9MAT - mathematics

Mathematics is the abstract science of number, quantity, and space, either as abstract concepts (pure mathematics), or as applied to other disciplines such as physics and engineering (applied mathematics). In Mathematics you will:

• develop flexibility and creativity in applying mathematical ideas and techniques to unfamiliar problems arising in everyday life, and develop the ability to reflect critically on the methods you have chosen 

• become an effective participant in problem-solving teams, learning to express ideas, and to listen and respond to the ideas of others 

• develop the skills of presentation and critical appraisal of a mathematical argument or calculation, use mathematics to explore and conjecture, and learn from mistakes as well as successes 

• develop the characteristics of logical and systematic thinking, and apply these in mathematical and other contexts, including other subjects of the curriculum

• become a confident and competent user of information technology in mathematical contexts 

• develop the skills and confidence to use your own language, and the language of mathematics, to express mathematical ideas 

• develop the knowledge and skills to interpret written presentation of mathematics 

Topics Covered

• Number: develop an understanding of numbers, the ways they are represented, and the quantities for which they stand 

• Algebra: develop the ability to think abstractly and to use symbols, notation, and graphs and diagrams to represent and communicate mathematical relationships, concepts, and generalisations 

• Measurement: develop knowledge and understanding of systems of measurement and their use and interpretation 

• Geometry: gain a knowledge of geometrical relations in two and three dimensions, and recognise and appreciate their occurrence in the environment 

• Statistics & Probability: recognise appropriate statistical data for collection, and develop the skills of collecting, organising, and analysing data, and develop the ability to estimate probabilities and to use probabilities for prediction 

Students will develop mathematical reasoning skills, pattern spotting and creative problem solving skills.

Students who have completed Year 9 Mathematics will have consolidated the skills covered in primary and extended these to create new knowledge. 

Students will learn independent work habits and self management in a mixed ability environment.

By the end of Year 9 students will have the ability to communicate clearly using correct mathematical language and will be able to use this language to aid solving new problems.

A good attitude and a willingness to work hard, ask questions and actively participate in learning opportunities.

Formative and summative assessments take place throughout the year. Students will be advised of the dates at the start of each term. The Junior Assessment Framework will be used for all summative assessments. 

Assessment in the Junior School

The Junior Assessment Framework (JAF) is used to assess all students in Years 9 & 10.  It is designed to measure and develop students’ thinking skills.  It is based on SOLO taxonomy and has strong links to the NZ Curriculum levels.  See the documents linked here for more information – one explains the JAF in a basic way and the other is the framework itself, which shows how the different levels of thinking are graded.