IGCSE Maths Content Guide - Copy Copy
IGCSE Maths Content Guide - Copy Copy
assessment in 2025
Introduction
This document compares learning objectives between Core and Extended tier in IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first
assessment 2025. The purpose of this document is to help teachers understand how understanding, techniques and
skills progress across the two tiers of subject content. This document is intended to support teachers in planning their
teaching and being aware of common areas of content and distinct areas of content. This document does not replace
the appropriate syllabus document.
Please see the syllabus for the appropriate year of teaching before planning your course.
You must read the whole syllabus before planning your teaching programme.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025
0580 (2025 – 2027 v) July 2023
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
1 Number 1 Number
C1.1 Types of number E1.1 Types of number Identical content in both tiers.
Identify and use: Identify and use:
• natural numbers • natural numbers
• integers (positive, zero and negative) • integers (positive, zero and negative)
• prime numbers • prime numbers
• square numbers • square numbers
• cube numbers • cube numbers
• common factors • common factors
• common multiples • common multiples
• rational and irrational numbers • rational and irrational numbers
• reciprocals. • reciprocals.
Example tasks include: Example tasks include:
• convert between numbers and words, e.g. six billion is • convert between numbers and words, e.g. six billion is
6 000 000 000 6 000 000 000
10 007 is ten thousand and seven 10 007 is ten thousand and seven
• express 72 as a product of its prime factors • express 72 as a product of its prime factors
• find the highest common factor (HCF) of two numbers • find the highest common factor (HCF) of two numbers
• find the lowest common multiple (LCM) of two • find the lowest common multiple (LCM) of two
numbers. numbers.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 2
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C1.2 Sets E1.2 Sets Some notation is assessed at the Extended tier but
Understand and use set language, notation and Venn Understand and use set language, notation and Venn not the Core tier.
diagrams to describe sets. diagrams to describe sets and represent relationships
Venn diagrams are limited to two sets. between sets.
The following set notation will be used: Venn diagrams are limited to two or three sets.
• n(A) Number of elements in set A The following set notation will be used:
• A′ Complement of set A • n(A) Number of elements in set A
•E Universal set • ∈ “… is an element of …”
• A ∪ B Union of A and B • ∉ “ …is not an element of …”
• A ∩ B Intersection of A and B. • A′ Complement of set A
Example definition of sets: •∅ The empty set
A = {x: x is a natural number} •E Universal set
B = {a, b, c, …} • A ⊆ B A is a subset of B
C = {x: a ⩽ x ⩽ b}. • A ⊈ B A is not a subset of B
• A ∪ B Union of A and B
• A ∩ B Intersection of A and B.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 3
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C1.4 Fractions, decimals and percentages E1.4 Fractions, decimals and percentages Extended tier content includes recurring decimals
1 Use the language and notation of the following in 1 Use the language and notation of the following in whereas Core tier does not.
appropriate contexts: appropriate contexts:
• proper fractions • proper fractions
• improper fractions • improper fractions
• mixed numbers • mixed numbers
• decimals • decimals
• percentages. • percentages.
Candidates are expected to be able to write fractions in Candidates are expected to be able to write fractions in
their simplest form. their simplest form.
Candidates are not expected to use recurring decimal Recurring decimal notation is required, e.g.
notation. • 0.17̇ = 0.1777 …
• 0.12̇ 3̇ = 0.1232323 …
����� = 0.123123 …
• 0. 123
2 Recognise equivalence and convert between these 2 Recognise equivalence and convert between these
forms. forms.
Candidates are not expected to demonstrate the Includes converting between recurring decimals and
conversion of a recurring decimal to a fraction and vice fractions and vice versa,
versa. e.g. write 0.17̇ as a fraction.
C1.5 Ordering E1.5 Ordering Identical content in both tiers.
Order quantities by magnitude and demonstrate Order quantities by magnitude and demonstrate
familiarity with the symbols =, ≠, >, < , ⩾ and ⩽ . familiarity with the symbols =, ≠, >, < , ⩾ and ⩽ .
C1.6 The four operations E1.6 The four operations Identical content in both tiers.
Use the four operations for calculations with integers, Use the four operations for calculations with integers,
fractions and decimals, including correct ordering of fractions and decimals, including correct ordering of
operations and use of brackets. operations and use of brackets.
