The study of mathematics is mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10.
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.
A highly experienced and dedicated staff is committed to providing all students with a quality education in this important subject area, with a focus on developing the skills and confidence to work accurately on number-related everyday and mathematics-specific problems.
Teaching programs based on the national curriculum are used to help develop the knowledge and skills appropriate to each student's level of ability, with curriculum differentiation employed where appropriate. Students are encouraged to take personal responsibility for their learning and use all available resources to improve their understanding. They are offered ongoing feedback, encouragement and challenge from their teachers, and are expected to persevere and strive to achieve to the best of their ability. Homework is given regularly for the purpose of consolidating the work from each lesson, while regular revision and study are encouraged to help achieve a consistent level of success in assessment tasks.
All students in Mathematics are required to bring a grid exercise book and a scientific calculator (PDF 44KB) to every class. We recommend the Casio fx-82AU Plus II, which can be purchased for $20 from the front office. Students may also be requested to bring in a geometry set. Calculators and geometry equipment will not be lent to students during examinations.
Year 7 and 8
We have introduced the dynamic maths pathways learning system. Every student will undergo a diagnostic process and then they will be given a targeted learning program that is specific to their current knowledge and skills. Talented students are given the opportunity to develop their skills further through extension activities in the classroom. We encourage all of Year 7 to take part in the mathematics competition held annually. This exciting new program measures growth, effort and accuracy. Parents are encouraged to check their child's progress via the parent portal. All students should be completing modules at home at least 3 times per week for up to 30 minutes.
Year 9 and 10
Classes are divided into 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3 levels based on Year 8 assessment. However, students are given regular opportunities to move between both classes and levels based on current performance.
We have many students in Years 9 who are undertaking an accelerated program, whereby they will be completing Years 9 and 10 Mathematics in one year. We also have a large number of Year 10 students working towards completing Year 11 Extension 1 Mathematics with the ultimate aim to complete the HSC Mathematics examination early in Year 11.
Year 11 and 12
The Mathematics General 1 (non-ATAR), General 2, Mathematics, Mathematics Extension 1 and Mathematics Extension 2 courses are all available, with a focus on thoroughly preparing students to achieve their best possible result in the HSC exam(s). Over an extended period of time, our students have achieved consistent success in all courses, with many making use of their skills and knowledge in this subject area in post-secondary education. In 2017 our Extension 2 class performed exceptionally well with the majority attaining the highest band.
We have also introduced the new Standard Mathematics course which replaces General 2 Mathematics
Australian mathematics competition (AMC)
Over 100 Marsden High School students take part in this non-mandatory competition, with a significant number achieving results at distinction level. In our opinion, the AMC is a strong measure of mathematical and problem-solving ability, as well as the level of student and staff motivation to achieve to the best of their ability no matter how high the challenge. This competition is available annually.
Mathematics elective
At Marsden we offer an elective Mathematics choice for our Year 10 students. Students with a particular interest and ability will have the opportunity to study different topics to the mandatory coursework. Including - coastal navigation, matrices, linear programming, functions and mappings, surveying. Students undertaking this elective will enhance their knowledge and skills in Mathematics in preparation for senior study.