Specialist Mathematics

About the subject

Stage 1 Mathematics is a 10-credit subject or a 20-credit subject.

Mathematics develops an increasingly complex and sophisticated understanding of calculus, statistics, mathematical arguments, and proofs, and using mathematical models. By using functions, their derivatives, and integrals, and by mathematically modelling physical processes, students develop a deep understanding of the physical world through a sound knowledge of relationships involving rates of change. Students use statistics to describe and analyse phenomena that involve uncertainty and variation.

Stage 1 Mathematics provides the foundation for further study in mathematics in Stage 2 Mathematical Methods and Stage 2 Specialist Mathematics.

Stage 2 Mathematical Methods can lead to tertiary studies of economics, computer sciences, and the sciences. It prepares students for courses and careers that may involve the use of statistics, such as health or social sciences.

Stage 2 Specialist Mathematics can be a pathway to mathematical sciences, engineering, space science, and laser physics. Specialist Mathematics is designed to be studied in conjunction with Mathematical Methods.

Course content

Key concepts from 10A Mathematics in the Australian Curriculum required for the study of Stage 1 Mathematics, Stage 2 Mathematical Methods, and Stage 2 Specialist Mathematics have been incorporated into the relevant topics.

• Topic 7: Arithmetic and geometric sequences and series
• Topic 8: Geometry
• Topic 9: Vectors in the plane
• Topic 10: Further trigonometry
• Topic 11: Matrices
• Topic 12: Real and complex numbers.

Assessment

The following assessment types enable students to demonstrate their learning in Stage 1 Mathematics:

• Assessment Type 1: Skills and Applications Tasks
• Assessment Type 2: Mathematical Investigation.

For a 10-credit subject, students should provide evidence of their learning through four assessments. Each assessment type should have a weighting of at least 20%.

Students complete:

• at least two skills and applications tasks
• at least one mathematical investigation.

Students who achieve a C grade or better in this subject meet the NTCET compulsory 10-credit numeracy requirement.