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.
Maths faculty
Bellingen High boasts an experienced mathematics staff which enables us to offer the full range of courses available.
Maths courses aim to create confidence and enjoyment in doing mathematical activities. Students develop an awareness of how maths can be used to solve problems in everyday life. They also learn of its contribution to the development of society.
Maths course also aim to develop knowledge, skills and understanding in the following areas:
- logical, flexible, fluent and original thinking
- computation and problem solving skills
- appropriate language for the effective communication of mathematical ideas and experiences
- an ability to recognize mathematical patterns and relationships
- a variety of methods for calculation and problem solving
- an awareness of the basic structure of mathematics by an appreciation of the nature and inter-relationship of the various strands of mathematics.
Students are encouraged to enter the "Australian Mathematics Competition" which is usually held in early term 3, entries close end of term 1.
To find out the mathematics studies assessment download the assessment schedule (PDF 39KB)
Junior high mathematics
All students in years 7 to 10 must complete Mathematics to various standards set by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) based upon their ability. Students study 6 strands of Mathematics:
- Number
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Measurement
- Data
- Problem solving.
These are tested throughout the year in topic tests and major examinations and reported on twice yearly.
Senior high mathematics
In year 11 and 12 we offer 3 levels of Mathematics.
1. General mathematics
The Preliminary Mathematics General course, the HSC Mathematics General 2 course and the HSC Mathematics General 1 course are designed to promote the development of knowledge, skills and understanding in areas of mathematics that have direct application to the broad range of human activity, including a range of post-school pathways requiring a variety of mathematical and statistical techniques.
Students will learn to use a range of techniques and tools, including relevant technologies, in order to develop solutions to a wide variety of problems relating to their present and future needs and aspirations.
The HSC Mathematics General 2 course provides a strong foundation for a broad range of vocational pathways, as well as for a range of university courses. The HSC Mathematics General 1 course provides an appropriate foundation for a range of such vocational pathways, either in the workforce or in further training.
2. Advanced mathematics
The content and depth of treatment of this course is intended for students who have completed the Stage 5 mathematics course and demonstrated general competence in all the skills included in that course.
The 2 Unit Advanced course is intended to give these students an understanding of and competence in some further aspects of mathematics which are applicable to the real world.
The course has general educational merit and is also useful for concurrent studies in science and commerce. It is a sufficient basis for further studies in mathematics as a minor discipline at tertiary level in support of courses such as the life sciences or commerce. Students who require substantial mathematics at a tertiary level supporting the physical sciences, computer science or engineering should undertake the Extension 1 and 2 courses.
3. Mathematics Extension 1
The content of this course, which includes the whole of the Advanced course, and its depth of treatment is intended for students who have demonstrated a mastery of the skills included in stage 5 mathematics course and who are interested in the study of further skills and ideas in mathematics.
The Extension 1 course is intended to give these students a thorough understanding of, and competence in, aspects of mathematics including many which are applicable to the real world.
The course has general educational merit and is also useful for concurrent studies of science, industrial arts and commerce. It is a recommended minimum basis for further studies in mathematics as a major discipline at a tertiary level, and for the study of mathematics in support of the physical and engineering sciences. Although the Extension 1 course is sufficient for these purposes, it is recommended that students of outstanding mathematical ability should consider undertaking the Extension 2 course in their HSC year.