Includes: Includes:
• negative numbers • negative numbers
• improper fractions • improper fractions
• mixed numbers • mixed numbers
• practical situations, e.g. temperature changes. • practical situations, e.g. temperature changes.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 4
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C1.7 Indices I E1.7 Indices I Extended tier content includes fraction powers
1 Understand and use indices (positive, zero and 1 Understand and use indices (positive, zero, negative, whereas Core tier does not.
negative integers). and fractional).
e.g. find the value of 7−2 . Examples include:
1
• 62 = √6
2 Understand and use the rules of indices. 1
4
e.g. find the value of 2−3 × 24 , (23 )4 , 23 ÷ 24 . • 164 = √16
1 2
• find the value of 7−2 , 812 , 8−3 .
3 Calculate with values in standard form. 3 Calculate with values in standard form.
Core candidates are expected to calculate with standard
form only on Paper 3.
C1.9 Estimation E1.9 Estimation Identical content in both tiers.
1 Round values to a specified degree of accuracy. 1 Round values to a specified degree of accuracy.
Includes decimal places and significant figures. Includes decimal places and significant figures.
e.g. write 5764 correct to the nearest thousand. e.g. write 5764 correct to the nearest thousand.
2 Make estimates for calculations involving numbers, 2 Make estimates for calculations involving numbers,
quantities and measurements. quantities and measurements.
e.g. by writing each number correct to 1 significant e.g. by writing each number correct to 1 significant
41.3 41.3
figure, estimate the value of . figure, estimate the value of .
9.79×0.765 9.79×0.765
3 Round answers to a reasonable degree of accuracy in 3 Round answers to a reasonable degree of accuracy in
the context of a given problem. the context of a given problem.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 5
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C1.10 Limits of accuracy E1.10 Limits of accuracy Extended tier content includes finding upper and
Give upper and lower bounds for data rounded to a 1 Give upper and lower bounds for data rounded to a lower bounds of the results of calculators whereas
specified accuracy. specified accuracy. Core tier does not.
e.g. write down the upper bound of a length measured e.g. write down the upper bound of a length measured
correct to the nearest metre. correct to the nearest metre.
Candidates are not expected to find the bounds of the
results of calculations which have used data rounded to 2 Find upper and lower bounds of the results of
a specified accuracy. calculations which have used data rounded to a
specified accuracy.
Example calculations include:
• calculate the upper bound of the perimeter or the area
of a rectangle given dimensions measured to the
nearest centimetre
• find the lower bound of the speed given rounded
values of distance and time.
C1.11 Ratio and proportion E1.11 Ratio and proportion Identical content in both tiers.
Understand and use ratio and proportion to: Understand and use ratio and proportion to:
• give ratios in their simplest form • give ratios in their simplest form
e.g. 20:30:40 in its simplest form is 2:3:4. e.g. 20:30:40 in its simplest form is 2:3:4.
• divide a quantity in a given ratio • divide a quantity in a given ratio
• use proportional reasoning and ratios in context. • use proportional reasoning and ratios in context.
e.g. adapt recipes; use map scales; determine best e.g. adapt recipes; use map scales; determine best
value. value.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 6
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C1.12 Rates E1.12 Rates Identical content in both tiers.
1 Use common measures of rate. 1 Use common measures of rate.
e.g. calculate with: e.g. calculate with:
• hourly rates of pay • hourly rates of pay
• exchange rates between currencies • exchange rates between currencies
• flow rates • flow rates
• fuel consumption. • fuel consumption.
3 Solve problems involving average speed. 3 Solve problems involving average speed.
Knowledge of speed/distance/time formula is required. Knowledge of speed/distance/time formula is required.
e.g. A cyclist travels 45km in 3 hours 45 minutes. What is e.g. A cyclist travels 45km in 3 hours 45 minutes. What
their average speed? is their average speed?
Notation used will be, e.g. m/s (metres per second), Notation used will be, e.g. m/s (metres per second),
g/cm3 (grams per cubic centimetre). g/cm3 (grams per cubic centimetre).
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 7
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C1.13 Percentages E1.13 Percentages Extended tier content includes repeated percentage
1 Calculate a given percentage of a quantity. 1 Calculate a given percentage of a quantity. change and reverse percentages whereas Core tier
does not.
2 Express one quantity as a percentage of another. 2 Express one quantity as a percentage of another.
4 Calculate with simple and compound interest. 4 Calculate with simple and compound interest.
Formulas are not given. Problems may include repeated percentage change.
Formulas are not given.
Percentage calculations may include:
• deposit 5 Calculate using reverse percentages.
