Specialist Mathematics

Unit 1-2

Entry

As a prerequisite for entry into VCE Specialist Mathematics Units 1 and 2, students must have completed Pre Math Methods to a high standard. Students also require a respective subject recommendation from their Pre Math Methods teacher. VCE Specialist Mathematics Units 1 and 2 must be taken in conjunction with VCE Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2 unless the student has previously completed that course.

Subject Overview

Specialist Mathematics Units 1 and 2 provide a course of study for students who wish to undertake an in-depth study of mathematics, with an emphasis on concepts, skills and processes related to mathematical structure, modelling, problem-solving and reasoning. This study has an interest in the discipline of mathematics in its own right and investigation of a broad range of applications, as well as development of a sound background for further studies in mathematics and mathematics-related fields.

Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2 and Specialist Mathematics Units 1 and 2, taken in conjunction, provide a comprehensive preparation for Specialist Mathematics Units 3 and 4.

The areas of study for Units 1 and 2 of Specialist Mathematics are ‘Algebra and structure’, ‘Arithmetic and number’, ‘Discrete mathematics’, ‘Geometry, measurement and trigonometry’, ‘Graphs of linear and non-linear relations’ and ‘Statistics’.

In undertaking these units, students are expected to be able to apply techniques, routines and processes involving rational, real and complex arithmetic, sets, lists and tables, diagrams and geometric constructions, algebraic manipulation, equations and graphs - with and without the use of technology. They should have facility with relevant mental and by-hand approaches to estimation and computation. The use of numerical, graphical, geometric, symbolic and statistical functionality of technology for teaching and learning mathematics, for working mathematically, and in related assessment, is to be incorporated throughout each unit as applicable.

Assessment

Satisfactory completion:

The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on whether the student has demonstrated the set of three outcomes specified and whether the student has met the minimum coursework requirement for each unit. Teachers use a variety of learning activities and assessment tasks that provide a range of opportunities for students to demonstrate the key knowledge and key skills in the outcomes. Students must also meet the TC VCE minimum attendance requirement of 90 per cent for each unit.

Assessment tasks include components to be completed with and without the use of technology as applicable to the outcomes.

Outcome 1:

On completion of this unit, the student 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. To achieve this outcome, the student will draw on knowledge and skills outlined in all the areas of study.

Demonstration of achievement of Outcome 1 should be based on the student's performance on a selection of the following assessment tasks:

  • Assignments

  • Tests

  • Summary or review notes

Outcome 2:

On completion of this unit, the student should be able to apply mathematical processes in non-routine contexts, including situations requiring problem-solving, modelling or investigative techniques or approaches, and analyse and discuss these applications of mathematics. To achieve this outcome, the student will draw on knowledge and skills outlined in one or more areas of study.

Demonstration of achievement of Outcome 2 should be based on the student's performance on a selection of the following assessment tasks:

  • Modelling tasks

  • Problem-solving tasks

  • Mathematical investigations

Outcome 3:

On completion of this unit, the student should be able to 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.

To achieve this outcome, the student will draw on knowledge and skills outlined in all the areas of study.

Demonstration of achievement of Outcome 3 should be based on the student’s performance on aspects of tasks completed in demonstrating achievement of Outcomes 1 and 2 that incorporate opportunity for the effective and appropriate use of technology.

Learning activities

Textbook and worksheet exercises, classroom-based exercises, online revision activities, application tasks

Key skills required

Mathematical skills and understanding, graphing calculator (CAS) technology, application of mathematical skills and knowledge.