Pre VCE Mathematical Methods

Year long

This course is aimed at students preparing to undertake the VCE sequence containing Units 1 through to 4 of Mathematical Methods and/or Specialist Maths Units 3 and 4.

Areas of study for year 10 Pre-VCE Math Methods are, Number and Algebra, Measurement and Geometry and Statistics and Probability. 

In undertaking this course students are expected to be able to apply technology, routines and processes involving rational and real arithmetic, sets, lists and tables, diagrams and geometry, algebraic manipulation, equation-solving and graph-sketching of linear and nonlinear relations and probability. It has a lot of Algebra content that is required for VCE Mathematical Methods and VCE Specialist Maths. Students will aim to master specified skills with and without the use of technology.

This unit is ideal for those students who are capable or very capable with their Maths but not sure what subjects or further study they want to do yet or for those who know they need Mathematical Methods for further study (e.g. Electrician, Engineering, Medical Sciences, Nursing, Science, Teaching, Computer Programming & IT Design).

Required skills for Entry:

It is a VERY challenging course, and students are required to ensure that they have demonstrated the ability to attempt the subject by achieving Number and Algebra Pathways mastery level greater than or equal to 8.

A teacher recommendation is also required due to the heavy workload required. You will need to demonstrate the maturity required to maintain a consistently high workload.

Knowledge of the following skills is assumed:

  • Simplifying linear algebraic expressions

  • Determining the equation of a straight line given two points on the line

  • Determining the gradient of a line

  • Pythagoras’ Theorem applied to right-angled triangles

  • Index notation and index laws

Familiarity with the following is preferred:

  • Binomial expressions

  • Linear Graphs

  • Probability

Assessments

Students in this unit will be expected to sit regular assessments including Mini Test for subtopics and End of topic tests. At TC, students have access to Pre-learning videos and questions and are expected to do the pre-learning before they attend the lesson for a topic. The instruction in this unit is delivered with a mindset of high expectation from all students to help them achieve their best and prepare them for their VCE Units.

For this course, it is recommended that students purchase the Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CAS calculator to get them comfortable with it and prepared for it use in VCE.