• discount e.g. find the cost price given the selling price and the
• profit and loss (as an amount or a percentage) percentage profit.
• earnings
• percentages over 100%. Percentage calculations may include:
• deposit
• discount
• profit and loss (as an amount or a percentage)
• earnings
• percentages over 100%.
C1.14 Using a calculator E1.14 Using a calculator Identical content in both tiers.
1 Use a calculator efficiently. 1 Use a calculator efficiently.
e.g. know not to round values within a calculation and to e.g. know not to round values within a calculation and to
only round the final answer. only round the final answer.
3 Interpret the calculator display appropriately. 3 Interpret the calculator display appropriately.
e.g. in money 4.8 means $4.80; in time 3.25 means 3 e.g. in money 4.8 means $4.80; in time 3.25 means 3
hours 15 minutes. hours 15 minutes.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 8
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C1.15 Time E1.15 Time Identical content in both tiers.
1 Calculate with time: seconds (s), minutes (min), hours 1 Calculate with time: seconds (s), minutes (min), hours
(h), days, weeks, months, years, including the (h), days, weeks, months, years, including the
relationship between units. relationship between units.
1 year = 365 days. 1 year = 365 days.
2 Calculate times in terms of the 24-hour and 12-hour 2 Calculate times in terms of the 24-hour and 12-hour
clock. clock.
In the 24-hour clock, for example, 3.15 a.m. will be In the 24-hour clock, for example, 3.15 a.m. will be
denoted by 03 15 and 3.15 p.m. by 15 15. denoted by 03 15 and 3.15 p.m. by 15 15.
2 Convert from one currency to another. 2 Convert from one currency to another.
C1.17 Extended content only. E1.17 Exponential growth and decay Only in Extended tier.
Use exponential growth and decay.
e.g. depreciation, population change.
Knowledge of e is not required.
C1.18 Extended content only. E1.18 Surds Only in Extended tier. New content in Y25-Y27.
1 Understand and use surds, including simplifying
expressions.
Examples include:
• √20 = 2√5
• √200 − √32 = 6√2.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 9
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
2 Substitute numbers into expressions and formulas. 2 Substitute numbers into expressions and formulas.
C2.2 Algebraic manipulation E2.2 Algebraic manipulation Extended tier content includes simplifying, expanding
1 Simplify expressions by collecting like terms. 1 Simplify expressions by collecting like terms. and factorising more complicated expressions than
Simplify means give the answer in its simplest form, Simplify means give the answer in its simplest form, Core tier and also completing the square which is not
e.g. 2𝑎𝑎 + 3𝑏𝑏 + 5𝑎𝑎 − 9𝑏𝑏 = 7𝑎𝑎 − 6𝑏𝑏. e.g. 2𝑎𝑎2 + 3𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎 − 1 + 5𝑎𝑎2 − 9𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎 + 4 = 7𝑎𝑎2 − 6𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎 + 3. in Core tier.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 10
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C2.3 Extended content only. E2.3 Algebraic fractions Only in Extended tier.
1 Manipulate algebraic fractions.
Examples include:
𝑥𝑥 𝑥𝑥−4
• +
3 2
2𝑥𝑥 3(𝑥𝑥−5)
• − 2
3
3𝑎𝑎 9𝑎𝑎
• 4
×
10
3𝑎𝑎 9𝑎𝑎
• 4
÷
10
1 𝑥𝑥+1
• 𝑥𝑥−2
+
𝑥𝑥−3
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 11
C2.5 Equations E2.5 Equations Extended tier content includes more complicated
1 Construct simple expressions, equations and formulas. 1 Construct expressions, equations and formulas. expressions, equations and formulas than Core tier,
e.g. write an expression for a number that is 2 more than e.g. write an expression for the product of two and also fractional equations and simultaneous
𝑛𝑛. Includes constructing linear simultaneous equations. consecutive even numbers. equations where one is non-linear. Extended tier
Includes constructing simultaneous equations. content includes solving quadratic equations by
2 Solve linear equations in one unknown. various methods.
Examples include 2 Solve linear equations in one unknown.
