IB DP Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation Standard Level Course Companion (NYP Due February 2027)

Oxford Resources for IB DP Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation Standard Level Course Book is Oxford University Press’s new concept-based course book for IB Math AI SL, updated for the IB’s 2027 subject guide. It supports the new course from first teaching in August 2027 to first assessment in May 2029. It is written by Jennifer Chang Wathall, Jane Forrest, Paula Waldman, David Harris and Nadia Stoyanova Kennedy, experienced IB authors, examiners and educators.

Planning for the New AI SL Course

The IB has updated Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation for students starting the Diploma Programme from August 2027. The IB calls it a refinement rather than a reinvention: content is reduced, nothing is added, and teachers won’t need major retraining. The course keeps its focus on mathematical modelling and statistical analysis, with functions, calculus and technology used to solve real-world problems.

Content removed from AI SL:

• Logarithms
• Approximating areas using the trapezoidal rule

New content added: none.

Exam changes from May 2029:

Internal assessment: the Mathematical Exploration remains the IA task. SL and HL now share the same criteria, based on the IB’s mathematical inquiry process:

The new DP mathematics framework also sets out key attributes for math learners: reasoning, communicating mathematical ideas clearly, linking concepts across topics, and building the confidence and resilience of a successful math learner.

Why Teachers Choose This Course Book

Complete coverage of the 2027 guide. All syllabus topics and learning outcomes are covered, with clear explanations, worked solutions and varied activities to plan your scheme of work around.

Concept-based structure. A clear conceptual framework helps departments teach AI SL around connected big ideas rather than a checklist of skills.

Guiding questions in every unit. The guiding questions introduced in the new subject guide are embedded throughout, giving each lesson a ready-made inquiry focus.

Exploration-ready. Detailed guidance and extensive practice support the new assessment requirements, with a strengthened computational, inquiry-based approach that helps students build strong Mathematical Explorations against the new criteria.

A common starting point. “Prior Knowledge” exercises before each topic let you spot gaps early, which is especially helpful for mixed-background SL classes.

TOK and international-mindedness. Built-in prompts encourage discussion and give students a starting point for Mathematics TOK investigations.

Guidance on artificial intelligence. The “Building your AI toolkit” feature shows students how to use AI tools effectively, ethically and responsibly, which supports your school’s academic integrity policies.

Answers online. Answers are hosted online and continuously updated for accurate marking, planning and independent student study.

Ideal For

• IB math teachers choosing a Standard Level course book for the 2027 AI syllabus
• Heads of department and DP coordinators ordering class sets for August 2027
• Students aged 16–18 starting IB Math AI SL in 2027 or later
• Tutors and parents supporting AI SL students under the new guide

Book Details

• Title: Oxford Resources for IB DP Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation Standard Level Course Book
• Authors: Jennifer Chang Wathall, Jane Forrest, Paula Waldman, David Harris, Nadia Stoyanova Kennedy
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Series: Oxford Resources for IB
• ISBN-13: 9781382080798
• Format: Paperback
• Pages: 624
• Dimensions: 276 x 219 mm
• Publication date: 4 February 2027 (estimated; available for pre-order)
• Syllabus: IB DP Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation, 2027 subject guide, first assessment May 2029
• Level: Standard Level (SL)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the Oxford course book for the new 2027 IB Math AI SL syllabus?
Yes. It is fully updated for the 2027 subject guide, for first teaching in August 2027 and first exams in May 2029.

Are logarithms still in IB Math AI SL?
No. Logarithms and the trapezoidal rule have been removed from AI SL in the 2027 guide, and this course book follows the new content.

How many exam papers does AI SL have?
Two. From May 2029, Paper 1 and Paper 2 are each worth 75 marks. Paper 3 is taken only at Higher Level.

Is the IA different under the new guide?
The task is still the Mathematical Exploration, but it is now marked on four criteria shared with HL: problem specification, abstraction, computation and interpretation. This course book includes guidance and practice to prepare students for them.

What’s the difference between this and the AI HL Course Book?
The HL book covers additional higher-level content and prepares students for Paper 3. Oxford publishes it separately as the Applications and Interpretation Higher Level Course Book (ISBN 9781382080781).

Does “Building your AI toolkit” refer to the AI math course?
No. In that feature, “AI” means artificial intelligence. The course itself is Applications and Interpretation.

Is there an eBook?
Yes. Oxford sells an eBook version separately. This listing is for the printed paperback.

Can schools order class sets?
Yes. Contact us for school and bulk orders.