Maths Department Update
In 2025, the THS Mathematics Department introduced the new Victorian Curriculum 2.0 for Years 7 to 10. While there have been many changes to the curriculum, the most significant is a stronger emphasis on mathematical modelling and reasoning.
We have placed a particular focus on the importance of ‘attention to detail’ when students complete their coursework. For each topic, we have identified five key attention-to-detail skills to help students build a strong foundation for senior school mathematics. Focusing on these skills helps improve accuracy, reduce errors, and foster a deeper understanding of concepts.
THS mathematics students have been blending their regular classwork with engaging lesson starter activities, progress quizzes, weekly homework tasks, and online learning platforms. In Years 7 and 8, students have been using Mangahigh, which offers game-based learning and adaptive quizzes. In Years 9 and 10, students have been using Mathspace to complete weekly homework and extension tasks. These tasks not only develop numeracy skills but also provide immediate feedback, additional support, and video tutorials to assist learning.
Maths Club has continued to provide students from Years 7 to 12 with a welcoming space to seek assistance from teachers and our tutor. Held twice a week during lunch, the club has been consistently attended by students, some looking for extra help, others simply using the space to study.
I recently spoke with two students: one from Year 7, settling into their first year of secondary school maths, and one from Year 12, who is close to finishing after completing three VCE mathematics subjects.
Asha George – 7B
What have you enjoyed most in maths in 2025?
“I’d say all of the Blookets, fun end-of-term projects, and silly whole-class maths games we do. They might seem unnecessary, but they help me remember and understand certain topics.”
What have you found most challenging about secondary school maths?
“All of the new, unfamiliar topics like algebra, number properties, that sort of thing.”
What is the most interesting thing you’ve learnt this year in maths?
“Probably statistics, surprisingly. It was quite fun drawing and colouring graphs. I also think knowing statistics is a valuable skill, especially if I, or other students, want a job involving them when they are older.”
Georgio Rizk – Year 12
What have you enjoyed most about Year 12 maths, and why did you complete three maths subjects in VCE? “I completed three VCE maths subjects because I’ve always been good with numbers and problem-solving. I’ve most enjoyed the flexibility of Year 12 maths classes, where it’s up to you to complete the work.”
In your time at THS (Years 7 to 10), what did you enjoy most about maths, and what advice would you give your Year 7 self? “I’ve enjoyed the teachers I’ve had since Year 7 and the support they’ve given me over the years. My advice would be: don’t do the coursework just to complete it, do it to better understand the concepts behind the topic you’re studying.”
All students are to be commended for their dedication to mathematics so far in 2025. A special thank you also goes to our mathematics teachers, who work tirelessly to deliver engaging and supportive lessons for our students.
Samuel McDowell
Head of Mathematics