Mathematics Applications is designed for those students who want to extend their mathematical skills beyond Year 10 level but whose future studies or employment pathways do not require knowledge of calculus. The subject is designed for students who have a wide range of educational and employment aspirations, including continuing their studies at university or TAFE.
Consumer arithmetic reviews the concepts of rates and percentages in the context of managing money and provides a context for the use of spreadsheets. It includes budgeting, tax, sharemarkets, discounts, profit and interest calculations. Algebra and Matrices continues the Years 7–10 study of algebra and introduces the new topic of matrices. The emphasis of this topic is the symbolic representation and manipulation of information from real-life contexts using algebra and matrices. Shape and Measurement extends the knowledge and skills students developed in the Years 7–10 curriculum with the concept of similarity and associated calculations involving simple and compound geometric shapes. The emphasis in this topic is on applying these skills in a range of practical contexts, including those involving three-dimensional shapes.
Univariate Data Analysis and the Statistical Investigation Process develops students’ ability to organise and summarise univariate data in the context of conducting a statistical investigation. Applications of Trigonometry extends students knowledge of trigonometry to solve practical problems involving non-right-angled triangles in both two and three dimensions, including problems involving the use of angles of elevation and depression and bearings in navigation. Linear Equations and Their Graphs uses linear equations and straight-line graphs, as well as linear-piece-wise and step graphs, to model and analyse practical situations.
Students respond using knowledge of mathematical facts, concepts and terminology, applying problem-solving skills and algorithms.
Response tasks can include: tests, assignments, quizzes and observation checklists. Tests are administered under controlled and timed conditions.
Students plan, research, conduct and communicate the findings of an investigation. They can investigate problems to identify the underlying mathematics, or select, adapt and apply models and procedures to solve problems. This assessment type provides for the assessment of general inquiry skills, course-related knowledge and skills, and modeling skills.
Students apply mathematical understanding and skills to analyse, interpret and respond to questions and situations. Examinations provide for the assessment of conceptual understandings, knowledge of mathematical facts and terminology, problem-solving skills, and the use of algorithms.
Bivariate Data Analysis introduces students to some methods for identifying, analysing and describing associations between pairs of variables, including using the least-squares method as a tool for modeling and analysing linear associations. The content is to be taught within the framework of the statistical investigation process.
Growth and Decay in Sequences employs recursion to generate sequences that can be used to model and investigate patterns of growth and decay in discrete situations. These sequences find application in a wide range of practical situations, including modelling the growth of a compound interest investment, the growth of a bacterial population, or the decrease in the value of a car over time. Sequences are also essential to understanding the patterns of growth and decay in loans and investments that are studied in detail in Unit 4.
Graphs and Networks introduces students to the language of graphs and the way in which graphs, represented as a collection of points and interconnecting lines, can be used to analyse everyday situations, such as a rail or social network.
Time Series Analysis continues students’ study of statistics by introducing them to the concepts and techniques of time series analysis. The content is to be taught within the framework of the statistical investigation process. Loans, Investments and Annuities aims to provide students with sufficient knowledge of financial mathematics to solve practical problems associated with taking out or refinancing a mortgage and making investments. Networks and Decision Mathematics uses networks to model and aid decision making in practical situations.
Students respond using knowledge of mathematical facts, concepts and terminology, applying problem-solving skills and algorithms.
Response tasks can include: tests, assignments, quizzes and observation checklists. Tests are administered under controlled and timed conditions.
Students plan, research, conduct and communicate the findings of an investigation. They can investigate problems to identify the underlying mathematics, or select, adapt and apply models and procedures to solve problems. This assessment type provides for the assessment of general inquiry skills, course-related knowledge and skills, and modeling skills.
Students apply mathematical understanding and skills to analyse, interpret and respond to questions and situations. Examinations provide for the assessment of conceptual understandings, knowledge of mathematical facts and terminology, problem-solving skills, and the use of algorithms.
