Mathematics

General Mathematics is designed for students who want to extend their mathematical skills beyond Year 10 but whose future studies or employment pathways do not require calculus. 

It will allow students to enter university and study courses in Business, Law, Humanities, Arts, Applied Science, Journalism, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Nursing, Psychology, Architecture, Social Work or Education. 

Students will study topics such as Consumer Arithmetic, Algebra, Matrices, Univariate and Bivariate Data as well as Graphs, Networks and Decision Mathematics. 

General Maths incorporates a practical approach that equips students for their needs as future citizens. Students will learn to ask appropriate questions, map out pathways, reason about complex solutions, set up models and communicate in different forms. 

Students who study General Maths gain mathematical skills and self-assurance, when they understand the content and when they evaluate their success by using and transferring their knowledge, they develop a mathematical mindset. They will experience the relevance of mathematics to their daily lives, communities and cultural backgrounds. They will develop the ability to understand, analyse and take action regarding social issues in their world. 

What is the difference between the Maths Methods and Specialist Maths and General Maths? 

Both Math Methods and Specialist Maths have a strong Algebra and Calculus focus.  General Maths involves the use of some algebraic techniques but the reliance on this is not as involved as for the other two subjects.  

Can I study Maths Methods if I have studied General Maths in Year 10? 

The concepts covered in General Maths in Year 10 do not go into enough depth for the study of Maths Methods in Yr 11.  Further study to “catch up” on these concepts would be required in order to be fully prepared for Maths Methods. 

Will I be ok with this subject if I have difficulty with Algebra? 

If you have difficulty with any Algebraic concepts, you will find Maths Methods difficult.  You would be needing to do much more work in order to understand and this could impact on your other subject choices. 

For more information about Mathematical Methods, please refer to the Year 10 Subject Guide (PDF, 4MB) or Year 11 & 12 Subject Guide (PDF, 3.3MB) or contact the Head of Department. 

What is this subject about?  

The major domains of mathematical knowledge in Specialist Mathematics are Vectors and matrices, Real and complex numbers, Trigonometry, Statistics and Calculus. Topics are developed systematically, with increasing levels of sophistication, complexity and connection, building on functions, calculus, statistics from Mathematical Methods, while vectors, complex numbers and matrices are introduced. Functions and calculus are essential for creating models of the physical world. Statistics are used to describe and analyse phenomena involving probability, uncertainty and variation. Matrices, complex numbers and vectors are essential tools for explaining abstract or complex relationships that occur in scientific and technological endeavours.  

Who is this subject best suited to? 

If you are planning on doing any of the following courses at University: 

Note (Important): Universities do not list specialist maths as a prerequisite for any course, this is because some schools (especially rural schools) don’t offer specialist maths. If you do not do specialist maths at school you will be expected to complete the University equivalent of specialist maths in your first semester, instead of doing it over four semesters at school. So be smart and do specialist maths at school. 

What assumed knowledge or subject results is recommended from Year 10 to be successful in this subject?  

At least a B in year 10 maths (extension) 

Are there any compatible subjects that would be beneficial to also study with this subject? 

You must also do Mathematical Methods if you are doing specialist maths. 

Are there any excursions or any costs for this subject?  

No.

What is this subject about?  

Essential Mathematics is centred around everyday real-world Maths problems. This subject enables students to develop the skills and understanding to solve problems in real contexts with a focus around workplace, personal and community settings.  

 

Essential Mathematics offers students the opportunity to prepare for post-school options of employment and further training. Students will learn how to perform calculations involving time, data interpretation, salary and wages, taxes, loans and interest rates (which includes budgeting), and the application of measurement and scale diagrams.  

Who is this subject best suited to? 

This subject is suitable for students who do not require maths for tertiary education at University or have not been able to attain a pass in Year 10 Core Maths. Students who are successful in Essential maths will meet the numeracy requirements for the QCE and up to four QCE credits. 

What are some common career pathways that are associated with this subject? 

Direct entry into the workforce after high school, Trades or TAFE Courses. Essential math is an applied subject and may contribute to ATAR when combined with 4 General subjects. 

What will help me to be successful in this course?  

Time management and the completion of assigned work during class time. 

What specific skills would benefit me in this subject? 

Confidence using a Scientific Calculator 

Report-writing skills 

Are there any compatible subjects that would be beneficial to also study with this subject? 

Not necessarily, but often students who study Essential Mathematics choose to study Essential English.  

How will I be assessed? 

Students will be assessed through in-class exams and two PSMTs (Problem Solving and Modelling Tasks). PSMTs are similar to assignments, however students are expected to complete the task as a written report with an explicit focus in the following areas: formulate, solve, evaluate and verify, and communication. Across Year 11 and 12, the subject is broken up into four units. Each unit involves an exam and a PSMT. Units 1 and 2 are formative, while Units 3 and 4 are summative. 

Are there any excursions or extra costs for this subject?  

Students are expected to purchase their own Scientific Calculator, as per school stationery list. There are no excursions. 

For more information about Essential Mathematics (Applied), please refer to the Year 10 Subject Guide (PDF, 4MB) or Year 11 & 12 Subject Guide (PDF, 3.3MB) or contact the Head of Department.