Successful completion of any one of the Math 11 or 12 courses will meet the graduation requirements. The pathways of math are different enough that students could benefit from taking more than one math course at any grade level. For example, a student may choose to complete Foundations Math 11 before taking PreCalculus 11 to strengthen core skills and build confidence. Students who enjoy mathematics may choose to take more than one math course at any grade level to broaden their mathematical knowledge and experience. All students will now be required to complete a numeracy assessment as a graduation requirement. Students may write this assessment in Grade 10, 11 or 12. They have up to three attempts to complete the assessment.
This course is designed to provide students with basic mathematical understandings and critical-thinking skills identified for entry into the majority of trades at post-secondary and for direct entry into the workforce. Proportional reasoning, financial mathematics, data analysis and 2D-3D representations are some of the big ideas.
These courses are designed for post-secondary studies in programs that do not necessarily require the study of theoretical mathematics (eg; geography, arts, and humanities). Reasoning, financial literacy, statistics/probability, function modelling and optimization are a few of the big ideas.
These courses are designed for entry into post-secondary programs that require a more rigorous and theoretical approach towards mathematics (eg: science, engineering, mathematics). Functions (along with their inverses and transformations) are a major focus in pre-calculus. Trigonometry, proportional reasoning, and complex algebra are some of the other big ideas.
For students who require Pre-Calculus 11 for their post-secondary requirements but need more support to succeed. This is a full-year course that will take two blocks, one in each semester. Students will review key areas of the Foundations of Math 10 curriculum and build their math skills.
Statistics plays an integral role in research and decision-making. Data analysis, statistical thinking and effective communication are some of the big ideas. Statistics 12 is considered an elective and does not satisfy the Math graduation requirement.
Calculus 12 is an introduction to university calculus. It covers 50% to 75% of Calculus 100, thus easing the transition to what is often perceived as the most difficult first-year university course. Students planning to take Calculus 100 in first year university are encouraged to take Calculus 12.
“Which course is best suited to my child?” While there is no “rule” about which math course is right for each student, the decision can be made easier by thinking about your child’s ability in math, interest in math, and future education and career plans. Attendance, work ethic, and other commitments should be taken into consideration as well. If a student has worked hard in Math 8 and 9 but has found it challenging, or if a student intends to pursue a trade or technical job after high school, then the Workplace Math pathway could be the best choice. If a student has been successful in Math 8 and 9, enjoys the challenges of math, and is thinking about future education or a career that involves social or applied sciences, then starting the Foundations of Math and Pre-Calculus pathway will be the best choice. To find out more information about each pathway option, please talk to your child’s math teacher or counsellor.
My child needs to take Pre-Calculus 11 for university but is not ready for it. What should they take? Talk to a math teacher to come up with a plan. For some, this means taking Foundations Math 11 and then Pre-Calculus 11. Other students may benefit from the full-year Intro to Pre-Calculus 11 and Pre-Calculus Math 11 option. This builds their skills and gives extra time to complete the course.
What courses are required for universities and colleges? Students should review the prerequisite courses required for individual post-secondary institutions.
Example 1: Business at UBC – requires Pre-Calculus Math 12 and Calculus 12 is highly recommended.
Example 2: Business at Douglas College – Foundations of Math 11 is required
Each institution has different requirements.