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Ecolint Campus des NationsMathematics
Transition · Year 9 → Year 10

Standard or Extended pathway

Year 10 is where the MYP mathematics curriculum formally splits into a Standard pathway and an Extended pathway. Both pathways lead into the Diploma Programme, but they prepare for different DP courses and cover different amounts of material.

What changes in Year 10

The pathway split is the most visible change, but the depth and pace of the work also step up across both routes.

Standard / Extended pathway split

Both pathways share a common core, but the Extended pathway covers additional content marked as [EXT] in the unit objectives. Extended aligns with the Analysis-track DP courses (AASL / AAHL); Standard is sufficient for the Applications-track DP courses (AISL / AIHL).

Algebra and trigonometry deepen

Index laws, rearranging formulae, function notation, and trigonometric problem solving move from introductory to fluent. Pace through routine work increases.

Multi-stage assessment tasks

Sample assessments increasingly include extended, multi-step problems rather than collections of single-skill questions. Communicating reasoning (Criterion C) becomes more central.

How pathway is decided

The school recommends a pathway based on Year 9 attainment, MYP grades, and a teacher recommendation. Pathway can be reviewed at the end of Year 10. In practice, movement is usually one-way: students can step down from Extended to Standard if needed; moving up later is rarer and depends on demonstrated readiness.

The pathway choice is a recommendation about preparation for DP, not a judgement about ability. Strong DP outcomes are routinely achieved on either route.

How to prepare

  • Solid algebra: expanding, factorising, manipulating expressions, solving linear and simple quadratic equations.
  • Confidence with Pythagoras and right-angled trigonometry, including word problems.
  • Fluency reading and writing function notation (f(x) style).
  • Comfort presenting working as a sequence of clear steps, not just final answers.

Transition materials

Transition packs (recap booklets, summer practice, recommended reading) will be linked here as they are finalised. Check back near the end of the academic year.

Common questions

Does Extended close off any DP courses?

No. Extended keeps all four DP courses open. Standard tends to lead more naturally into AISL and (for some students) AIHL.

Can a student move pathway during Year 10?

Mid-year changes are uncommon but possible if a clear case emerges. Most reviews happen at the end of Year 10.

How is the Extended content covered?

Extended classes cover the Standard objectives plus the [EXT]-marked objectives in each unit. The amount of additional content varies by unit.

Continue

Each Year 10 unit page lists the learning objectives, with [EXT] markers for Extended-only content.