Mathematics

OVERVIEW

Mathematics is the study of function, pattern, and in some cases even randomness. Mathematics can be a tool of investigation, communication, and even expression. In VCE mathematics, students can explore a range of topics and prepare themselves for their future. All VCE mathematics subjects involve the use of technology and most use graphic calculators. Heathmont College offers a range of Mathematics courses to suit different abilities and career paths.

Students should carefully read the course descriptions and the possible pathways (mentioned below) and discuss these with their current mathematics teacher, careers counsellor, and family. They should consider how they have performed in mathematics in the past, particularly in Year 10. Also, a possible career path is important to consider as many future pathways require certain Mathematics subjects to have been studied. Students should be careful not to select the minimum level of prerequisite as decisions about their future career pathway may change over time. VCE Mathematics units may also be used for credit transfer for some TAFE courses.

WHICH MATHS STUDIES SHOULD STUDENTS CHOOSE?

Different mathematical subjects focus on different areas of mathematics and are usually chosen for varying career pathways and/or student performance and enjoyment of mathematics. A brief overview of the four VCE mathematics subjects is below. More detailed information regarding VCE Mathematics here.

Note that refences to Units 1 and 2 are subjects typically undertaken in Year 11 and Units 3 and 4 are subjects typically undertaken in Year 12.

Specialist Mathematics

Explore advanced mathematical concepts including rational and quotient functions, logic, proof, complex numbers, vecctors, differential equations, kinematics and statistical inference. Specialist Mathematics provides background for further study in mathematics and other STEM fields.

Note that Specialist Mathematics Units 3 and 4 assumes concurrent study or previous completion of Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4.

Mathematical Methods

Investigate simple elementary functions and their transformations, calculus, probability and statistics, and the application of these topics in a variety of practical and theoretical contexts. Mathematical Methods also provides background for further study in STEM, humanities, economics, and medicine.

General Mathematics

Study non-calculus and discrete mathematics topics. This subject is designed to be widely accessible and provide preparation for general employment, business or further study, in particular where data analysis, recursion and financial modelling, networks and matrices are important.

Students may transition from Units 1 and 2 Mathematical Methods to Units 3 and 4 General Mathematics without the need for significant additional study.

Foundation Mathematics

Continue mathematical development, investigating problems encountered in practical contexts in everyday life at home, in the community, at work and in study.

Pathways

The pathway chosen for Units 1 and 2 (usually Year 11) and Units 3 and 4 (usually Year 12) are linked. Typically, subjects chosen for Units 1 and 2 would be continued for Units 3 and 4, but this is not always the case. A summary of the combinations is shown in the table below.

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