• 3𝑥𝑥 + 4 = 10 Examples include:
• 5 − 2𝑥𝑥 = 3(𝑥𝑥 + 7). • 3𝑥𝑥 + 4 = 10
• 5 − 2𝑥𝑥 = 3(𝑥𝑥 + 7)
3 Solve simultaneous linear equations in two unknowns.
3 Solve fractional equations with numerical and linear
4 Change the subject of simple formulas. algebraic denominators.
e.g. change the subject of formulas where: Examples include:
𝑥𝑥
• the subject only appears once • =4
• there is not a power or root of the subject. 2𝑥𝑥+1
2 3
• 𝑥𝑥+2 + 2𝑥𝑥−1 = 1
𝑥𝑥 3
• 𝑥𝑥+2 = 𝑥𝑥−6.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 12
C2.6 Inequalities E2.6 Inequalities Inequalities are new in Core tier for Y25-Y27.
Represent and interpret inequalities, including on a 1 Represent and interpret inequalities, including on a Extended tier content also includes constructing and
number line. number line. solving linear inequalities, representing graphically
When representing and interpreting inequalities on a When representing and interpreting inequalities on a linear inequalities in two variables and defining a
number line: number line: region using inequalities.
• open circles should be used to represent strict • open circles should be used to represent strict
inequalities (<, >) inequalities (<, >)
• closed circles should be used to represent inclusive • closed circles should be used to represent inclusive
inequalities (⩽, ⩾). inequalities (⩽, ⩾).
e.g. − 3 ⩽ 𝑥𝑥 < 1 e.g. − 3 ⩽ 𝑥𝑥 < 1
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 13
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C2.7 Sequences E2.7 Sequences Extended tier content includes the use of notation,
1 Continue a given number sequence or pattern. 1 Continue a given number sequence or pattern. and more complicated examples of sequences than
e.g. write the next two terms in this sequence: Subscript notation may be used, e.g. Tn is the nth term in Core tier.
1, 3, 6, 10, 15, … , … of sequence T.
2 Recognise patterns in sequences, including the term- 2 Recognise patterns in sequences, including the term-
to-term rule, and relationships between different to-term rule, and relationships between different
sequences. sequences.
Includes linear, quadratic, cubic and exponential
sequences and simple combinations of these.
3 Find and use the nth term of the following sequences: 3 Find and use the nth term of sequences.
(a) linear
(b) simple quadratic
e.g. find the nth term of 2, 5, 10, 17
(c) simple cubic.
C2.8 Extended content only. E2.8 Proportion Only in Extended tier.
Express direct and inverse proportion in algebraic terms
and use this form of expression to find unknown
quantities.
Includes linear, square, square root, cube and cube root
proportion.
Knowledge of proportional symbol (∝) is required.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 14
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C2.9 Graphs in practical situations E2.9 Graphs in practical situations Extended tier content includes rate of change and
1 Use and interpret graphs in practical situations 1 Use and interpret graphs in practical situations calculating distance travelled whereas Core tier does
including travel graphs and conversion graphs. including travel graphs and conversion graphs. not.
e.g. interpret the gradient of a straight-line graph as a Includes estimation and interpretation of the gradient of
rate of change. a tangent at a point.
2 Draw graphs from given data. 2 Draw graphs from given data.
e.g. draw a distance–time graph to represent a journey.
3 Apply the idea of rate of change to simple kinematics
involving distance–time and speed–time graphs,
acceleration and deceleration.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 15
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C2.11 Sketching curves E2.11 Sketching curves Extended tier content includes cubic, reciprocal and
Recognise, sketch and interpret graphs of the following Recognise, sketch and interpret graphs of the following exponential graphs and their properties whereas
functions: functions: Core tier does not.
(a) linear (a) linear
(b) quadratic. (b) quadratic
Knowledge of symmetry and roots is required. (c) cubic
Knowledge of turning points is not required. (d) reciprocal
(e) exponential.
Where 𝑎𝑎, 𝑏𝑏, 𝑐𝑐, and 𝑑𝑑 are rational numbers, functions will
be equivalent to:
• 𝑎𝑎𝑎𝑎 + 𝑏𝑏𝑏𝑏 = 𝑐𝑐,
• 𝑦𝑦 = 𝑎𝑎𝑥𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑏𝑏𝑏 + 𝑐𝑐,
• 𝑦𝑦 = 𝑎𝑎𝑥𝑥 3 + 𝑑𝑑,
• 𝑦𝑦 = 𝑎𝑎𝑥𝑥 3 + 𝑏𝑏𝑥𝑥 2 + 𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐.
