VCE Mathematical Methods

Mathematical Methods provides a study of simple elementary functions 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, humanities, economics and medicine.

In Unit 2 students focus on the study of simple transcendental functions and the calculus of simple algebraic functions. The areas of study are ‘Functions and graphs’, ‘Algebra’, ‘Calculus’, and ‘Probability and statistics’. In undertaking this unit, students are expected to be able to apply techniques, routines and processes involving rational and real arithmetic, sets, lists and tables, diagrams and geometric constructions, algebraic manipulation, equations, graphs, differentiation and anti-differentiation with and without the use of technology. They will continue to work on their ability to complete relevant mental and by-hand approaches to estimation and computation. The use of numerical, graphical, geometric, symbolic and statistical functionality of technology for teaching and learning mathematics, for working mathematically, and in related assessment, is to be incorporated throughout the unit as applicable.  

Area of Study:

1. Functions and graphs 

2. Algebra 

3. Calculus 

4. Probability and statistics 

Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4 extend the introductory study of simple elementary functions of a single real variable, to include combinations of these functions, algebra, calculus (differentiation and antidifferentiation/integration), probability and statistics (discrete and continuous probability distributions), and their applications in a variety of practical and theoretical contexts. Assumed knowledge and skills for Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4 are contained in Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2. Problems completed during Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4 involve modelling, transformations, graph sketching and equation solving in application to contexts related to these areas of study.

In undertaking these units, students are expected to be able to apply techniques, routines and processes involving rational and real arithmetic, sets, lists and tables, diagrams and geometric constructions, algorithms, algebraic manipulation, equations, graphs, differentiation, anti-differentiation, and integration and inference with and without the use of technology. They should have facility with relevant mental and by-hand approaches to estimation and computation. The use of numerical, graphical, geometric, symbolic and statistical functionality of technology for teaching and learning mathematics, for working mathematically, and in related assessment, is to be incorporated throughout each unit as applicable.

Areas of Study:

1. Algebra, number and structure

2. Data analysis, probability and statistics

3. Calculus

4. Functions, relations and graphs

You should discuss your maths choices with your current maths teacher. The following teachers can be contacted to find out more about this course:

St Mary's Teachers:

Mr Darren Scott: dscott@cmc.vic.edu.au

Mr Matthew Angove: mangove@cmc.vic.edu.au

Mrs Tania Angove: tangove@cmc.vic.edu.au 

Mrs Bethany Amsing: bamsing@cmc.vic.edu.au

Coolock Teachers:

Mr Shane McConvill: smcconvill@cmc.vic.edu.au