Senior Mathematical Methods

Mathematical Methods’ major domains are Algebra, Functions, relations and their graphs, Calculus and Statistics.

Mathematical Methods enables students to see the connections between mathematics and other areas of the curriculum and apply their mathematical skills to real-world problems, becoming critical thinkers, innovators and problem-solvers.

Students learn topics that are developed systematically, with increasing levels of sophistication, complexity and connection, and build on algebra, functions and their graphs, and probability from the P-10 Australian Curriculum. Calculus is essential for developing an understanding of the physical world. The domain Statistics is used to describe and analyse phenomena involving uncertainty and variation. Both are the basis for developing effective models of the world and solving complex and abstract mathematical problems.

Students develop the ability to translate written, numerical, algebraic, symbolic and graphical information from one representation to another. They make complex use of factual knowledge to successfully formulate, represent and solve mathematical problems.

Pathways

A course of study in Mathematical Methods can establish a basis for further education and employment in the fields of natural and physical sciences (especially physics and chemistry), mathematics and science education, medical and health sciences (including human biology, biomedical science, nanoscience and forensics), engineering (including chemical, civil, electrical and mechanical engineering, avionics, communications and mining), computer science (including electronics and software design), psychology and business.

Objectives

By the conclusion of the course of study, students will:

• select, recall and use facts, rules, definitions and procedures drawn from Algebra, Functions, relations and their graphs, Calculus and Statistics
• comprehend mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from Algebra, Functions, relations and their graphs, Calculus and Statistics
• communicate using mathematical, statistical and everyday language and conventions
• evaluate the reasonableness of solutions
• justify procedures and decisions by explaining mathematical reasoning
• solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from Algebra, Functions, relations and their graphs, Calculus and Statistics.
• justify procedures and decisions by explaining mathematical reasoning
• solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from number and algebra, measurement and geometry, statistics, and networks and matrices.

Structure