Maths in the IB Middle Years Curriculum feels very different compared to traditional systems like CBSE, IGCSE, or even American curricula. It isn’t about memorizing formulas or rushing through sums. It’s about how well you understand concepts, explain your reasoning & apply them in real-life situations. Many students get caught off guard when they realize that in MYP, you can solve a question correctly yet still lose marks for not showing the process clearly. These challenges are common for students across the world, but for students in the UAE the shift feels even bigger, since many find it difficult to adjust with this approach. 

Here are six tried & tested strategies from expert IB tutors that can make a real difference. 1. Learn to Think in Criteria, Not Just Answers 

MYP grading is built around four criteria: Knowing & Understanding, Investigating Patterns, Communicating, and Applying Maths in Real Life. Many students lose marks because they only write the solution and forget to show reasoning. Train yourself to explain your thinking step by step for eg., why you chose a method, how you applied it, and what the result means. This habit alone can boost grades significantly. 

2. Build Conceptual Clarity with “Why” Questions 

Instead of memorizing formulas, dig deeper into why they work. For ex., do not just use Pythagoras’ theorem, visualize why the square of the hypotenuse equals the sum of the other two squares. Asking yourself “why does this make sense?” strengthens long-term memory and helps in unfamiliar problem situations. 

3. Connect Maths to Real Life 

One of the strongest features of the MYP is its focus on real-world applications. Instead of treating maths as just numbers on paper try linking it to everyday situations. Use geometry to plan a room layout, algebra to track your monthly budget or probability to analyze sports scores and outcomes. Keeping a small “Math in My Life” notebook with these examples helps you see how maths shows up in daily routines. This habit also prepares you well for Criterion D tasks, where applying concepts to practical contexts is a big part of scoring high 

4. Revise in Spirals, Not in Chunks 

MYP maths is cumulative. Instead of cramming one chapter before tests, revise small portions of old and new concepts daily. Even 20 minutes of mixed practice improves retention. This approach works well for busy UAE students balancing academics with extracurricular activities.

5. Present Your Work Neatly & Clearly 

Communication matters. Use correct mathematical symbols, neat diagrams & structured steps. Many students in the UAE lose easy marks simply because their work looks rushed or unclear. Clear presentation directly affects Criterion C scores. 

6. Seek Timely Support from Expert Tutors 

Sometimes no matter how much you practice, certain topics just don’t click right away. In the MYP, where concepts keep building on one another leaving gaps for too long can make future lessons even harder. That’s why getting help from a tutor at the right time really helps. A good tutor explains concepts in a way that matches your learning style, breaks down tricky topics into simpler steps & guides you on how to approach assessments according to IB criteria. 

Why Choosing the Right Guidance Matters 

Excelling in MYP maths is less about raw intelligence and more about strategy. It involves understanding the criteria, building clarity, connecting maths to your own life, and communicating solutions well. 

At NowClasses, we believe the right guidance at the right time can change everything. Our core strength lies in providing expert-led IB MYP classes online, designed for students across the UAE who want flexibility without compromising quality. With live sessions, personal attention & easy access to resources, our online platform ensures every student learns at their own pace & convenience. 

For those who prefer in-person learning, our learning centre in JLT offers face-to-face support. We also provide home-schooling solutions in both online and offline modes. At NowClasses, our experienced tutors and flexible formats make sure you always get the support you need to excel.