Written examinations: L1, L2 and Mathematics (five papers)
Domain 1 - Written examinations: L1, L2 and Mathematics
The written Baccalaureate consists of five papers. L1, L2 and Mathematics are compulsory; the remaining two papers are taken in the candidate's option subjects. For the 3-period Mathematics course, the written paper is the only external mathematics examination and it tests the whole S7 syllabus: algebraic manipulation, functions and graphs, sequences, trigonometry, coordinate geometry and vectors, probability and statistics, and introductory calculus. Questions reward method as well as the final answer, so a correct result without working can lose marks.
Core rules and concepts
- Show the substitution, formula or theorem you use before calculating. “Hence” questions depend on the previous part; do not restart from scratch.
- Give exact values (surds, fractions, π, e) unless the question specifies a decimal. Round only at the end.
- State domains and restrictions: denominators ≠ 0, arguments of logarithms > 0, square roots ≥ 0.
- For calculus, distinguish differentiation from integration; include +C for indefinite integrals and apply limits correctly for definite integrals.
- In probability, identify with/without replacement and independent/dependent events before multiplying.
- A sketch must show intercepts, asymptotes, turning points and the correct general shape; label axes.
Worked example
Solve log₂(x) + log₂(x − 3) = 2. Domain: x > 3. Combine: log₂[x(x − 3)] = 2, so x(x − 3) = 4. Then x² − 3x − 4 = 0, giving (x − 4)(x + 1) = 0. Candidates x = 4 or x = −1. Reject −1 because it is outside the domain. Answer: x = 4. The mark scheme rewards the domain statement and the rejection of the extraneous root, not just the algebra.
Traps that cost marks
- Combining logs or squaring without checking the domain.
- Using degrees in a calculus or trigonometric identity that requires radians.
- Dropping a negative root when the context allows it, or keeping it when it does not.
- Misreading “show that” as “solve”: the printed result is given, so the working must prove it.
- Losing the final mark by rounding too early or omitting units.