Mathematical Methods Units 1–4 provide for the study of functions, transformations and combinations of these functions, algebra, calculus, probability and statistics, and their applications in a variety of practical and theoretical contexts. They also provide background for further study in, for example, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), humanities, economics and medicine.
Students will study simple algebraic functions in relation to the following areas of study: Functions and Graphs, Algebra, Rates of Change, and Probability and Counting Methods. Students use CAS calculators to explore skills and concepts as well as practising skills without using technology.
KEY SKILLS REQUIRED
Well-developed mathematical skills and understanding, graphing calculator (CAS) technology.
Ability to apply mathematical skills and knowledge to solve application problems.
ASSESSED TASKS
Topic tests, application task and a mid-year examination.
In this unit, students will focus on the following areas of study: circular, exponential and logarithmic functions and graphs, algebra, Differentiation and Integration. Students use CAS calculators to explore skills and concepts as well as practising skills without using technology.
KEY SKILLS REQUIRED
Well-developed mathematical skills and understanding, graphing calculator (CAS) technology.
Ability to apply mathematical skills and knowledge to solve application problems.
ASSESSED TASKS
Topic tests, application task and two end of semester written examinations.
The focus of this unit will be a selection of content that would typically include Functions and Graphs, Algebra and applications of derivatives and differentiation. This also includes identifying and analysing key features of functions and their graphs with Calculus as a focal point. 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 and application task.
Students will continue to study Algebra and Functions and Graphs as well as Calculus including anti-differentiation, integration, the relationship between integration and the area of regions specied by lines or curves with a focus on real world applications of Calculus. Students will also study random variables and discrete and continuous probability distributions and the distribution of sample proportions. 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
Two analysis tasks and two end of year written examinations.
VCAA ASSESSMENT – The overall Study Score will consist of:
School Assessed Coursework (40%), 1-hour written Examination 1 (technology free) in
November (20%), 2-hour written Examination 2 (technology active) in November (40%).
Selection advcie
What kind of learner is best suited to study this subject?
Open minded, Technology savvy, problem solver, critical thinker
What key skills are required for success?
Students with a strong understanding of Algebra, expression of ideas verbally, acceptance of and asking for assistance, ready to learn from mistakes
What are the learning activities in this subject like?
Problem solving, assessment tasks, group work, team work, collaborative learning, class discussions
What advice would you give to a student about to embark on this subject?
You must be prepared to work hard and understand that there is quite a lot of critical thinking involved. The language of Mathematics in this subject and it’s connection to concepts can be quite difficult if you have struggled with Mathematics and especially Algebra to date.
Studies in VCE Mathematical Methods can lead to study and career options in the following areas:
Accountant
Auditor
Bank officer
Business analyst
Company secretary
Corporate treasurer
Diplomat
Financial advisor
Financial journalist
Financial planner/Manager
Human resource developer
Investment analyst
Management consultant
Marketing officer
Market researcher
Portfolio manager
Project manager
Statistician
Stockbroker
Tax agent
Teacher
Trade analyst
University lecturer
Valuer
