IGCSE Maths Topics by Exam Board: Full List
Written by: Jamie Wood
Reviewed by: Naomi C
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Contents
- 1. CIE IGCSE Maths and International Maths Topics
- 2. What is Covered in CIE IGCSE Maths Papers?
- 3. Revision Resources for CIE IGCSE Maths and International Maths
- 4. Edexcel IGCSE Maths A Topics
- 5. What is Covered in Edexcel IGCSE Maths A Papers?
- 6. Revision Resources for Edexcel IGCSE Maths A
- 7. Improve Your Grades with Save My Exams
There are several different exam boards that offer IGCSE maths qualifications. This can make finding information about the content that is covered confusing for students and parents. This article details the IGCSE maths topics that are covered for each of the main exam boards, so you can rest assured that you know what you need to know for success in your maths IGCSE.
The most popular IGCSE maths courses, which are covered in this article, are:
CIE Maths (0580) Core and Extended
CIE International Maths (0607) Core and Extended
Edexcel Maths A Foundation and Higher
Edexcel Maths A (Modular) Foundation and Higher
CIE IGCSE Maths and International Maths Topics
In this section, the topics for CIE IGCSE Maths are listed, along with the similar course, CIE IGCSE International Maths. The major differences between Core and Extended for both courses are also noted.
CIE IGCSE Maths can be broadly divided into the following topics:
Number
Algebra & Sequences
Coordinate Geometry & Graphs
Geometry
Lengths, Areas & Volumes
Pythagoras & Trigonometry
Vectors & Transformations
Probability
Statistics
1. Number
Number is a fundamental topic in IGCSE mathematics, as it forms the core of numerical literacy. Number topics cover essential skills and underpin more advanced concepts in other areas of the course.
CIE Maths Core number topics include:
Types of Numbers, and basic number skills
Operations with Numbers & Decimals
Prime Factors, HCF & LCM
Powers, Roots & Standard Form
Fractions and Operations with Fractions
Percentages
Simple & Compound Interest
Fractions, Decimals & Percentages
Ratio & Proportion
Money Calculations
Time, Currency & Conversions
Compound Measures (Speed, Density, Pressure)
Rounding, Estimation & Bounds
CIE Maths Extended number topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Set Notation & Venn Diagrams
Growth & Decay
Surds
CIE International Maths Core number topics include:
Types of Numbers, and basic number skills
Operations with Numbers & Decimals
Sets
Prime Factors, HCF & LCM
Powers, Roots & Standard Form
Fractions and Operations with Fractions
Percentages
Simple & Compound Interest
Fractions, Decimals & Percentages
Ratio & Proportion
Money Calculations
Time, Currency & Conversions
Compound Measures (Speed, Density, Pressure)
Rounding & Estimation
CIE International Maths Extended number topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Depreciation
Surds
2. Algebra & Sequences
Algebra is a fundamental topic in IGCSE mathematics, as it provides the foundation for problem-solving and mathematical reasoning. Algebraic concepts help develop essential skills in manipulating expressions, solving equations, and understanding relationships between variables, which are crucial for more advanced topics in the course.
CIE Maths Core algebra and sequences topics include:
Basic Algebra (simplifying and substitution)
Algebraic Roots & Indices
Expanding & Factorising Brackets
Linear Equations
Forming & Solving Equations
Inequalities
Rearranging Formulas
Simultaneous Equations
Sequences
CIE Maths Extended algebra and sequences topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Quadratic Equations
Algebraic Fractions
Functions
Direct & Inverse Proportion
CIE International Maths Core algebra and sequences topics include:
Basic Algebra (simplifying and substitution)
Simplifying Algebraic Fractions
Algebraic Roots & Indices
Expanding & Factorising Brackets
Linear Equations
Forming & Solving Equations
Inequalities
Rearranging Formulas
Simultaneous Equations
Sequences
CIE International Maths Extended algebra and sequences topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Quadratic Equations
Operations with Algebraic Fractions
Functions
Direct & Inverse Proportion
Exponentials & Logarithms
3. Coordinate Geometry & Graphs
Coordinate geometry and graphs are essential topics in IGCSE mathematics, as they provide a visual representation of mathematical relationships. These topics help develop skills in plotting points, interpreting graphs, and understanding the connections between equations and their graphical representations, which are crucial for problem-solving and real-world applications.