Where 𝑚𝑚 and 𝑛𝑛 are integers, functions will be equivalent
to:
𝑚𝑚
• 𝑦𝑦 = + 𝑛𝑛
𝑥𝑥
• 𝑦𝑦 = 𝑚𝑚 𝑥𝑥 + 𝑛𝑛
Knowledge of turning points, vertical and horizontal
asymptotes, roots and symmetry is required.
Finding turning points of quadratics by completing the
square may be required.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 16
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C2.12 Extended content only. E2.12 Differentiation Only in Extended tier.
1 Estimate gradients of curves by drawing tangents.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 17
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C2.13 Extended content only. E2.13 Functions Only in Extended tier.
1 Understand functions, domain and range and use
function notation.
Examples include:
• f(𝑥𝑥) = 3𝑥𝑥 – 5
3(𝑥𝑥 + 4)
• g(𝑥𝑥) =
5
• h(𝑥𝑥) = 2𝑥𝑥 2 + 3.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 18
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C3.4 Extended content only. E3.4 Length and midpoint Only in Extended tier.
1 Calculate the length of a line segment.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 19
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
4 Geometry 4 Geometry
C4.1 Geometrical terms E4.1 Geometrical terms Extended tier content additionally includes the terms
1 Use and interpret the following geometrical terms: 1 Use and interpret the following geometrical terms: plane, perpendicular bisector and more complicated
• point • point solids than Core tier, e.g. hemisphere and frustum.
• vertex • vertex Major and minor arcs are distinguished in Extended
• line • line tier but not in Core tier.
• parallel • plane
• perpendicular • parallel
• bearing • perpendicular
• right angle • perpendicular bisector
• acute, obtuse and reflex angles • bearing
• interior and exterior angles • right angle
• similar • acute, obtuse and reflex angles
• congruent • interior and exterior angles
• scale factor. • similar
Candidates are not expected to show that two shapes • congruent
are congruent. • scale factor.
Candidates are not expected to show that two shapes
are congruent.
2 Use and interpret the vocabulary of: 2 Use and interpret the vocabulary of:
• triangles • triangles
• special quadrilaterals • special quadrilaterals
• polygons • polygons
• nets • nets
• simple solids. • solids.
Includes the following terms: Includes the following terms:
Triangles: Triangles:
• equilateral • equilateral
• isosceles • isosceles
• scalene • scalene
• right-angled. • right-angled.
Quadrilaterals: Quadrilaterals:
• square • square
• rectangle • rectangle
• kite • kite
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 20
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
• rhombus • rhombus
• parallelogram • parallelogram
• trapezium. • trapezium.
Polygons: Polygons:
• regular and irregular polygons • regular and irregular polygons
• pentagon • pentagon
• hexagon • hexagon
• octagon • octagon
• decagon. • decagon.
Simple solids: Solids:
• cube • cube
• cuboid • cuboid
• prism • prism
• cylinder • cylinder
• pyramid • pyramid
• cone • cone
• sphere (term ‘hemisphere’ not required) • sphere
• face • hemisphere
• surface • frustum
• edge. • face
• surface
• edge.
3 Use and interpret the vocabulary of a circle. 3 Use and interpret the vocabulary of a circle.
Includes the following terms: Includes the following terms:
• centre • centre
• radius (plural radii) • radius (plural radii)
• diameter • diameter
• circumference • circumference
• semicircle • semicircle
• chord • chord
• tangent • tangent
• arc • major and minor arc
• sector • sector
• segment. • segment.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 21
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C4.2 Geometrical constructions E4.2 Geometrical constructions Identical content in both tiers.
1 Measure and draw lines and angles. 1 Measure and draw lines and angles.
A ruler should be used for all straight edges. A ruler should be used for all straight edges.
Constructions of perpendicular bisectors and angle Constructions of perpendicular bisectors and angle
bisectors are not required. bisectors are not required.
2 Construct a triangle, given the lengths of all sides, 2 Construct a triangle, given the lengths of all sides,
using a ruler and pair of compasses only. using a ruler and pair of compasses only.
e.g. construct a rhombus by drawing two triangles. e.g. construct a rhombus by drawing two triangles.
Construction arcs must be shown. Construction arcs must be shown.
3 Draw, use and interpret nets. 3 Draw, use and interpret nets.
Examples include: Examples include:
• draw nets of cubes, cuboids, prisms and pyramids. • draw nets of cubes, cuboids, prisms and pyramids.
• use measurements from nets to calculate volumes and • use measurements from nets to calculate volumes and
surface areas. surface areas.
