A Comparative Study of Integration Methods in A-Level Mathematics and Chinese Senior High School Mathematics Textbooks

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jhve.202616413

Author(s)

Li Yu

Affiliation(s)

Suzhou Vocational Institute of Industrial Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China

Abstract

Calculus serves as a key difficult module in senior mathematics and a critical bridge connecting elementary and advanced mathematics. Significant differences exist between the A-Level international curriculum and China’s standard senior high school mathematics textbooks in terms of the knowledge framework of integration, systems of problem-solving techniques, examination priorities and orientation of mathematical thinking. Taking mainstream syllabuses of CAIE and Edexcel A-Level together with People’s Education Press senior high school mathematics textbooks as research objects, this paper conducts a comparative analysis from four dimensions: scope of knowledge coverage, core integration approaches, examination logic and cultivation of mathematical thinking. It sorts out similarities and disparities between the two systems, explores the underlying curriculum orientations and educational rationales behind such differences, and proposes targeted learning strategies for trans-system learners preparing for examinations and building knowledge connections. This research reveals that integration teaching in domestic senior high schools emphasizes theoretical derivation, algebraic manipulation and in-depth critical thinking, while A-Level integration prioritizes formula application, standardized problem routines and scenario modelling. The two systems are highly complementary. Systematic mastery of their characteristics can effectively improve learners’ comprehensive ability to solve calculus problems and develop core mathematical literacy.

Keywords

A-Level Mathematics; Chinese Senior High School Mathematics; Integration Methods; Curriculum Comparison; Calculus Teaching

References

[1] People’s Education Press. Senior High School Mathematics (Selective Compulsory) [M]. Beijing: People’s Education Press. [2] Cambridge Assessment International Education. Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics Syllabus[Z]. [3] Pearson Edexcel. International Advanced Level Mathematics Specification[Z]. [4] Wang Shenhuai. Research on Core Literacy Cultivation in Senior High School Calculus Teaching[J]. Middle School Mathematics Teaching Reference. [5] International Curriculum Research Centre. A Comparative Analysis of A-Level Mathematics and Domestic Senior High School Mathematics Curriculum Systems[J]. International Education Exploration.