VCE Specialist Mathematics 

Specialist Mathematics comprise a combination of topics for students interested in advanced study of mathematics, with a focus on mathematical structure and reasoning. The areas of study extend content from Mathematical Methods to include rational and other quotient functions as well as other advanced mathematics topics such as complex numbers, vectors, differential equations, proofs and statistical inference. 

Specialist Mathematics Units 1 and 2 provide a course of study for students who wish to undertake an in-depth study of mathematics, with an emphasis on concepts, skills and processes related to mathematical structure, modelling, problem solving, reasoning and proof. This study has a focus on interest in the discipline of mathematics in its own right and investigation of a broad range of applications, as well as development of a sound background for further studies in mathematics and mathematics related fields. Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2 and Specialist Mathematics Units 1 and 2, taken in conjunction, provide a comprehensive preparation for Specialist Mathematics Units 3 and 4.

Areas of Study

1. Algebra, number and structure

2. Data analysis, probability and statistics

3. Discrete mathematics

4. Functions, relations and graphs

5. Space and measurement

Specialist Mathematics Units 3 and 4 are designed to be taken in conjunction with Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4, or following previous completion of Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4.

In undertaking these units, students are expected to be able to apply techniques, routines and processes involving rational, real and complex arithmetic, sets, lists, tables and vectors, 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. Calculus

3. Data analysis, probability and statistics

4. Discrete mathematics

5. Functions, relations and graphs

6. Space and measurement