0606

Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics (0606) - May-June 2023 Past Papers

Download 14 free IGCSE Additional Mathematics past papers, mark schemes, and examiner reports from the May-June 2023 Cambridge examination session. Includes question papers for all variants with full solutions.

About IGCSE Additional Mathematics (0606)

IGCSE Additional Mathematics extends beyond standard maths with calculus, trigonometry, and advanced algebra. Candidates must demonstrate fluency in differentiation, integration, and solving complex equations.

What this exam tests: Key skills include curve sketching, solving trigonometric equations, and applying calculus to real problems.

Papers available in variants 11, 12, 13 for different time zones. All variants cover the same Additional Mathematics syllabus with equal difficulty.

Grade Thresholds

0606 May-June 2023 Papers

0606 Paper 1 - Paper 1

2 hr • 80 marks

Tests broad syllabus knowledge with 40 questions. Each question has four options (A-D). Core tier paper.

Select variant:
Question Paper
Mark Scheme
QP + MS QP + ER

All variants (different time zones):

QP:
v1
v2
v3
MS:
v1
v2
v3

0606 Paper 2 - Paper 2

2 hr • 80 marks

Extended tier multiple choice with more challenging questions covering the full syllabus. 40 questions, 45 minutes.

Select variant:
Question Paper
Mark Scheme
QP + MS QP + ER

All variants (different time zones):

QP:
v1
v2
v3
MS:
v1
v2
v3

Other Resources

Additional materials to help you prepare and understand how exams are marked.

Examiner Report

Insights from examiners on how students performed. Learn common mistakes to avoid and what examiners look for in top answers.

View

0606 May-June 2023 - Topics Breakdown by Paper

Each Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics (0606) paper tests specific syllabus topics. Below is a breakdown of topics for each paper in May-June 2023, showing how marks are distributed. Use this to focus your revision on topics relevant to your papers.

0606 Paper 1 (Paper 1)

80 marks total
Arithmetic and geometric progressions (Series)
13m

Study tip: If you're taking the Extended tier, focus on Papers 2, 4, and 6. For Core tier, prepare for Papers 1, 3, and 5/6. Review the topics above for your specific papers and practice past questions from those syllabus areas.

Examiner Insights - May-June 2023

Key feedback from Cambridge examiners on how students performed

Key Takeaways

  • • Read questions carefully and answer them fully, paying attention to key words and phrases.
  • • Show all steps in working, especially in non-calculator questions and when asked to 'Show that'.
  • • When using 'Hence...', use the previous result to solve the current part of the question.
  • • Maintain accuracy by working to at least 4 significant figures in intermediate calculations.
  • • Practice algebraic manipulation and integration/differentiation techniques to avoid errors.
Paper 11 - Paper 11

The paper assessed a good range of syllabus objectives, with most candidates demonstrating a good standard of presentation. Candidates should focus on reading each question carefully and avoiding careless slips in manipulation, especially with signs and brackets. Some candidates did not correctly apply the 'Hence' instruction in some questions.

Study Tips:

  • ✓ Practice manipulating algebraic expressions with a focus on sign accuracy and bracket usage.
  • ✓ Review the application of 'Hence' in problem-solving to ensure you understand how to link question parts.
  • ✓ Focus on improving understanding of topics where responses were weakest, such as velocity-time graphs and combinations/permutations.

Common Mistakes:

Q1(a) (Completing the Square)
✗ Incorrect denominator or expression within brackets when completing the square.
→ Double-check your calculations when dividing by the coefficient of x^2 and ensure correct bracket manipulation.
QGeneral (Algebraic Manipulation)
✗ Errors in signs and omission of essential brackets when manipulating expressions and equations.
→ Pay close attention to signs and use brackets liberally to avoid errors in order of operations.
QGeneral (Integration)
✗ Confused notation when integrating and omission of the arbitrary constant.
→ Use correct integral notation and always remember to add the constant of integration, +c.
QQuestions starting with 'Hence' (Problem solving)
✗ Not using the result from the previous part of the question when the question starts with the word ‘Hence’.
→ Recognize that 'Hence' indicates a direct link to the previous part; identify and use that result.
Paper 12 - Paper 12

Candidates seemed to have sufficient time, and the questions provided a chance to demonstrate learning. A critical point is following instructions, especially regarding calculator use, and showing sufficient detail in solutions. Accuracy in calculations and careful reading of questions are vital.

Study Tips:

  • ✓ Practice non-calculator techniques, emphasizing clear and detailed working.
  • ✓ Pay close attention to the wording of questions and ensure you are answering fully and using all given information.
  • ✓ Work to at least 4 significant figures in intermediate calculations to maintain accuracy in final answers.

