Mathematics

Welcome to Term 2! We’re looking forward to another term of strong mathematical learning across all year levels. It has been encouraging to see students build on their foundational knowledge from Term 1, and we’re excited about the upcoming topics and enrichment opportunities available to students this term.

Maths Club – Thursdays at Lunchtime

Maths Club continues to run every Thursday lunchtime at both campuses. This remains a valuable opportunity for students to receive extra support, complete classwork, revise, or work on problem-solving in a relaxed and supportive space. We welcome all students from Year 7–12 to attend, whether they need assistance or simply enjoy maths.

Online Resources – Supporting Independent Learning

We remind students and families that there are excellent online resources available via our assigned textbooks from Year 8 to Year 12.

• For Year 8, Year 8 SEAL, Year 9, and Units 1–4 General Maths: Resources can be accessed through edrolo.com.au, which includes videos, worked examples, interactive questions, and revision tasks.
• For Year 9 SEAL, all Year 10 Maths subjects, and Units 1–4 Mathematical Methods: Students should log in via Campion MyConnect and select “Interactive Resources” (not “Open Book”) to access their textbook’s companion materials. These include worked solutions, instructional videos, and additional practice.

These platforms are a great way for students to review what has been taught in class, catch up on missed lessons, or deepen their understanding of key skills and concepts.

Revision and Retrieval Practice – A Key to Success in Mathematics

One of the most effective ways to improve in mathematics is through regular revision and retrieval practice. Retrieval practice strengthens memory and improves long-term retention of concepts. Here are some simple ways students can implement this at home:

• Use flashcards or apps like Quizlet to practise key terms and formulas
• Re-do questions from past lessons without looking at your notes first
• Use Education Perfect at year 7-9 to complete quizzes or attempt problems again
• Practise explaining a concept out loud or teaching it to a family member
• Keep a 'retrieval notebook' where you regularly review and solve problems from past weeks

Setting aside even 10–15 minutes a few times a week for retrieval practice can have a big impact over time.

Mathematics in the Classroom – What We're Learning This Term

Our students are working on a variety of engaging and challenging mathematical concepts this term.  Here’s a quick overview of what each year level is exploring:

• Year 7 – Number properties and graphing
• Year 7 SEAL – Fractions, decimals and percentages
• Year 8 – Wrapping up fractions, decimals and percentages; moving into algebra
• Year 8 SEAL – Completing a statistical investigation; starting algebra soon
• Year 9 – Transitioning from finance and indices into algebra and equations
• Year 9 SEAL – Beginning probability and statistics after finishing algebra, measurement and surds
• Year 10 General and Foundation – Exploring financial mathematics
• Year 10 Methods – Working through measurement and surds
• Year 10 Extension – Investigating vectors
• Year 11 General – Deepening their understanding of data analysis
• Year 11 Methods – Studying polynomial graphs and algebra
• Year 12 General – Moving into finance and recursion after having just completed the data analysis application task
• Year 12 Methods & Specialist – Preparing for their first SAC in Unit 3, covering a broad range of topics

Melbourne University Micro Mathematicians Program – Apply Now!!

Applications are now open for the Melbourne University Micro Mathematicians program, which will run during the Term 2 holidays. Applications Close 11th June. 

This program is a fantastic enrichment opportunity for mathematically curious students. Earlier this year, our Year 8 and 9 SEAL classes thoroughly enjoyed participating in a session delivered at our school. We encourage interested students to apply – more information can be found via the University of Melbourne website https://ms.unimelb.edu.au/engage/outreach/micro-mathematicians/upcoming-workshops 

Problem Solving Challenges

Here are some challenges for students looking to extend their thinking. Have a go and discuss your strategies with a friend or teacher!

Years 7–8: A triangle has angles in the ratio 3:4:5. What are the sizes of the three angles?

Years 9–10: Amara invests $1,200 in a savings account that earns 3.5% interest per annum, compounded annually. How much money will she have in the account after 3 years? (Round to the nearest cent.)

Years 11–12: The graph of the function f(X)=log(x-1)+2 is translated 1 unit left and 3 units down. Write the equation of the new function.

Looking Ahead

As the weather cools down, it’s a great time to stay warm indoors and strengthen maths skills. We’re proud of the progress students have made so far and look forward to a term filled with growth, confidence, and achievement in maths.

As always, if you have any questions about your child’s learning or would like to know how to support them at home, don’t hesitate to reach out to their maths teacher or myself.

Happy calculating!

Laura Suckling and The Mathematics Team