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Rationale
Mathematics is a reasoning and creative activity, integral to scientific and technological advances across many fields of endeavour. The symbolic nature of mathematics provides a powerful and precise means of communication. By studying mathematics, students develop essential numeracy skills and fluency, while nurturing the ability to think logically, critically and creatively. They learn about patterns and reason about relationships, creating opportunities to generalise their solutions and to solve non-routine problems. When students enjoy learning mathematics, they develop a positive self-concept and become self-motivated learners through active participation in appropriately challenging tasks. This can enhance their resilience in solving mathematical problems relevant to further education and their everyday lives.
Years 9 and 10 (Stage 5)
The new syllabus has a Core – Paths structure. This structure is designed to encourage aspiration in students and provide the flexibility needed to enable teachers to create pathways for students working towards Stage 6. The structure is intended to extend students as far along the continuum of learning as possible and provide solid foundations for the highest levels of student achievement. The structure allows for a diverse range of endpoints up to the end of Stage 5.
All three Mathematics classes will cover the Core outcomes, with the number of and their depth of coverage dependent upon the needs of the students. The Core outcomes are designed to prepare the students to successfully undertake the Standard 2 Mathematics course in Stage 6.
The 9 MAT A class will undertake the Core – Advanced / Extension Path, designed to prepare students to undertake the Advanced and/or Extension Mathematics courses in Stage 6.
The 9 MAT C class will undertake the Core – Standard Path, designed to prepare students to undertake the Standard 2 course in Stage 6.
The 9 MAT B class will be able to take advantage of the new flexible syllabus, undertaking not just the Core – Standard Path, but where possible, and appropriate to the students’ ability, being exposed to some Core – Advanced / Extension Path outcomes as well.
Please note: As a guide for Stage 6:
Only students in the 9 MAT A class should undertake the Advanced Mathematics (2 unit) course in Stage 6. From these students, a small minority who have excelled in the Stage 5 course, and have demonstrated superior problem-solving skills and an aptitude for higher order mathematical thinking, would pursue one of the Extension courses in Stage 6.
Students in the 9 MAT B and 9 MAT C classes would look at undertaking the Standard Mathematics (2 unit) course in Stage 6, or no mathematics for their HSC.
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