Mathematics Extension 1 (1U)

Board Developed Course (120 hours)

Available in Years 11 and 12

The content of this course, which includes the whole of the (2 Unit) Mathematics course, is intended for students who have demonstrated a mastery of skills and achieved high results in the Pathway 5.3 Mathematics and who are interested in the study of further skills and ideas in Mathematics.

Mathematics Extension 1 is focused on enabling students to develop a thorough understanding of and competence in further aspects of mathematics. The course provides opportunities to develop rigorous mathematical arguments and proofs, and to use mathematical models more extensively.

Course description

Mathematics Extension 1 is focused on enabling students to develop a thorough understanding of and competence in further aspects of mathematics. The course provides opportunities to develop rigorous mathematical arguments and proofs, and to use mathematical models more extensively.


The Mathematics Extension 1 Year 11 course includes the Mathematics Advanced Year 11 course. The Mathematics Extension 1 Year 12 course includes the Mathematics Advanced Year 12 course.


The Mathematics Extension 2 Year 12 course includes the Mathematics Extension 1 Year 12 course, and therefore also the Mathematics Advanced Year 12 course.


All students studying the Mathematics Extension 1 course will sit for an HSC examination.


What students learn

The study of Mathematics Extension 1 in Stage 6:


  • enables students to develop thorough knowledge, understanding and skills in working mathematically and in communicating concisely and precisely

  • provides opportunities for students to develop rigorous mathematical arguments and proofs, and to use mathematical models extensively

  • provides opportunities for students to develop their awareness of the interconnected nature of mathematics, its beauty and its functionality

  • provides a basis for progression to further study in mathematics or related disciplines and in which mathematics has a vital role at tertiary level

  • provides an appropriate mathematical background for students whose future pathways may involve mathematics and its applications in such areas as science, engineering, finance and economics.

Course Structure

Year 11 course

The Mathematics Extension 1 Year 11 course content is comprised of four Topics, with the Topics divided into Subtopics.

Topic: Functions

  • Further Work with Functions

  • Polynomials

Topic: Trigonometric Functions

  • Inverse Trigonometric Functions

  • Further Trigonometric Identities

Topic: Calculus

  • Rates of Change

Topic: Combinatorics

  • Working with Combinatorics


Year 12 course

The Mathematics Extension 1 Year 12 course content includes the Topics ‘Trigonometric Functions’ and ‘Calculus’ continued from Year 11 and introduces three different Topics.

Topic: Proof

  • Proof by Mathematical Induction

Topic: Vectors

  • Introduction to Vectors

Topic: Trigonometric Functions

  • Trigonometric Equations

Topic: Calculus

  • Further Calculus Skills

  • Applications of Calculus

Topic: Statistical Analysis

  • The Binomial Distribution

See more on NESA website