Mathematical Methods

Description

Mathematical Methods is a course designed for students who are able to apply more abstract ideas in Mathematics and may need Mathematical Methods for future career or study options. Students will study techniques, routines and processes involving rational and real arithmetic, algebraic manipulation, equation solving, graph sketching, differentiation and integration with and without the use of technology.

Digital technologies, including the CAS calculator, are used extensively to enhance students’ learning in each topic. Students should also be familiar with relevant algebraic approaches in simple cases.

Satisfactory completion of Units 1 and 2 Mathematical Methods is a prerequisite for this course.

Areas of Study

• Functions, relations and graphs

• Algebra, number and structure

• Calculus

• Data analysis, probability and statistics

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this unit, students should be able to:

• Define and explain key concepts as specified in the content from the areas of study, and apply a range of related mathematical routines and procedures.

• Apply mathematical processes in non-routine contexts, including situations requiring problem-solving, modelling or investigative techniques or approaches, and analysis and discuss these applications of Mathematics.

• Select and appropriately use numerical, graphical, symbolic and statistical functionalities of technology to develop mathematical ideas, produce results and carry out analysis in situations requiring problem- solving, modelling or investigative techniques or approaches.

Assessment

The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on the decision that the student has demonstrated achievement of the learning outcomes above. This decision will be based on student completion of work requirements as specified in the Work Requirements document, which is provided to students at the commencement of each unit.

The student’s level of achievement for Units 3 and 4 will be determined by school-assessed coursework tasks and two end-of-year examinations as follows:

• Unit 3 School-assessed coursework

• Unit 4 School-assessed coursework of final grade) of final grade)

• Semester Examination1 (1 hour Technology Free) (20% of final grade)

• Semester Examination2 (2 hours Technology Active) (40% of final grade)

Semester Examination1 assesses students’ knowledge of mathematical concepts, their skills in carrying out mathematical algorithms and their ability to apply concepts and skills in standard ways without the use of technology. Semester Examination2 assesses students’ ability to understand and communicate mathematical ideas, and to interpret, analysis and solve both routine and non-routine problems using technology.

Pathways

• TAFE & University

• Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies

• Architecture and Building

• Creative Arts

• Education

• Engineering and Related Technologies

• Food, Hospitality and Personal Services

• Health

• Information Technology

• Management and Commerce

• Mixed Field Programs

• Natural and Physical Sciences

• Society and Culture