CIE Maths Core coordinate geometry and graphs topics include:
Gradients and Equations of Lines
Parallel Lines
Types of Graphs
Solving Equations from Graphs
Conversion Graphs
Distance-Time and Speed-Time Graphs
CIE Maths Extended coordinate geometry and graphs topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Midpoints and Lengths of Lines
Perpendicular Lines
Quadratic Graphs
Gradients of Tangents
Solving & Graphing Inequalities
Rates of Change Graphs
Differentiation
CIE International Maths Core coordinate geometry and graphs topics include:
Gradients and Equations of Lines
Midpoints and Lengths of Lines
Parallel Lines
Types of Graphs
Function Notation
Using Calculators for Graphs
CIE International Maths Extended coordinate geometry and graphs topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Perpendicular Lines
Quadratic, Cubic, Reciprocal, and Exponential Graphs
Sketching Inequalities and Regions
Transformations of Graphs
4. Geometry
Geometry is a core topic in IGCSE mathematics, covering shapes, angles, and constructions. It develops spatial reasoning through study of symmetry, polygons, parallel lines, and circle theorems, with practical applications in scale drawings and bearings.
CIE Maths Core geometry topics include:
Symmetry & Shapes
Basic Angle Properties
Angles in Polygons & Parallel Lines
Bearings, Constructions & Scale Drawings
Circle Theorems
CIE Maths Extended geometry topics include all of the above Core topics, but some areas are examined in greater depth. For example, there are more circle theorems required.
CIE International Maths Core geometry topics include:
Symmetry & Shapes
Basic Angle Properties
Angles in Polygons & Parallel Lines
Bearings
Circle Theorems
CIE International Maths Extended geometry topics include all of the above Core topics, but some areas are examined in greater depth. For example, there are more circle theorems required.
5. Lengths, Areas & Volumes
Lengths, areas, and volumes are key topics in IGCSE mathematics, focusing on measurement and spatial reasoning. Concepts like perimeter and volume, along with circles and similarity, are essential for solving real-world geometric problems.
CIE Maths Core lengths, areas, and volumes topics include:
Area & Perimeter
Circles, Arcs & Sectors
Volume & Surface Area
Congruence & Similarity
The topics for CIE Maths Extended are the same as above.
CIE International Maths Core lengths, areas, and volumes topics include:
Area & Perimeter
Circles, Arcs & Sectors
Volume & Surface Area
Congruence & Similarity
The topics for CIE International Maths Extended are the same as above.
6. Pythagoras & Trigonometry
Pythagoras and trigonometry are essential in IGCSE mathematics for solving problems involving right-angled triangles, 2D shapes, and angles. Key concepts include the Pythagorean theorem, trigonometric ratios, sine and cosine rules, and their applications in graphs and equations.
CIE Maths Core Pythagoras and trigonometry topics include:
Pythagoras’ theorem
Trigonometric Ratios
CIE Maths Extended Pythagoras and trigonometry topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Angles of Elevation & Depression
Exact Trig Values
Sine Rule
Cosine Rule
Area of Triangles
3D Pythagoras & Trigonometry
Trigonometric Graphs & Equations
CIE International Maths Core Pythagoras and trigonometry topics include:
Pythagoras’ theorem
Trigonometric Ratios
CIE International Maths Extended Pythagoras and trigonometry topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Angles of Elevation & Depression
Exact Trig Values
Sine Rule
Cosine Rule
Area of Triangles
3D Pythagoras & Trigonometry
Trigonometric Graphs & Equations
7. Vectors & Transformations
Vectors and transformations explore movement and positioning of points and shapes. Key topics include vector operations, translations, rotations, reflections, and enlargements.