C4.3 Scale drawings E4.3 Scale drawings Identical content in both tiers.
1 Draw and interpret scale drawings. 1 Draw and interpret scale drawings.
A ruler must be used for all straight edges. A ruler must be used for all straight edges.
2 Use and interpret three-figure bearings. 2 Use and interpret three-figure bearings.
Bearings are measured clockwise from north (000° to Bearings are measured clockwise from north (000° to
360°) 360°)
e.g. find the bearing of A from B if the bearing of B from e.g. find the bearing of A from B if the bearing of B from
A is 025°. A is 025°.
Includes an understanding of the terms north, east, Includes an understanding of the terms north, east,
south and west. south and west.
e.g. point D is due east of point C. e.g. point D is due east of point C.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 22
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C4.4 Similarity E4.4 Similarity Extended tier content includes areas of shapes,
Calculate lengths of similar shapes. 1 Calculate lengths of similar shapes. surface areas and volumes of solids and problem-
solving whereas Core tier does not.
2 Use the relationships between lengths and areas of
similar shapes and lengths, surface areas and volumes
of similar solids.
Includes use of scale factor, e.g.
Volume of 𝐴𝐴 (Length of 𝐴𝐴)3
Volume of 𝐵𝐵
= (Length of 𝐵𝐵)3.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 23
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C4.6 Angles E4.6 Angles Extended tier content also includes angle properties
1 Calculate unknown angles and give simple 1 Calculate unknown angles and give simple of irregular polygons.
explanations using the following geometrical properties: explanations using the following geometrical properties:
• sum of angles at a point = 360° • sum of angles at a point = 360°
• sum of angles at a point on a straight line = 180° • sum of angles at a point on a straight line = 180°
• vertically opposite angles are equal • vertically opposite angles are equal
• angle sum of a triangle = 180° and angle sum of a • angle sum of a triangle = 180° and angle sum of a
quadrilateral = 360°. quadrilateral = 360°.
Knowledge of 3-letter notation for angles is required, e.g. Knowledge of 3-letter notation for angles is required, e.g.
angle ABC. Candidates will be expected to use the angle ABC. Candidates will be expected to use the
correct geometrical terminology when giving reasons for correct geometrical terminology when giving reasons for
answers. answers.
2 Calculate unknown angles and give geometric 2 Calculate unknown angles and give geometric
explanations for angles formed within parallel lines: explanations for angles formed within parallel lines:
• corresponding angles are equal • corresponding angles are equal
• alternate angles are equal • alternate angles are equal
• co-interior (supplementary) angles sum to 180°. • co-interior (supplementary) angles sum to 180°.
3 Know and use angle properties of regular polygons. 3 Know and use angle properties of regular and irregular
Includes exterior and interior angles, and angle sum. polygons.
Includes exterior and interior angles, and angle sum.
C4.7 Circle theorems E4.7 Circle theorems I Circle theorems are new in Core tier for Y25-Y27.
Calculate unknown angles and give explanations using Calculate unknown angles and give explanations using Extended tier includes a longer list of theorems than
the following geometrical properties of circles: the following geometrical properties of circles: Core tier.
• angle in a semicircle = 90° • angle in a semicircle = 90°
• angle between tangent and radius = 90°. • angle between tangent and radius = 90°
Candidates will be expected to use the geometrical • angle at the centre is twice the angle at the
properties listed in the syllabus when giving reasons for circumference
answers. • angles in the same segment are equal
• opposite angles of a cyclic quadrilateral sum to 180°
(supplementary)
• alternate segment theorem.
Candidates will be expected to use the geometrical
properties listed in the syllabus when giving reasons for
answers.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 24
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C4.8 Extended content only. E4.8 Circle theorems II Only in Extended tier.
Use the following symmetry properties of circles:
• equal chords are equidistant from the centre
• the perpendicular bisector of a chord passes through
the centre
• tangents from an external point are equal in length.
Candidates will be expected to use the geometrical
properties listed in the syllabus when giving reasons for
answers.
5 Mensuration 5 Mensuration
C5.1 Units of measure E5.1 Units of measure Identical content in both tiers.
Use metric units of mass, length, area, volume and Use metric units of mass, length, area, volume and
capacity in practical situations and convert quantities into capacity in practical situations and convert quantities
larger or smaller units. into larger or smaller units.
