Mathematics

Mathematics classes are organised into three levels:

Level 1 is for students with a proven high level of mathematical ability,
Level 2 is for students with good mathematical skills, and
Level 3 is for students who are interested in practical Mathematics.

In the junior years, the course content for all levels is similar, thus enabling movement between these levels. In Years 9 and 10, the course content of each level is designed to prepare students for the different levels of college Mathematics. The Level 1 course prepares students for either Specialist Mathematics or Mathematical Methods at college, the Level 2 course leads to the study of Mathematical Applications at college and students in Level 3 would be best suited to study Accredited Mathematics at college.

Content

Reflecting the approach taken in the National Statement on Mathematics and ACT Mathematics Curriculum Framework, the Mathematics program is designed to develop the student's abilities in the content strands of space, number, measurement, chance and data, and algebra. Emphasis is placed on showing how Mathematics is of practical relevance to the students and on developing their problem solving techniques. Our aim is to engender a positive attitude towards Mathematics in all students. The appropriate use of calculators and computers as tools in Mathematics is also emphasised.

Each student is required to have a calculator for personal use in all lessons. This follows the National Statement on Calculator Use in the Classroom. Not only do students learn how to use the calculator, but they also learn estimation skills that enable them to make informed decisions about approximate answers. We recommend the purchase of a scientific calculator as it will satisfy all learning needs, even at University. The School Canteen stocks these at a very competitive price.

At the start of each semester students are given a unit outline that lists the content areas and learning outcomes to be covered during the semester.

Assessment

Extension Mathematics and Workforce Mathematics may be offered in Year 10, depending on student interest and ability. The Extension Mathematics course follows the Level 1 curriculum, but with a focus on further enrichment of the concepts studied. A student who has successfully completed this course would be capable of studying any of the Mathematics courses at college, including Specialist Mathematics. The Workforce Mathematics course is aimed at students who wish to either enter the workforce or study at the Canberra Institute of Technology after completing their Year 10 Certificate. The main focus of this course is to improve the numeracy skills of students, with an emphasis on the practical uses of Mathematics in the real world.

Melrose High School has been chosen as a pilot school for the International Centre of Excellence for Education in Mathematics (ICE-EM) Mathematics Program. The program has been developed in recognition of the increasing importance of Mathematics in modern workplaces, and the need to enhance the mathematical capability of Australian students. The program comprises a series of textbooks, teacher professional development, multimedia materials and continuing teacher support. We are currently trialling the curriculum and textbooks for Years 7 and 8.

Extension activities are offered to all Level 1 students and are based upon programs provided by the Australian Mathematics Trust. Year 7 and 8 students are offered the Mathematics Challenge, and Year 9 and 10 students are offered the Mathematics Enrichment Program.