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Is Maths compulsory in VCE?

Maths is not compulsory in VCE but students are highly recommended to study a Maths subject if they have met the prerequisites for the subject. Studying Maths to a higher level opens up opportunities for future study and for future job prospects. 

Two Units of Maths is, however, compulsory for all students wishing to undertake the VCE Vocational Major (VM)

Which maths should I study in VCE?

Students should aim to study the highest level of maths they can. You will need a recommendation to take Maths Methods and/or Specialist Maths and will need to meet prerequisites from Year 10. Students who are unsure should seek advice from the Careers teacher to see which maths is required for the courses they want to study or for any area of future employment.

What if I don’t get a recommendation for the maths I need to do for my future studies?

Students who don’t get a recommendation will need to meet with the Careers teacher to see what options there are for their future pathways. If a maths subject is required where there is no recommendation the student will need to discuss their options with the Head of Maths who will review their work/results. Students may be asked to do additional work to show their readiness for the Maths they would like to do. 

I am in Year 10 but I’m not in the Enhanced Maths class. Can I still do Maths Methods and/or Specialist Maths?

Students who want to study Maths Methods and/or Specialist Maths in VCE must have completed the Enhanced Maths course. If they are not in the Enhanced Maths class they should speak to the Head of Maths to determine if they are eligible. The eligibility will depend on their completion of set work and their results in Year 10 as well as their future pathways. They may also be asked to see the Careers team. If students are eligible but are unable to move into the Enhanced Maths class in Semester 2 they will be asked to complete the Enhanced Maths course in their normal maths class. Their teacher will assist them to do this and they will be required to do the Enhanced Maths assessments, including the final exam. Students will also be asked to attend lunchtime help each week so they can get extra support. 

Do I have to do Maths Methods if I just want to do Specialist Maths?

At MEC, students who want to study Specialist Maths must do Maths Methods concurrently.

I’m doing Maths Methods in Year 11 but don’t want to continue in Year 12. Can I do General Maths instead? 

Yes, you can. Any student who has attempted Maths Methods at year 11 may do General Maths at Year 12.

Can I accelerate into a Year 12 Maths from Year 10?

At MEC we believe that students should study the Maths subject in the year that it was intended. E.g. Methods Unit 3 & 4 would be studied in Year 12. The only possibility may be for a student currently in the Year 10 Enhanced class who may be able to take General Maths. This will depend on their Enhanced Maths results and whether they are accelerating in any other subject. Students should see the Head of Maths to discuss this option.

Will Specialist Maths definitely run?

Specialist Maths will depend on the numbers of students taking the class. Students should have another option in case it does not go ahead.

Can I do Maths Methods and/or Specialist Maths in Year 12 if I did General Maths in Year 11?

The prerequisite for both Maths Methods and Specialist Maths in Year 12 is Maths Methods and Specialist Maths in Year 11. Students who have studied General Maths in Year 11 will not have the required knowledge to be ready for Maths Methods or Specialist Maths.

What is the benefit of taking Foundation Maths at Year 11?

Foundation Maths is a Year 11 subject that is continued into Year 12. Students who would like to complete a maths subject in VCE but do not need it as a prerequisite for a university course should consider Foundation Maths. It may be required for tertiary/TAFE courses and/or apprenticeships in future years. It has a more practical focus. Please speak with the careers office if you are unsure if this course is a prerequisite for your desired pathway. 

What if I have any additional questions?

You can talk to the Assistant Mathematics Domain Leader (Nicola Disegna) or the Mathematics Domain Leader (Uveer Maharaj). Either one would be happy to help answer any of your questions or concerns.