Unit Description

Year 9 Mathematical Explorations is recommended for mathematically inclined students who have consistently achieved strong results in Year 8 Mathematics and are ready for a challenging and rewarding experience. We'll build upon your strong foundation, introducing you to the rigour and high expectations necessary for Year 10 Mathematics for Methods, a crucial stepping stone to VCE Mathematics Methods and VCE Specialist Mathematics.

You'll discover how we uncover and apply advanced concepts as we delve into trigonometry, extending beyond right-angled triangles to tackle more complex spatial problems. We'll deepen your algebraic skills to manipulate expressions involving irrational numbers and solve intricate equations. You'll also analyse the properties of linear and quadratic graphs to interpret and predict real-world phenomena, including motion and optimisation. Furthermore, you'll apply sophisticated techniques in measurement to three-dimensional contexts, as well as in probability to model and interpret events.

Crucially, you'll be empowered by digital technologies, with an introduction to using CAS technology throughout the course. This powerful tool will allow you to explore complex problems, visualise abstract concepts, and solve problems with greater efficiency and accuracy, preparing you for its extensive use in VCE.

All Year 9 Math Explorations students will require a scientific calculator (which you should retain from Year 8) and a Texas Instruments TI-Nspire II CAS Calculator (cost approximately $250). You'll continue using this CAS calculator in subsequent years.