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.
Mathematics in secondary school consists of 3 stages.
Stage 4: Years 7 and 8
Stage 5: Year 9 and 10
- 5.1 Standard level – the fundamental skills
- 5.2 Intermediate level involving core skills
- 5.3 Advanced level involving high level skills
Stage 6: Years 11 and 12
- Mathematics Standard Mathematics Advanced Mathematics Extension 1 (by invitation only)
- Mathematics Extension 2 (commencing Term 4 of Year 11, by invitation only)
Organisation of Mathematics Classes
At Willoughby Girls High School, mathematics classes are organised in the following structure:
- Year 7 classes are parallel.
- Year 8 classes are graded according to Year 7 overall assessment results, however all students study the same content.
- Year 9 students are allocated into the pathways according to their Year 8 overall assessment results.
- Year 10 remain in their Year 9 classes, unless circumstances indicate a need to change.
- Year 11 and 12 (Stage 6)- Mathematics in Year 11 is highly advantageous to those who wish to undertake certain tertiary studies. Students desiring to study Mathematics in Stage 6 must have completed at least Stage 5.2 Mathematics. Stage 5.3 is the prerequisite to Mathematics Advanced and Mathematics Extension 1.