Units include: Units include:
• mm, cm, m, km • mm, cm, m, km
• mm2 , cm2 , m2 , km2 • mm2 , cm2 , m2 , km2
• mm3 , cm3 , m3 • mm3 , cm3 , m3
• ml, l • ml, l
• g, kg. • g, kg.
Conversion between units includes: Conversion between units includes:
• between different units of area, e.g. cm2 ↔ m2 • between different units of area, e.g. cm2 ↔ m2
• between units of volume and capacity, • between units of volume and capacity,
e.g. m3 ↔ litres. e.g. m3 ↔ litres.
C5.2 Area and perimeter E5.2 Area and perimeter Identical content in both tiers.
Carry out calculations involving the perimeter and area Carry out calculations involving the perimeter and area
of a rectangle, triangle, parallelogram and trapezium. of a rectangle, triangle, parallelogram and trapezium.
Except for area of a triangle, formulas are not given. Except for the area of a triangle, formulas are not given.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 25
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C5.3 Circles, arcs and sectors E5.3 Circles, arcs and sectors The distinction is made between minor and major
1 Carry out calculations involving the circumference and 1 Carry out calculations involving the circumference and sectors in Extended tier content but not in Core tier.
area of a circle. area of a circle.
Answers may be asked for in terms of π. Answers may be asked for in terms of π.
Formulas are given in the List of formulas. Formulas are given in the List of formulas.
2 Carry out calculations involving arc length and sector 2 Carry out calculations involving arc length and sector
area as fractions of the circumference and area of a area as fractions of the circumference and area of a
circle, where the sector angle is a factor of 360°. circle.
Includes minor and major sectors.
C5.4 Surface area and volume E5.4 Surface area and volume Identical content in both tiers.
Carry out calculations and solve problems involving the Carry out calculations and solve problems involving the
surface area and volume of a: surface area and volume of a:
• cuboid • cuboid
• prism • prism
• cylinder • cylinder
• sphere • sphere
• pyramid • pyramid
• cone. • cone.
Answers may be asked for in terms of π. Answers may be asked for in terms of π.
The following formulas are given in the List of formulas: The following formulas are given in the List of formulas:
• curved surface area of a cylinder • curved surface area of a cylinder
• curved surface area of a cone • curved surface area of a cone
• surface area of a sphere • surface area of a sphere
• volume of a prism • volume of a prism
• volume of a pyramid • volume of a pyramid
• volume of a cylinder • volume of a cylinder
• volume of a cone • volume of a cone
• volume of a sphere. • volume of a sphere.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 26
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C5.5 Compound shapes and parts of shapes E5.5 Compound shapes and parts of shapes Extended tier content includes finding the surface
1 Carry out calculations and solve problems involving 1 Carry out calculations and solve problems involving area and volume of a frustum whereas Core tier
perimeters and areas of: perimeters and areas of does not.
• compound shapes • compound shapes
• parts of shapes. • parts of shapes.
Answers may be asked for in terms of π. Answers may be asked for in terms of π.
2 Carry out calculations and solve problems involving 2 Carry out calculations and solve problems involving
surface areas and volumes of: surface areas and volumes of
• compound solids • compound solids
• parts of solids. • parts of solids.
e.g. find the volume of half of a sphere. e.g. find the surface area and volume of a frustum.
6 Trigonometry 6 Trigonometry
C6.1 Pythagoras’ theorem E6.1 Pythagoras’ theorem Identical content in both tiers.
Know and use Pythagoras’ theorem. Know and use Pythagoras’ theorem.
C6.2 Right-angled triangles E6.2 Right-angled triangles Extended tier content also includes the shortest
1 Know and use the sine, cosine and tangent ratios for 1 Know and use the sine, cosine and tangent ratios for distance from a point to a line and angles of
acute angles in calculations involving sides and angles acute angles in calculations involving sides and angles elevation/depression.
of a right-angled triangle. of a right-angled triangle.
Angles will be given in degrees and answers should be Angles will be given in degrees and answers should be
written in degrees, with decimals correct to one decimal written in degrees, with decimals correct to one decimal
place. place.
2 Solve problems in two dimensions using Pythagoras’ 2 Solve problems in two dimensions using Pythagoras’
theorem and trigonometry. theorem and trigonometry.
Knowledge of bearings may be required. Knowledge of bearings may be required.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 27
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C6.3 Extended content only. E6.3 Exact trigonometric values Only in Extended tier. New in Y25-Y27.
Know the exact values of:
1 sin 𝑥𝑥 and cos 𝑥𝑥 for 𝑥𝑥 = 0°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 90°.
