The study of mathematics is mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10.
By studying mathematics, students learn to work mathematically – developing fluency, understanding, problem-solving, reasoning and communication skills.
The syllabus consists of the following strands:
- number and algebra
- measurement and geometry
- statistics and probability.
In Year 11 and 12, the study of mathematics is optional. Courses offered include:
- Mathematics Extension 2 (Year 12 only)
- Mathematics Extension 1
- Mathematics Advanced
- Mathematics Standard 2
- Mathematics Standard 1 (Optional HSC examination)
- Mathematics Life Skills.
Year 7 to 10
Mathematics is used to identify, describe and apply patterns and relationships. It provides a precise means of communication and is a powerful tool for solving problems both within and beyond mathematics. In addition to its practical applications, the study of mathematics is a valuable pursuit in its own right, providing opportunities for originality, challenge and leisure.
Year 9 to Year 10
The arrangement of content in stage 5 acknowledges the wide range of achievement of students in mathematics as they enter the last two years of their compulsory years of schooling. Stage 5.1 content is designed to meet the needs of students who should achieve stage 4 outcomes during year 9 or year 10. stage 5.2 content builds on and includes the content of stage 5.1 and is designed for students who have achieved stage 4 content generally by the end of year 8 or early in year 9. Stage 5.3 content includes the content for 5.1 and 5.2 and is designed for students who have achieved some stage 5 outcomes, probably before the end of year 8.Although the syllabus arranges the content in stages, it is written with the flexibility to enable students to work at different stages in different content areas.
Classroom teachers will determine what content will be presented to the classes. This will be determined by the students' previous learning and by the class' ability to grasp additional content.
Year 11 mathematics - general
General mathematics is designed to promote the development of skills, knowledge and understanding in areas of mathematics that have direct application to the broad range of human activity. Students will learn to use a range of techniques and tools to develop solutions to a wide variety of problems related to their present and future needs and aspirations.
Year 11 and 12 mathematics
Specific objectives of the course are:
- To give an understanding of important mathematical ideas such as variable, function, limit and to introduce students to mathematical techniques which are relevant to the real world.
- To understand the need to prove results, to appreciate the role of deductive reasoning in establishing such proofs, and to develop the ability to construct these proofs.
- To enhance those mathematical skills required for further studies in mathematics, the physical sciences and the technological sciences.
The aims of mathematics education will be achieved in different levels in the K–12 range according to the stages of development of the students at these levels. These aims are to develop in student’s confidence and enjoyment in doing mathematical activities, knowledge, skills and understandings in certain specified areas, and awareness of the place of mathematics in solving problems of everyday life and in contributing to the development of our society.