VCE Maths: Methods
Subject Prospectus - Maths
VCE Mathematical Methods:
Mathematical Methods Units 1–4 provide for the study of simple elementary functions, transformations and combinations of these functions, algebra, calculus, probability and statistics, and their applications in a variety of practical and theoretical contexts. They also provide background for further study in, for example, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), humanities, economics and medicine.
Who should select Mathematical
Mathematical Methods is aimed at students who have a strong interest in mathematics, have strong Algebra knowledge and achieved an average score above 60% in Year 10 Advanced Maths.
Potential Future Careers:
Engineering
Pharmacy
Physiotherapy
Surveying
Science
Computer Science
Radiation Therapy
Commerce & Economics
Unit 1 and 2 provide an introductory study of simple elementary functions of a single real variable, algebra, calculus, probability and statistics and their applications in a variety of practical and theoretical contexts. Areas of study are:
Algebra, number and structure
Data analysis, probability and statistics
Functions, relations and graphs
Calculus
Unit 3 and 4 extend the study of simple elementary functions of a single real variable, to include combinations of these functions, algebra, calculus, probability and statistics, and their applications in a variety of practical and theoretical contexts. Areas of study are:
Algebra, number and structure
Data analysis, probability and statistics
Functions, relations and graphs
Calculus
Contact Time:
Duration: 5 lessons per week - Year long subject
Further information:
Current Mathematical Methods Teachers - Troy Boote and Elizabeth Barker
Head of Maths - Troy Boote
RATIONALE:
The underlying principle of Mathematics study is that students will:
Develop mathematical concepts, key knowledge and key skills
Apply mathematics to analyse, investigate and model a variety of contexts and solve practical and theoretical problems in situations that range from well-defined and familiar to open-ended and unfamiliar
Apply computational thinking and algorithms, and use technology effectively as a tool for working mathematically.
ENTRY:
There are no prerequisites for entry to Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2. However students attempting Mathematical Methods are expected to have a sound background in number, algebra, functions and probability. Additionally, it is highly recommended students have completed Advanced Maths in year 10.
Units 3 and 4 are designed to be taken as a sequence. Students must undertake Unit 3 of a study before entering Unit 4 of that study.
ASSESSMENT:
Units 1 and 2: These units are assessed internally, including end of year exams.
Unit 3 School-assessed Coursework: 20%
Unit 4 School-assessed Coursework: 14%
Units 3 and 4 examination 1: 22%
Units 3 and 4 examination 2: 44%
Units 1&2 Vocational Major Numeracy will be unavailable in 2025.