Specialist Mathematics is recommended for students intending to study mathematics, science, computing or engineering based university subjects. A high level of mathematics is essential in our rapidly changing and technologically advanced world.
All students who study Specialist Units 1 and 2 must also study Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2. Students need to have satisfactorily completed Specialist Mathematics Units 1 and 2 and Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2 prior to studying Specialist Mathematics Units 3 and 4.
Students in this course must have an approved CAS calculator.
Students study techniques in the simplification and solution of a range of algebraic expressions and equations, graphing techniques, matrices and transformations of linear and non-linear relations and complex numbers. Students use CAS calculators to explore skills and concepts as well as practising skills without using technology.
KEY SKILLS REQUIRED
Mathematical skills and understanding, graphing calculator technology, application of mathematical skills and knowledge.
ASSESSED TASKS
Topic tests, application tasks and a mid-year written examination.
Students extend their knowledge of geometry, apply their understanding from Unit 1 to develop techniques in working with vectors, kinematics and explore simulation and sampling techniques in statistics.
Students use CAS calculators to explore skills and concepts as well as practising skills without using technology.
KEY SKILLS REQUIRED
Mathematical skills and understanding, CAS calculator technology, application of mathematical skills and knowledge.
ASSESSED TASKS
Topic tests, application tasks and end of semester written examination.
Students will study vectors, complex numbers, coordinate geometry, trigonometry and calculus.
KEY SKILLS REQUIRED
High level mathematical skills and understanding is required. A large bank of key skills and knowledge from studying Unit 1 & 2 Maths Methods is assumed. Students are expected to be able to apply techniques, routines and processes related to the areas of study with and without the use of technology.
ASSESSED TASKS
Two school assessed analysis tasks.
Students will study calculus techniques and applications, particularly integral calculus. This leads to the study of the mathematics of movement and motion, with topics include differential equations, kinematics, vector calculus, statics and dynamics. The study of probability and statistics includes statistical inference related to the definition and distribution sample means, simulations and confidence intervals.
KEY SKILLS REQUIRED
High level mathematical skills and understanding is required. A large bank of key skills and knowledge from studying Specialist Mathematics Units 1 and 2 and Maths Methods Units 1 and 2 is assumed. Students are expected to be able to apply techniques, routines and processes related to the areas of study with and without the use of technology.
ASSESSED TASKS
Application SAC, topic test SACs and two end of year written examinations.
VCAA ASSESSMENT – The overall Study Score will consist of:
School Assessed Coursework (40%), 1 hour written examination (technology free) in November
(20%), and 2 hours written examination (technology active) in November (40%).
Selection advice
What kind of learner is best suited to study this subject?
Someone who enjoy being challenged and extended. Solving difficult problems. Patient and dedicated.
What key skills are required for success?
Critical thinking, dedication to revise regularly, organised to stay on top of the homework
What are three most engaging topics studied?
It’s difficult to choose just 3, every student seems to have a difference preference.
What are the learning activities in this subject like?
Problem solving tasks, analysis task/investigation, puzzles/quizzes/games
What advice would you give to a student about to embark on this subject?
Ensure you are confident with the algebra skills developed in year 10. These are assumed knowledge and you will need to be very proficient with using all strategies to solve challenging equations.
