Mathematics at a Glance – Term 3 Update

It’s been a busy and productive term so far across all year levels in the Mathematics Department. From real-world modelling to statistical investigations and complex numbers, students have been engaging in meaningful learning experiences that build critical thinking and numeracy. Here’s a snapshot of what’s been happening:

Year 8: Discovering Data
Year 8 students have been conducting statistical investigations, learning how sampling methods influence results and how to analyse and compare data distributions. Students are developing skills in using measures of central tendency and range to interpret real-world data sets.

Year 9: Modelling Change
In Year 9, students are exploring linear and quadratic functions to model change in financial and applied contexts. Using digital tools, they are investigating how varying parameters affects both algebraic rules and graph shapes—strengthening their connections between equations and real-world patterns.

Year 10: Algebra & Geometry in Action
Students have been expanding and factorising algebraic expressions, with a focus on monic quadratics, while also examining the relationships between parallel and perpendicular lines using gradients and graphing techniques.

Year 10 SCN: Maths for the Workplace
In the Short Course in Numeracy, students have developed practical skills to support employment readiness. They are exploring mathematical tasks related to wages, budgeting, measuring, and reading timetables—key tools for thriving in the workforce.  Miss Henbury has created many hands-on lessons to ensure the Maths concepts explored are real and engaging.

Year 11 Essential: Visualising Data
Students have begun the term with a focus on data collection and graphs. They are developing confidence in interpreting and representing data, using charts and tables to make sense of everyday information.

Year 11 General: Sports & Statistics
General Maths students have just received their assessment where they are required to analyse data from two professional sports teams—one successful and one not. They’re using univariate data analysis to compare player characteristics and performance to uncover possible reasons for differences in success.

11 General students working in teams to solve algebraic problems

Year 11 Methods: Predicting Population Growth
Students have applied exponential functions to model population growth in a fictional town. Their PSMT challenges them to evaluate the reasonableness of their model and consider how growth affects infrastructure and services.

Year 11 Specialist: Entering the Complex World
Specialist students have explored complex numbers and their arithmetic. They’re building fluency with imaginary numbers, conjugates, and algebraic manipulation in preparation for their upcoming exam.

Year 12 Essential: Final Assessment Begins
Essential Maths students have just received their final assignment for the year, modelling population growth using exponential functions. They’ll evaluate the model’s limitations and explore its application in town planning.

Year 12 General & Methods: Final Countdown
General and Methods students are wrapping up their content and shifting into revision mode for their IA3, beginning in Week 5. They’re focused on applying concepts and refining problem-solving skills ahead of assessment and external exams.

Year 12 General Maths students working collaboratively to solve given problems.

We are proud of the hard work and commitment shown by all students this term. We look forward to supporting them through revision, final assessments, and celebrations as the year draws to a close. 

Morgan Festing

HOD Math