Common Mistakes:

Q2 (Solving Quadratic Equations)
✗ Insufficient working shown in non-calculator questions, especially rationalization of surds.
→ Show every step when a calculator is not allowed, including expansion, simplification, and rationalization.
Q4(a) (Circular measure)
✗ Not using radian measure when the angle is given in radians.
→ Ensure your calculator is in radian mode when dealing with angles given in radians.
Q3 (Modulus Functions)
✗ Incorrect handling of modulus functions when solving inequalities, leading to extra or incorrect critical values.
→ Carefully consider both positive and negative cases when working with modulus functions.
Q6(b) (Trigonometric Equations)
✗ Omitting solutions in trigonometric equations within a given range.
→ Be systematic in finding all possible solutions within the specified domain.
Paper 13 - Paper 13

Most candidates had sufficient time, and the questions provided a chance to demonstrate learning. Candidates should be reminded that when a sketch has been asked for, they should check to ensure the relevant details have been included and should also realise the importance of the word ‘Hence’ when used in the context of an examination paper. Also they should check they have answered the question demands in full.

Study Tips:

  • ✓ Revise the properties of trigonometric functions, including their periods and shapes.
  • ✓ Practice problem-solving questions that require applying multiple concepts.
  • ✓ Carefully read and follow the instructions in each question to ensure you address all requirements.

Common Mistakes:

Q1(a) (Trigonometric functions)
✗ Incorrectly calculating the period of a tangent function.
→ Remember that tan(θ) has a period of π, not 2π.
Q2(b) (Completing the Square)
✗ Not using the completed square form from part (a) when the question begins with 'Hence'.
→ Always use the result from the previous part when you see the word 'Hence'.
Q3(a) (Logarithms)
✗ Difficulty dealing with constant values within logarithmic equations, such as not recognizing that 3 = lg 1000.
→ Remember to rewrite constants as logarithms to simplify equations.
Q9(b) (Sketching a Curve)
✗ Not including relevant details on the sketch such as the coordinates of intersections with the axes.
→ When sketching curves, label all intercepts with the axes and any turning points.
Paper 21 - Paper 21

Overall, some responses were well-presented and demonstrated strong mathematical skills, while others showed a need for improvement in clear and organized working. Candidates should focus on showing full and clear methods, providing answers in the required form, and being aware of the instructions on the front page of the examination paper. Some candidates were not specific in questions where an exact answer was required.

Study Tips:

  • ✓ Practice applying logarithmic rules accurately and avoiding common errors.
  • ✓ Work on solving problems requiring the area under the curve and careful attention to limits of integration.
  • ✓ Review the definitions of domain and range and ensure you can express them correctly in inequality form.

Common Mistakes:

Q1 (Logarithmic equations)
✗ Adding rather than multiplying when removing the log from a correct linear equation.
→ Double-check that you are applying the log rules correctly when removing logarithms.
Q4(a) (Logarithmic Rules)
✗ Errors in the application of log rules such as incorrectly multiplying coefficients.
→ Carefully review the rules of logarithms and ensure accurate application.
Q7(a) (Area under curve)
✗ Not showing the substitution of limits when finding definite integrals
→ Ensure all the working is shown when an answer is given or an approximation is not required.
Q8(a)(i) (Functions)
✗ Confused between domain and range when writing inequalities.
→ Make sure the domain is in terms of x and the range in terms of f –1(x) or y.

Insights extracted from the official Cambridge Examiner Report for 0606 May-June 2023. View full report →

About Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics (0606)

Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics (0606) is one of the most popular qualifications taken by students worldwide. The May-June 2023 examination session included 2 paper components, each testing different skills and knowledge areas.

This page contains all 0606 past papers from May-June 2023, including question papers (QP), mark schemes (MS), and examiner reports (ER). Use these resources to practice under timed conditions and understand how examiners award marks.

View all 0606 past papers → | All 2023 sessions →

Get Additional Mathematics Study Tips

Join students preparing for 0606. Get weekly study tips, new past papers alerts, and exam reminders.

0606 Study Tips & FAQ

What are paper variants?

Cambridge releases multiple variants of each paper (e.g., Paper 11, 12, 13) to accommodate different time zones around the world and maintain exam security.

  • Variant 1 (e.g., 11, 21): Usually for Zone 1 (Americas)
  • Variant 2 (e.g., 12, 22): Usually for Zone 2 (Europe, Africa)
  • Variant 3 (e.g., 13, 23): Usually for Zone 3 (Asia, Oceania)

All variants cover the same syllabus and have similar difficulty. Practice with any variant to prepare effectively for your exam.

