
| Year | Typical Contexts | Expected Outcomes | Preparation Ideas |
|---|---|---|---|
| MYP Year 1 / Year 7 / Grade 6 | Shopping, time, measurements, school timetables | Interpret data and choose operations correctly | Relate maths to daily life (tasks, pocket money) |
| MYP Year 2 / Year 8 / Grade 7 | Geometry in design, maps, temperature change | Create simple models to explain patterns | Use real maps, weather apps, construction sets |
| MYP Year 3 / Year 9 / Grade 8 | Data collection and interpretation, chance games | Evaluate accuracy of results and predictions | Conduct mini surveys and graph results |
| MYP Year 4 / Year 10 / Grade 9 | Scale drawings, financial literacy, motion graphs | Use maths to analyse real issues (costs, speed) | Budget projects or DIY design assignments |
| MYP Year 5 / Year 11 / Grade 10 | Statistical modelling, project analysis, optimization | Design mathematical models and justify assumptions | Prepare for eAssessment modelling tasks using spreadsheets and Desmos |
Progression of Content by Strand and Year
| Strand | MYP Year 1 / Year 7 / Grade 6 | MYP Year 2 / Year 8 / Grade 7 | MYP Year 3 / Year 9 / Grade 8 | MYP Year 4 / Year 10 / Grade 9 | MYP Year 5 / Year 11 / Grade 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number | Whole numbers & fractions | Integers & ratios | Rational numbers & percentages | Real numbers & powers | Complex relationships (rate, growth) |
| Algebra | Patterns & simple equations | Variables & formulae | Expanding & factorising | Linear & quadratic functions | Sequences, inequalities, proof |
| Geometry & Trigonometry | Shapes, angles, symmetry | Perimeter, area, volume | Pythagoras, coordinate geometry | Trigonometry, transformations | Vectors, circular measure |
| Statistics & Probability | Data collection & bar graphs | Mean, median, mode | Frequency tables, probability trees | Scatter plots, correlation | Standard deviation, regression |
| Financial & Modelling | Time, money concepts | Percent profit/loss | Simple interest | Compound growth, depreciation | Real-world modelling & analysis |
Approaches to Learning (ATL) in Maths
- Thinking skills: pattern recognition, deduction, problem decomposition
- Research skills: data collection, statistical investigation
- Communication: explain solutions verbally and visually
- Self-management: time management for multi-step tasks
- Social: collaborative problem-solving and peer review
- Encourage students to reflect: “How did I reach this answer?” and “Could I approach it another way?”
Assessment Timeline & Preparation Plan
| Term | Key Focus | Student Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | Review of previous year’s skills; introduce new criteria | Diagnostic quiz & goal setting |
| Term 2 | Mid-unit assessments (Criteria A & B) | Pattern investigation project |
| Term 3 | Application and communication (C & D) | Real-world modelling task |
| Term 4 | Summative assessment (all criteria) | End-of-year exam or portfolio reflection |
Preparation Strategy
- Maintain a math journal for criteria feedback.
- Review teacher rubrics and examples of levels 7–8.
- Practise time-bound tasks (simulate on-screen assessments).
- Collaborate in study pairs to compare problem-solving methods.
- Revisit Criterion language — “explain”, “justify”, “evaluate”.
How Parents Can Support
- Discuss how maths applies to daily life (finance, cooking, maps).
- Encourage children to verbalise their thinking instead of memorising steps.
- Review school criteria descriptors together after each unit.
- Celebrate progress on conceptual understanding, not just speed.