Maths Senior

Mathematics Senior

Course Description:

The course is intended to give students who have demonstrated general competence in the skills of Stage 5 Mathematics, an understanding of and competence in some further aspects of mathematics, which are applicable to the real world. It has general educational merit and is also useful for concurrent studies in science and commerce. The course is a sufficient basis for further studies in mathematics as a minor discipline at tertiary level in support of courses such as the life sciences or commerce. Students who require substantial mathematics at a tertiary level, supporting the physical sciences, computer science or engineering, should undertake the Mathematics Extension 1 course or Mathematics Extension 2 course.

 

Maths Junior

Mathematics Junior

Course Description:

Mathematics involves the study of patterns and relationships and provides a powerful and concise means of communication. All people need to be numerate – that is, to be able to calculate, measure and estimate in a variety of situations, both theoretical and practical.

There are three levels of study in Mathematics in Years 9 and 10 – Advanced, Intermediate and Standard.

Advanced is for the most able mathematics students. It is the most algebraic of the three courses. Students who complete the Advanced course with a high level of achievement may choose to study Mathematics (2 Unit) and Mathematics Extension 1 in Years 11 and 12. A student may also choose to do General Mathematics in Years 11 and 12.

Intermediate is for students who consider themselves average in Mathematics. It is less algebraic than Advanced. Students who complete the Intermediate course at an outstanding level of achievement may consider attempting Mathematics (2U) in Years 11 and 12. However, most students doing Intermediate will proceed to General Mathematics in Years 11 and 12.

Standard is for the less able mathematics student. There is little algebra in the course and is based on practical and real-life problems. Students who complete the standard course will proceed to General Mathematics in Years 11 and 12.

Students will be advised by the Head Teacher in consultation with the classroom teachers on which level she feels is most appropriate for them. It is recommended that students choose a level that is appropriate for their needs and ability level.

There is a degree of common work between courses, especially in the Advanced and Intermediate courses. There is flexibility for students to move between courses, particularly in Year 9.

Students must have their own scientific calculator, regardless of their course level. Texts will be loaned as required by the Mathematics Department.

All School Certificate Assessment for this course will take place in Year 10. However, all knowledge and skills gained in Year 9 will be examinable in the external tests at the end of Year 10.

General Mathematics

General Mathematics

Course Description:

General Mathematics focuses on mathematical skills and techniques, which have direct application to everyday activity. The course content is written in five areas of study, with an emphasis on application of specific skills and on tasks that involve integrating mathematical skills and techniques across a range of familiar and unfamiliar situations. These tasks may draw from more than one area of study, and encourage transfer of knowledge across the entire course, as well as linking with study in other Stage 6 subjects.

The course is fully prescribed, and is designed to support TAFE and other vocational courses. It provides an appropriate mathematical background for students who do not wish to pursue the formal study of mathematics at tertiary level, while giving a strong foundation for university study in the areas of business, humanities, nursing and paramedical sciences.

Extention Mathematics

Extension Mathematics

Course Description:

The content of this course, which includes the whole of the Mathematics course, and its depth of treatment, indicate that it is intended for students who have demonstrated a mastery of the skills of Stage 5 Mathematics and who are interested in the study of further skills and ideas in mathematics. The course is intended to give these students a thorough understanding of and competence in aspects of mathematics, including many which are applicable to the real world. It has general educational merit and is also useful for concurrent studies of science, industrial arts and commerce. The course is a recommended minimum basis for further studies in mathematics as a major discipline at a tertiary level and for the study of mathematics in support of the physical and engineering sciences. Although the Mathematics Extension 1 course is sufficient for these purposes, students of outstanding mathematical ability should consider undertaking the Mathematics Extension 2 course.