Programs of study
Stage 4 (Years 7 and 8)
All of Years 7 and 8 follow the same pattern of study and will have one common test each term. They may also have an additional exam towards the end of Term 4 if further information is needed to ensure they are placed in the most appropriate class for the following year.
Within each year group, however, we have the opportunity to provide additional content to those students progressing above expectations. This is also the case for students who may be having difficulty with some topics, we will adjust the content to ensure that they are starting to progress in understanding new concepts.
Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10)
In Stage 5 the students split into different ability levels (5.3, 5.2 and 5.1). There is some overlap between each level and we teach similar topics at the same time to smooth any transition between classes. As with Stage 4, teachers will accelerate or modify content for individual students to ensure that they are always working towards reaching their fullest potential.
Stage 6 (Years 11 and 12)
Mathematics is an elective subject in Stage 6 - it is not compulsory for students to study mathematics. However, we offer several levels of mathematics and one will be applicable to most students.
General Mathematics
In 2013 the new course was introduced. We are excited about this course as in Year 11 all student study the same content (which includes two focus studies that apply over several topics, mathematics and communication and mathematics and driving). For Year 12, however, they choose whether they want to take General Mathematics to the HSC (and thus contribute towards their ATAR) or would prefer to continue with simpler, life and work appropriate mathematics that does not contribute towards their ATAR. We will be advising students in Term 3 of what path we suggest they take.
Mathematics
This is a calculus based course and is best suited to those students from the 5.3 course (in Years 9 and 10). The background level of ability required is high, and as such there is an entrance examination at the end of Year 10. This examination, coupled with their results for all tasks in Year 10, is used to gauge their suitability and probability of success.
Extension 1 Mathematics
As for the mathematics course, this contains very interesting and difficult content. It is suited to students who require a high level of mathematics at university (such as for engineering courses, check university guides for assistance). A high rate of success in all examinations in Year 10 is required for entry to this course.
Extension 2 Mathematics
This is a Year 12 course only. The most successful Extension 1 students are invited to undertake this extra one-unit course and as such it is very important that students do their very best in Year 11 as all their results will be taken into account. Students choose Extension 2 when they are very capable and love their mathematics.