CIE Maths Core vectors & transformations topics include:
Translations
Reflections
Rotations
Enlargements
CIE Maths Extended vectors & transformations topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Vector Basics
Magnitude of a Vector
Position & Displacement Vectors
Finding Vector Paths & Problem Solving
CIE International Maths Core vectors & transformations topics include:
Translations
Reflections
Rotations
Enlargements
CIE International Maths Extended vectors & transformations topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Vector Basics
Magnitude of a Vector
8. Probability
Probability explores the likelihood of events occurring, using concepts like tree diagrams, Venn diagrams, and conditional probability. It helps in making predictions and informed decisions based on data.
CIE Maths Core probability topics include:
Basic Probability & Sample Space Diagrams
Relative & Expected Frequency
Two-Way Tables
Set Notation & Venn Diagrams
Tree Diagrams
Combined Probability
CIE Maths Extended probability topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Conditional Probability
CIE International Maths Core probability topics include:
Basic Probability & Sample Space Diagrams
Relative & Expected Frequency
Two-Way Tables
Set Notation & Venn Diagrams
Tree Diagrams
Combined Probability
CIE International Maths Extended probability topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Conditional Probability
9. Statistics
Statistics involves collecting, analysing, and interpreting data. Key topics include averages, range, statistical diagrams, and scatter graphs, which help in identifying patterns, trends, and correlations in data.
CIE Maths Core statistics topics include:
Mean, Median, Mode
Range
Averages from Tables
Comparing Data Sets
Types of Data
Tally Charts & Frequency Tables
Stem & Leaf Diagrams
Bar Charts & Pictograms
Pie Charts
Scatter Graphs & Correlation
Lines of Best Fit
CIE Maths Extended statistics topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Averages from Grouped Data
Interquartile Range
Histograms
Cumulative Frequency Diagrams
CIE International Maths Core statistics topics include:
Mean, Median, Mode
Range
Interquartile Range
Averages from Tables
Comparing Data Sets
Types of Data
Tally Charts & Frequency Tables
Stem & Leaf Diagrams
Bar Charts & Pictograms
Pie Charts
Scatter Graphs & Correlation
Lines of Best Fit
CIE International Maths Extended statistics topics include all of the above Core topics, plus:
Averages from Grouped Data
Cumulative Frequency Diagrams
What is Covered in CIE IGCSE Maths Papers?
For CIE Maths, any topic can appear in any paper. The papers sat by Core and Extended students are summarised in the table below.
Core | Paper 1 (No Calculator) Paper 3 (Calculator) |
Extended | Paper 2 (No Calculator) Paper 4 (Calculator) |
For CIE International Maths, any topic can appear in any paper. The papers sat by Core and Extended students are summarised in the table below.
Core | Paper 1 (No Calculator) Paper 3 (Calculator) Paper 5 (Calculator) Investigative Task |
Extended | Paper 2 (No Calculator) Paper 4 (Calculator) Paper 6 (Calculator) Investigative Task and Modelling Task |
Revision Resources for CIE IGCSE Maths and International Maths
Although needing to have a sound knowledge of all content within the IGCSE maths curriculum may sound daunting, we have you covered with our course-specific revision resources!
We’ve carefully combed through each specification to make sure that our Revision Notes, Exam Questions, Flashcards and Past Papers are all perfectly aligned with your particular board’s specification and style. Check out the links below.
CIE IGCSE Maths Core
CIE IGCSE Maths Extended
CIE IGCSE International Maths Core
CIE IGCSE International Maths Extended
Edexcel IGCSE Maths A Topics
In this section, the topics for Edexcel IGCSE Maths A are listed. There is also a modular version of the course, where the content is identical, but the topics are organised into modules.
Edexcel IGCSE Maths A can be broadly divided into the following topics:
Numbers & the Number System
Equations, Formulae & Identities
Sequences, Functions & Graphs
Geometry & Trigonometry
Vectors & Transformation Geometry
Statistics & Probability
1. Numbers & the Number System
Number is a fundamental topic in IGCSE mathematics, as it forms the core of numerical literacy. Number topics cover essential skills and underpin more advanced concepts in other areas of the course.
