Senior Specialist Mathematics

Specialist Mathematics’ major domains are Vectors and matrices, Real and complex numbers, Trigonometry, Statistics and Calculus.

Specialist Mathematics is designed for students who develop confidence in their mathematical knowledge and ability, and gain a positive view of themselves as mathematics learners. They will gain an appreciation of the true nature of mathematics, its beauty and its power.

Students learn topics that 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.

Student learning experiences range from practising essential mathematical routines to developing procedural fluency, through to investigating scenarios, modelling the real world, solving problems and explaining reasoning.

Pathways

A course of study in Specialist Mathematics can establish a basis for further education and employment in the fields of science, all branches of mathematics and statistics, computer science, medicine, engineering, finance and economics.

Objectives

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

• select, recall and use facts, rules, definitions and procedures drawn from Vectors and matrices, Real and complex numbers, Trigonometry, Statistics and Calculus
• comprehend mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from Vectors and matrices, Real and complex numbers, Trigonometry, Statistics and Calculus
• communicate using mathematical, statistical and everyday language and conventions
• evaluate the reasonableness of solutions
• justify procedures and decisions, and prove propositions by explaining mathematical reasoning
• solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from Vectors and matrices, Real and complex numbers, Trigonometry, Statistics and Calculus.

Structure