Sydney Secondary College Balmain Campus

Quality, Opportunity, Diversity

Telephone02 9810 0471

Emailbalmain-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Mathematics

The study of mathematics is mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10. 

Mathematics is a mandatory course that is studied substantially in each of Years 7–10 with at least 400 hours to be completed by the end of Year 10.

Course description

Mathematics is used to identify, describe and apply patterns and relationships. It provides a precise means of communication and is a powerful tool for solving problems both within and beyond mathematics. In addition to its practical applications, the study of mathematics is a valuable pursuit in its own right, providing opportunities for originality, challenge and leisure. The aim of Mathematics in K–10 is to develop students' mathematical thinking, understanding, competence and confidence in the application of mathematics, their creativity, enjoyment and appreciation of the subject, and their engagement in lifelong learning.

What will students learn about?

Students study Number, Patterns and Algebra, Data, Measurement, Space and Geometry.

Within each of these strands they will cover a range of topics including:

  • fractions - decimals - percentages
  • consumer arithmetic - probability - algebraic techniques
  • coordinate geometry - graphing and interpreting data - perimeter
  • area - surface area and volume - trigonometry
  • properties of solids - geometrical figures - deductive geometry.

What will students learn to do?

Students learn to ask questions in relation to mathematical situations and their mathematical experiences; to develop, select and use a range of strategies, including the use of technology, to explore and solve problems; to develop and use appropriate language and representations to communicate mathematical ideas; to develop and use processes for exploring relationships, checking solutions and giving reasons to support their conclusions; and to make connections between their existing knowledge and understanding and the use of mathematics in the real world.

Record of School Achievement

Satisfactory completion of the mandatory study of Mathematics during Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10) will be recorded with a grade on the student's Record of School Achievement Part A.

(From Information for Parents and the Community about the Mandatory Courses in Years 7–10, Board of Studies NSW).

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.