Mathematics

The Tertiary Mathematics courses for the ACT have been restructured and rewritten.

Mathematical Applications (T) is designed to provide students with quantitative techniques and analytical skills which will provide relevance and meaning to their world and the world of business enterprise (work).  There is a reduced reliance on algebra in this course, compared with Mathematical Methods; it is more number-based.  A pass at Level 2 Mathematics in high school is recommended

Mathematical Methods (T) is designed to provide students with techniques in abstract reasoning, calculus and other mathematical procedures, which provide a foundation for further study in areas where mathematical modelling plays a major role.  Excellent algebra skills are assumed. A good pass at Level 1 Mathematics in high school is recommended.

Specialist Mathematics (T) is designed to provide students with additional opportunities to extend their knowledge and to refine their abstract reasoning ability in a mathematical context.  This course has changed recently and students are now able to complete a major, a major/minor or a double major in Specialist Mathematics.  The major in Specialist Mathematics has similar course content to Mathematical Methods, studied at greater depth.  A high level of achievement in the top level of maths in high school is recommended.

General Mathematics (A) This course is designed to provide students with a relevant and practical mathematical basis for making informed decisions in employment and their many other life roles.  Any study of mathematics at high school is suitable preparation for this course.

Transition from Year 10 to Year 11

Each of the courses offered at Lake Tuggeranong College develops different strengths and interests.  A sound grasp of high school work is beneficial to students in any of the college courses.  Students in T courses should expect to do AT LEAST  two hours of homework a week and probably more.
It is important to seek career advice about post secondary pre-requisites.

Graphics Calculators

Students studying tertiary level mathematics at college will need to have a graphical calculator. Purchase of TI 83 Plus or TI 84 calculators from local retailers is recommended. The college will have some available for purchase from the front office at the beginning of 2008. Alternatively, a calculator may be hired from the library for $50 per year. Students may purchase a different brand of calculator but staff at the college may not be proficient at using it and the instruction manual will need to be with the student at all times.

How students choose which course is for them

choosing a mathematics course a college students need to consider

• Past achievements in mathematics : college builds on skills developed in high school and is not a “fresh start"
• Career aspirations:  Career advice is essential and most universities specify the maths course needed to begin tertiary studies
• Work habits:Sustained effort is needed to be successful in T maths courses
• Check the "Skills for T Maths Courses" and the "What Level Maths Should I Do?" documents
  

Excellent algebra skills are essential for Specialist Mathematics and Mathematical Methods.  Those students who are good at number-based problems such as statistics or trigonometry should enrol in Mathematical Applications.  Students who have struggled a little with formal mathematics but who need to enhance basic skills and learn life skills in mathematics should enrol in General Mathematics.

Proposed Sequence of Units

click on links to obtain unit details