Mathematics

There are three streams of Mathematics that will cater for the range of ability that students may have. They are Core Mathematics, Advanced Mathematics and Essential Mathematics. The majority of students in Year 10 will study Core Mathematics. 

Some students will be invited by the Mathematics Domain to study Advanced Mathematics. 

Other students at this level may be advised by their Year 9 Mathematics Teacher to study Essential Mathematics which is a pathway study to Foundation Mathematics in VCE.

These study options will be determined in consultation with the students and be based on students’ application to their studies, their mathematics ability, and their performance in Year 9 Mathematics test, assignments and exams.

Pathways for studies in Mathematics 

Core/Advanced Mathematics

While the curriculum content for both Core Mathematics and Advanced Mathematics cover similar topics and the same dimensions, the Advanced Mathematics class will work more quickly through the core coursework, complete topics in more depth and explore introductory topics from VCE Maths Methods and Specialist Maths. Both Core and Advanced Mathematics classes have an emphasis on the skills required for further study of VCE Maths Methods, Specialist Maths or General Mathematics. Selection into the Advanced Mathematics class is based on student CAT / NAPLAN / PAT testing results and teacher feedback.

Aim

• Demonstrate useful mathematical and numeracy skills for successful general employment and functioning in society 
• Solve practical problems with mathematics, especially industry and work-based problems 
• Develop specialist knowledge in mathematics that provides for further study in the discipline 
• Develop skills in the use technology, including computer algebra system (CAS) calculators, to support the learning of mathematics and enhance the communication of their ideas

Number and Algebra 

They solve problems involving linear equations and inequalities, quadratic equations and pairs of simultaneous linear equations and related graphs. Students substitute into formulas, find unknown values, manipulate linear algebraic expressions, expand binomial expressions and factorise monic and simple non-monic quadratic expressions, with and without the use of digital technology. They represent linear, quadratic and exponential functions numerically, graphically and algebraically. 

Measurement and Geometry 

Students solve and explain surface area and volume problems relating to composite solids. They use parallel and perpendicular lines, angle and triangle properties, similarity, trigonometry and congruence to solve practical problems and develop proofs involving lengths, angles and areas in plane shapes. 

Statistics and Probability 

Students compare univariate data sets by referring to summary statistics and the shape of their displays. They describe bivariate data where the independent variable is time and use scatter-plots generated by digital technology to investigate relationships between two continuous variables. Students evaluate the use of statistics in the media.  

Additional topics for Advanced Maths

• Introduction to Complex numbers and Vectors
• Graphing non-linear relationships including exponential, logarithmic and polynomials
• Advanced trigonometry including Sine and Cosine rules, radians, the Unit Circle and graphing trigonometric functions
• Geometric proofs and formal proof notation
• Introductory Calculus

Special conditions 

Students should retain their CAS (computer algebra system) calculator from Year 9 as it will be a key resource for their Year 10 and subsequent VCE maths studies. 

Assessment 

All students will complete CATs, topic tests, problem solving tasks, regular homework assignments and two end-of-semester exams. 

Additional 

Students will be encouraged to enter/participate in external set competitions held throughout the year. 

Essential Mathematics 

Entry into Essential Maths in Year 10 is by invitation from the school based on consideration of the students’ performance in Year 9 Maths and in consultation with the student and their parents. The course viability is subject to sufficient students accepting the offer of a place. If this subject does not run, then students will be catered for in core Year 10 Mathematics. 

Special conditions

Students are recommended to take this course based on their Year 9 Mathematics performance. This course progresses to VCE Foundation Maths Unit 1 & 2  or to General Mathematics (based on student achievement levels). 

General information

The Essential Maths course provides for the continuing development mathematical skills to support students with the mathematical content of their other subjects and build confidence in numeracy skills for life.

Essential Mathematics has a strong emphasis on using mathematics in practical contexts relating to everyday life. Students

focus on the mathematical knowledge, skills, understanding and dispositions to solve problems in real contexts for a range of workplace, personal, further learning, and community settings relevant to contemporary society. Students are encouraged to use appropriate technology in all areas of their study.

The areas of study for Essential Mathematics are:

• Algebra, number and structure, relations and graphs
• Data analysis, probability and statistics
• Space and measurement, and geometry

Assessment 

All students will complete CATs, topic tests, problem solving tasks, regular homework assignments and two end-of-semester exams.