The study of mathematics is mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10.
By studying mathematics, students learn to work mathematically – developing fluency, understanding, problem-solving, reasoning and communication skills.
The syllabus consists of the following strands:
- number and algebra
- measurement and geometry
- statistics and probability.
In Year 11 and 12, the study of mathematics is optional. Courses offered include:
- Mathematics Extension 2 (Year 12 only)
- Mathematics Extension 1
- Mathematics Advanced
- Mathematics Standard 2
- Mathematics Standard 1 (Optional HSC examination)
- Mathematics Life Skills.
At Peel High School every student is encouraged to become aware of the importance of mathematics in everyday life and to develop knowledge and skills to a level that is adequate for whatever direction in life that they choose to take. To this end students should see mathematics as a powerful and useful tool that deserves their consistent application to achieve their goals.
Mathematics is a subject where knowledge builds upon itself. Whatever was learnt in K-6 needs to be remembered as a foundation for Year 7 and each following year adds layer upon layer like building a brick wall.
Support received from parents and community is considered to be one of the most important factors in achieving academic excellence. Students' interests, confidence, and learning in mathematics are stimulated by the support and involvement of parents or guardians and extended family members.
Junior school- Stage 4 (Years 7 & 8) and Stage 5 (Years 9 & 10)
Mathematics is a mandatory course in Years 7-10 and students are placed in classes according to their level of development. All students study up to the Stage 5.1 level by the end of Year 10 while more able students may do additional work from Stages 5.2 and 5.3.
Further information may be found via the following links:
Senior School – Stage 6 (years 11 and 12)
In the senior school mathematics subjects are not compulsory but the majority of students still opt to do one of the available subjects.
There are three courses available in Year 11 in 2019:
- Mathematics Standard (a non-calculus course designed to support TAFE and VET courses). The Preliminary Mathematics Standard course allows students to access either the HSC Mathematics Standard 2 (Category A) course or the HSC Mathematics Standard 1 (Category B) course in their HSC Year.
- Mathematics Advanced (a calculus course useful for university studies in Science and Commerce/Accounting).
- Mathematics Extension 1 (useful for university studies in Science, Engineering, Medicine, etc). Those students of outstanding Mathematical ability should also consider undertaking the Mathematics Extension 2 course in Year 12.
Further information on these courses may be found via the following link:
Equipment
In addition to the usual equipment (pens, pencils, ruler and exercise book) it is necessary for students to bring a scientific calculator to class each day. Regular checks by parents that their child has these items will ensure that the child has the opportunity to maximise their learning of mathematics.
Homework
Homework is a very important component in achieving success in mathematics. Homework issued for maths classes will reflect the scholastic stage of each student and their productivity whilst in class at school. Students will not generally be expected to complete excessive amounts of homework but small amounts regularly is very beneficial to the learning of this subject.