2 tan 𝑥𝑥 for 𝑥𝑥 = 0°, 30°, 45° and 60°.
C6.4 Extended content only. E6.4 Trigonometric functions Only in Extended tier.
1 Recognise, sketch and interpret the following graphs
for 0° ⩽ 𝑥𝑥 ⩽ 360°:
• 𝑦𝑦 = sin 𝑥𝑥
• 𝑦𝑦 = cos 𝑥𝑥
• 𝑦𝑦 = tan 𝑥𝑥.
C6.5 Extended content only. E6.5 Non-right-angled triangles Only in Extended tier.
1 Use the sine and cosine rules in calculations involving
lengths and angles for any triangle.
Includes problems involving obtuse angles and the
ambiguous case.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 28
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
Questions will not involve combinations of Questions may involve combinations of transformations.
transformations. A ruler must be used for all straight A ruler must be used for all straight edges.
edges.
C7.2 Extended content only. E7.2 Vectors in two dimensions Only in Extended tier.
1 Describe a translation using a vector represented by Adding and subtracting vectors, and multiplying a
𝑥𝑥 vector by a scalar, have been removed from Core
�𝑦𝑦� , �����⃗
𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 or a.
tier.
Vectors will be printed as �����⃗
𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 or a.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 29
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C7.4 Extended content only. E7.4 Vector geometry Only in Extended tier.
1 Represent vectors by directed line segments. Solving geometric problems using vectors is new
content.
2 Use position vectors.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 30
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C8.2 Relative and expected frequencies E8.2 Relative and expected frequencies Identical content in both tiers.
1 Understand relative frequency as an estimate of 1 Understand relative frequency as an estimate of
probability. probability.
e.g. use results of experiments with a spinner to estimate e.g. use results of experiments with a spinner to
the probability of a given outcome. estimate the probability of a given outcome.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 31
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C9.2 Interpreting statistical data E9.2 Interpreting statistical data Core tier includes comparing data sets using only the
1 Read, interpret and draw inferences from tables and 1 Read, interpret and draw inferences from tables and range as a measure of spread whereas Extended tier
statistical diagrams. statistical diagrams. includes other measures of spread as well.
2 Compare sets of data using tables, graphs and 2 Compare sets of data using tables, graphs and
statistical measures. statistical measures.
e.g. compare averages and ranges between two data e.g. compare averages and measures of spread
sets. between two data sets.
3 Appreciate restrictions on drawing conclusions from 3 Appreciate restrictions on drawing conclusions from
given data. given data.
C9.3 Averages and range E9.3 Averages and measures of spread Core tier includes calculating only the range as a
Calculate the mean, median, mode and range for 1 Calculate the mean, median, mode, quartiles, range measure of spread whereas Extended tier includes
individual data and distinguish between the purposes for and interquartile range for individual data and distinguish other measures of spread.
which these are used. between the purposes for which these are used.
Data may be in a list or frequency table, but will not be
grouped. 2 Calculate an estimate of the mean for grouped
discrete or grouped continuous data.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 32
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Notes
Core Content Extended Content
C9.5 Scatter diagrams E9.5 Scatter diagrams Identical content in both tiers.
1 Draw and interpret scatter diagrams. 1 Draw and interpret scatter diagrams.
Plotted points should be clearly marked, for example as Plotted points should be clearly marked, for example as
small crosses (×). small crosses (×).
2 Understand what is meant by positive, negative and 2 Understand what is meant by positive, negative and
zero correlation. zero correlation.
3 Draw by eye, interpret and use a straight line of best 3 Draw by eye, interpret and use a straight line of best
fit. fit.
A line of best fit: A line of best fit:
• should be a single ruled line drawn by inspection • should be a single ruled line drawn by inspection
• should extend across the full data set • should extend across the full data set
• does not need to coincide exactly with any of the points • does not need to coincide exactly with any of the points
but there should be a roughly even distribution of points but there should be a roughly even distribution of points
either side of the line over its entire length. either side of the line over its entire length.
C9.6 Extended content only. E9.6 Cumulative frequency diagrams Only in Extended tier.
1 Draw and interpret cumulative frequency tables and Box-and-whisker plots are no longer in Extended tier.
diagrams.
Plotted points on a cumulative frequency diagram should
be clearly marked, for example as small crosses (×), and
be joined with a smooth curve.
Tiering content guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) for first assessment in 2025 33