Mathematics
NESA has recently released an additional pathway for students to study Mathematics in Stage 5. This pathway was created out of a need to support all students with their journey to develop mathematical competencies irrespective of their current understanding.
At Mater Dei Catholic College, we share the same values with regard for the development of every individual student and therefore have invested in the planning, development and implementation of the STEM Pathway Program. In 2022, students studying the 5.1 pathway in Years 9 and Year 10 will be participating in the course.
The purpose of the STEM Pathway Program is to:
- Provide mathematical learning opportunities in context
- Develop the core mathematical skills
- Prepare students with the necessary skills for them to be productive citizens
- Increase student confidence in Mathematics
Much of the course is designed with the idea of embedding mathematical concepts into Project Based Learning. Some of the projects that the students will be undertaking are:
MATHS PATHWAYS
The 2022 school year has started very positively for the newest members of the Mater Dei community, particularly our Year 7 students. I would like to take this opportunity to welcome them, our new parents/carers, as well as welcoming back those who already have children at the College.
During this week, students have been shown a variety of important aspects of how they will be encountering Mathematics. More specifically, this has included:
Below is a brief outline of what some of the students have been up to recently with their Mathematical learning:
DIAGNOSTICS
The first and most important aspect of Maths Pathway is for students to complete diagnostics. This allows teachers to build a detailed picture of exactly what the students know or are yet to learn. Diagnostics also ensure that the work that the students are set is challenging, yet achievable.
MODULES
Modules are the set activities that students complete during their fortnightly learning cycles. Students are set 6 modules to complete every two weeks, however, are encouraged to complete more if they are able. The modules that students are working on are determined by the level of understanding shown in their diagnostics.
WORKBOOKS
Students will have two books that they will bring with them each lesson.
Book 1- Workbook:
Students use this book to write down the questions and fully worked solutions.
Book 2- Learning Log Book
This is the place for students to place their notes from each of the modules. It may include formulas, definitions, diagrams, worked examples and tips and tricks that the students have learnt.
PARENTS/CARERS DASHBOARD
Parents/carers will have full access to all of the work that their child completes using the Maths Pathway program. In the coming week, all parents/carers should receive a handout from their child which details how to log into the program. Once parents are logged in, click the Parents and Carers button to access the Parents and Carers Portal.
The features include a:
- detailed list of all of the modules that have been completed
- snapshot of their progress during their recent test cycle which includes the key indicators of growth, effort and accuracy
- Curriculum Grid, which shows the students current understanding of the mathematical content in the curriculum
We thank you for your continued support, and if you have any questions I would recommend that you make contact with your child’s classroom teacher via email.
Mr Kurt McPherson | KLA Leader of Mathematics