Specialist Mathematics

Unit 1 & 2 Specialist Mathematics 2026

Specialist Mathematics Units 1 & 2 has been designed to complement Mathematical Methods Units 1 & 2 by covering additional topics and others in greater detail, as well as preparing students for the study of Specialist Mathematics Units 3 & 4.

Semester 1 - The sequence of topics are:

Algebra I, chapter 1 (Holiday Homework)

Number systems and sets, chapter 2

Algebra II, chapter 4

Sequences and Series, chapter 3

Number and proof, chapter 6

Trigonometric ratios and applications, chapter 15

Vectors in the plane, chapter 21

Algorithms, chapter 8 (after semester 1 exam)

Semester 2 - The sequence of topics are:

Graphing Functions and Relations, chapter 17

Trigonometric identities, chapter 16

Complex numbers, chapter 18

Matrices and Transformations, chapter 11 & 20

Graph Theory, chapter 12 

Combinatorics, chapter 9 (If time permits)

Logic, chapter 7 (If time permits)

Assessment

Assessment tasks are completed during class time.

Students must demonstrate a satisfactory level of achievement in each of the outcomes to pass a unit of work.  This will be based on the teacher’s assessment of the student’s overall performance on the assessment tasks designated for the unit.  Tests and examinations are part of the assessment of the outcomes.

 The Outcomes in brief:

 Outcome 1:  Apply knowledge and skills – define and explain key concepts from the selected areas of study and apply a range of related mathematical routines and procedures.

 Outcome 2:  Model, Investigate and Solve Problems – apply mathematical processes in non-routine contexts and analyse and discuss these applications in at least three areas of study.

 Outcome 3:  Use Technology – use technology to produce result and carry out analysis in situations requiring problem-solving, modelling or investigative techniques in at least three areas of study.

Assessment Tasks for the Outcomes

 Outcome 1

The teacher can choose from the following tasks to assess Outcome 1:

·         Tests

·         Examination

·         Assignments

·         Revision Sheets

·         Worksheets

·         Homework

·         Summary or review notes

 Outcome 2

The teacher can choose from the following tasks to assess Outcome 2:

·         Modelling tasks.

·         Problem-solving tasks

·         Mathematical investigations

 Outcome 3

The achievement of this outcome will be assessed on student demonstration of the key skills and key knowledge in carrying out technology-based mathematical tasks within the assessment tasks for Outcomes 1 and 2.

Remember: to pass the Unit all outcomes must be S (satisfactory).

Orientation Week Work:

We will begin by covering the following ideas, concepts and skills:

• • • Solving literal equations

    • Defining number sets

The exercises for this work are available at the bottom of the page. Please complete the following questions

Exercise 1H: Q 1 (a, e, i, k, m), 2, 3, 4 (a, e), 5 (a, d, g)

Exercise 2A: Q2, 6

Exercise 2B: Q1, 2, 3 (eso), 4 (a-c), 5-6 (eso)

Exercise 2C: Q1-5(eso), 6-13

Holiday Homework

Students must complete the following exercise questions on A4 paper to be handed in at the first Specialist Maths class in 2026. 

Reference:  Specialist Mathematics Units 1 & 2 - Cambridge Senior Mathematics, Second Edition by Evans et al

 Chapter 1 – Algebra I

Exercise: 1A    Questions: 1 – 8  (eso)

Exercise: 1B    Questions: 1 - 6 (eso)

Exercise: 1C    Questions: 1 – 3 (eso)

Exercise: 1D    Questions: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14-17 (Use your CAS in this exercise)

Exercise: 1E    Questions: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 (Use your CAS in this exercise)

Exercise: 1F    Questions: 1 - 2 (eso), 3-6

Exercise: 1G    Questions: 1-3 right-hand column, 4 - 5 (eso)

Exercise: 1I Questions: All (Read the CAS instructions on page 28-29, and complete the problems with CAS)

If you do not have a copy of the textbook at this time there is an online copy of the holiday homework exercises at the bottom of this page. 

Since the use of Technology is one of the Outcomes, it is advisable that students begin familiarising themselves with the use of their TI-Nspire (CAS) Calculator.  Your book has many examples of its use, if you refer to the relevant chapters listed above.