Edexcel IGCSE Maths numbers and the number system topics include:
Basic Operations (including Negatives & Decimals)
Types of Numbers
Prime Factors, HCF & LCM
Money Calculations
Set Notation & Venn Diagrams
Powers & Roots
Fractions Operations
Fractions, Decimals & Percentages
Rounding, Estimation & Bounds
Surds (Higher Only)
Exchange Rates & Best Buys
Standard Form
Using Percentages
Compound Interest & Depreciation
Ratios
Direct & Inverse Proportion
2. Equations, Formulae & Identities
Equations, formulae, and identities are essential in IGCSE mathematics, providing the tools to express and solve mathematical relationships. These topics develop algebraic manipulation skills and are the foundation for problem-solving across various areas of the course.
Edexcel IGCSE Maths equations, formulae and identities topics include:
Basic Algebra (Simplifying and Substitution)
Roots & Indices
Expanding Brackets
Factorising
Completing the Square (Higher Only)
Algebraic Fractions (Higher Only)
Rearranging Formulas
Algebraic Proof (Higher Only)
Solving Linear Equations
Solving Quadratic Equations
Solving Inequalities
Simultaneous Equations
Forming & Solving Equations
3. Sequences, Functions & Graphs
Sequences, functions, and graphs explore patterns and relationships between variables. These topics help visualise mathematical concepts, and provide a deeper understanding of algebraic and real-world applications.
Edexcel IGCSE Maths sequences, functions and graphs topics include:
Sequences and nth terms
Sum of an Arithmetic Series (Higher Only)
Functions (Higher Only)
Domain & Range (Higher Only)
Composite Functions (Higher Only)
Inverse Functions (Higher Only)
Coordinates
Midpoints of Lines
Gradients of Lines
Equations of Lines
Parallel Lines (Higher Only)
Perpendicular Lines (Higher Only)
Types of Graphs
Trigonometric Graphs (Higher Only)
Gradients of Tangents (Higher Only)
Distance-Time & Speed-Time Graphs
Conversion Graphs
Transformations of Graphs (Higher Only)
Differentiation (Higher Only)
Stationary Points (Higher Only)
Kinematics (Higher Only)
4. Geometry & Trigonometry
Geometry and trigonometry focus on shapes and angles. These topics are fundamental for understanding properties of shapes, solving geometry problems, and applying trigonometric ratios in various contexts.
Edexcel IGCSE Maths geometry and trigonometry topics include:
Standard & Compound Units
Compound Measures (Speed, Density & Pressure)
Angles in Polygons
Angles in Parallel Lines
Bearings, Scale Drawing & Constructions
Circle Theorems (Higher Only)
Area & Perimeter
Circles
Arcs & Sectors
Volume & Surface Area
Congruence & Similarity
Symmetry
Geometrical Proof
Similar Areas & Volumes (Higher Only)
Pythagoras’ Theorem
Right-Angled Trigonometry
Sine Rule (Higher Only)
Cosine Rule (Higher Only)
Area of a Triangle (non-right-angled) (Higher Only)
3D Pythagoras & Trigonometry (Higher Only)
5. Vectors & Transformation Geometry
Vectors and transformation geometry deal with movement, direction, and positioning in space. These topics provide essential skills for solving geometry problems, understanding coordinate systems, and applying transformations to shapes and points.
Edexcel IGCSE Maths vectors and transformation geometry topics include:
Representing Vectors (Higher Only)
Magnitude of a Vector (Higher Only)
Vector Paths (Higher Only)
Vector Proof (Higher Only)
Translations
Reflections
Rotations
Enlargements
Combinations of Transformations
6. Statistics & Probability
Statistics and probability develop the skills to analyse data, identify patterns, and predict outcomes. These topics are crucial for making informed decisions, understanding uncertainty, and making conclusions from real-world data.