How to use Mark Schemes effectively

Mark schemes show exactly how examiners award marks for each question. Understanding them helps you write answers that earn full marks.

Example from a Physics mark scheme:

Q: Calculate the speed of a car that travels 150m in 5 seconds. [2]

Mark scheme answer:

• speed = distance / time [1 mark for formula]

• speed = 150 / 5 = 30 m/s [1 mark for correct answer with unit]

Tips:

  • Look for key words that must appear in your answer
  • Note how many points are needed for each mark
  • Check if units are required for the final mark
  • Understand the difference between "state" (brief) and "explain" (detailed)
Understanding Grade Thresholds

Grade thresholds show the minimum marks needed for each grade. They vary each session based on paper difficulty — harder papers have lower thresholds.

Example Grade Thresholds (out of 100 total):

A*
90+
A
80-89
B
70-79
C
60-69

* Actual thresholds vary by subject and session

How to use thresholds:

  • Set realistic target marks based on your goal grade
  • Track your practice paper scores against thresholds
  • Remember: you don't need 100% for an A* — aim for consistency
  • Compare thresholds across sessions to gauge difficulty trends
How is the topic breakdown calculated?

The "Topics Breakdown by Paper" section above shows which syllabus topics are tested in each paper and how many marks they carry. Here's how we calculate this:

Our methodology:

  1. Extract questions: We analyze each question paper (QP) and identify individual questions and their mark allocations (shown in square brackets, e.g., [3]).
  2. Match to syllabus: Each question is matched to the official Cambridge 0606 syllabus topics based on keywords, concepts, and question content.
  3. Sum marks per topic: For each paper, we add up the marks for all questions testing the same topic. For example, if Q1 (4 marks) and Q5b (3 marks) both test "Enzymes", that topic shows as "7 marks" for that paper.

Example: If Paper 3 shows "Photosynthesis - 13 marks", it means questions worth a total of 13 marks (out of the paper's 80 marks) tested the Photosynthesis topic from the Plant Nutrition unit of the syllabus.

How to use this: Look at the paper(s) you'll be taking (e.g., Papers 2, 4, 6 for Extended tier). The topics with the highest marks in YOUR papers are where you should focus your revision. A topic worth 15 marks deserves more study time than one worth 3 marks.

Note: Our topic matching may be inaccurate for questions that span multiple topics. Use this as a guide alongside the official syllabus.

How to Use IGCSE Additional Mathematics Past Papers

📝 Timed Practice

Complete papers under exam conditions. 0606 Paper 4 is 1 hour 15 minutes - practice finishing within this time to build exam stamina.

✅ Self-Marking

Use the mark scheme to score your answers. Look for marking points you missed and understand what examiners expect in Additional Mathematics responses.

📊 Examiner Reports

Read the 0606 examiner report to see common mistakes. Focus revision on topics where candidates typically lose marks.

🎯 Grade Targets

Check grade thresholds to see how many marks you need for your target grade. An A* in IGCSE Additional Mathematics typically requires 85-90%.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I download IGCSE Additional Mathematics May-June 2023 past papers?
You can download all IGCSE Additional Mathematics (0606) May-June 2023 past papers directly from this page. We provide 14 files including question papers, mark schemes, and examiner reports for all variants (11, 12, 13). Click "View" to open in browser or "Download" to save the PDF.
Are 0606 mark schemes included?
Yes, mark schemes for all 0606 May-June 2023 papers are included. Each question paper has a corresponding mark scheme showing expected answers and mark allocation.
What papers are available for IGCSE Additional Mathematics 0606?
IGCSE Additional Mathematics (0606) has 2 papers: Paper 1 (Paper 1), Paper 2 (Paper 2). Core tier students take Papers 1, 3, 5/6. Extended tier students take Papers 2, 4, 5/6.
What is the difference between paper variants 11, 12, and 13?
The three variants (11, 12, 13) are different versions of the same paper used in different time zones to prevent cheating. All variants test the same syllabus content at the same difficulty level. You can practice with any variant as they are equally valid for revision.
How can I practice these past papers effectively?
Use our free Exam Hub to practice past papers like real exams. It lets you view question papers and mark schemes side-by-side, so you can self-mark your answers. No sign-up required, works with any PDF, and your files stay completely private.

Copyright & Educational Use

All examination materials including question papers, mark schemes, and examiner reports are the intellectual property of Cambridge Assessment International Education.

We share these materials freely for educational purposes to help students prepare for their examinations. This platform is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Cambridge International.

For official examination resources, registration, and support, please visit cambridgeinternational.org.