Edexcel IGCSE Maths statistics and probability topics include:
Mean, Median & Mode
Averages from Tables
Averages from Grouped Data
Range
Quartiles and Interquartile Range (Higher Only)
Population & Sampling
Tally Charts & Frequency Tables
Comparing Distributions
Bar Charts & Pictograms
Two-Way Tables
Pie Charts
Interpreting Statistical Diagrams
Histograms (Higher Only)
Cumulative Frequency Diagrams (Higher Only)
Basic Probability
Sample Space Diagrams
Relative & Expected Frequency
Listing Outcomes
Probability & Venn Diagrams
Tree Diagrams (Higher Only)
Combined Probability (Higher Only)
Conditional Probability (Higher Only)
Combined Conditional Probabilities (Higher Only)
What is Covered in Edexcel IGCSE Maths A Papers?
For Edexcel IGCSE Maths A, any topic can appear in any paper. Students sit two papers in total, and a calculator is allowed in both.
For Edexcel IGCSE Maths A (Modular), the topics are split between two papers; Unit 1 and Unit 2. Knowledge of the Unit 1 content is assumed for students taking the Unit 2 exam. A calculator is allowed in both exams.
The table below summarises which topics are in which unit for Edexcel IGCSE Maths (Modular). The table also highlights which topics are only on the Higher tier paper.
Unit 1 | • Number - Basic number skills - Limits of accuracy - Surds and indices (Higher Only) • Algebra - Basic algebra skills - Set notation - Plotting graphs - Solving basic quadratics - Solving quadratics (Higher Only) - Completing the square (Higher Only) - The quadratic formula (Higher Only) • Shape, space and measure - Properties and areas of shapes - Trigonometry - Pythagoras' theorem - Compound measures (speed, density) - Sine and Cosine rule (Higher Only) - Sine area of a triangle (Higher Only) - 3D Pythagoras' theorem (Higher Only) • Handling data - Basic probability - Tree diagrams (Higher Only) - Conditional probability (Higher Only) - Histograms (Higher Only) |
Unit 2 | • Number - Ratio and proportion - Percentage skills - Standard form - Repeated percentage change (Higher Only) • Algebra - Inequalities - Simultaneous equations - Sequences - Change of subject - Algebraic proof (Higher Only) - Direct and inverse proportion (Higher Only) - Summation of arithmetic series (Higher Only) - Function notation and transformations (Higher Only) - Differentiation (Higher Only) • Shape, space and measure - Angles in polygons and circles - Symmetry - Constructions - Volume - Similarity - Transformations - Circle theorems (Higher Only) - Similar area and volume (Higher Only) - Vectors (Higher Only) • Handling data - Statistical measures - Cumulative frequency diagrams (Higher Only) |
From Edexcel IGCSE Maths A (Modular) Specification
Revision Resources for Edexcel IGCSE Maths A
Although the need to have a sound knowledge of all content within the IGCSE maths curriculum may sound daunting, we have you covered with our course specific revision resources!
We’ve carefully combed through each specification to make sure that our Revision Notes, Exam Questions, Flashcards and Past Papers are all perfectly aligned with your particular board’s specification and style. Check out the links below.
Edexcel IGCSE Maths A
Edexcel IGCSE Maths A (Modular) Unit 1
Edexcel IGCSE Maths A (Modular) Unit 2
Improve Your Grades with Save My Exams
Save My Exams is here to help you achieve the best grade possible in IGCSE Maths by offering expert-written resources specifically made for your exam board. We’ve got everything you need:
Detailed revision notes
Exam-style questions with student friendly worked solutions
Past papers with mark schemes
Flashcards
Videos
Whether you want to improve your understanding of key topics, test your knowledge, or sharpen your exam techniques, Save My Exams makes it easier and more effective for you to revise.
Explore Our IGCSE Maths Resources
References
CIE IGCSE Maths Specification
CIE IGCSE International Maths Specification
Edexcel IGCSE Maths Specification
Edexcel IGCSE Maths (Modular) Specification
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