Berwick Secondary College

Years 7 – 10

The Mathematics Domain implemented the Victorian Essential Learning Standards (VELs) in 2006. Our courses have changed to reflect the new standards and we will continue to revise and amend them in future years.

Under VELs our teaching practice has changed to include more open-ended tasks, an opportunity for students to work at their own level and to incorporate more Information Communications Technologies (ICT). In addition to the core mathematics subjects in years 7 - 10 we also offer a Problem Solving elective unit at Year 10 and students who have a keen interest in mathematics are encouraged to take up this elective.

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Years 11 – 12 Senior Years Mathematics

We offer the following VCE mathematics subjects:

Foundation Mathematics Units 1 & 2 (not running in 2009 due to low numbers)
General Mathematics Standards Units 1 & 2
General Mathematics Advanced Units 1 & 2
Mathematical Methods Units 1 & 2
Further Mathematics Units 3 & 4
Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4
Specialist Mathematics Units 3 & 4

We have a strong interest in the VCAL program and support the numeracy teachers in this program with curriculum resources and teaching and learning assistance.

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Our Courses

Our mathematics students develop logical thinking skills and explore the world of space, measurement, number, statistics and probability. They are encouraged to work in teams, set their own learning goals and understand the rigours of the mathematical language.

They begin to learn the intricacies of algebra in year 7 and progress to complex algebraic equations by Year 10. They are involved in mapping and graphing and exploring mathematical modelling of real life situations. They estimate, measure and calculate using formulas of the dimensions related to time, space, shape and fluids.

They work in 2D and 3D and learn the meanings of acronyms such as SOHCAHTOA and BODMAS. They study theorems such as Pythagoras and relationships between speed, distance and time and they learn and use all the basics: adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing, percentages, decimals and fractions.

They learn the skills to use mathematics at higher levels and they understand that while they may not always see the mathematics, it is all around them in the world in which they live. They are introduced to the financial mathematical skills that are required to enter our business world and become financially literate as adults, who work, bank, invest and borrow money.

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In the Classroom

Our students have access to an ICT rich environment in the maths Flexible Learning Space where they are exposed to interactive whiteboard technology, laptops and graphics calculator technology. They are able to work collaboratively on projects and access tasks at all different year levels.

Many mathematics classes use hands-on tasks where students learn about all aspects of the spaces around them by estimating, measuring and calculating. They also investigate the world of maps and coordinates and extend this to learn about graphing lines and curves. They spend time on the rigours of mathematical reasoning by practicing techniques and solving problems using these techniques.

Students also have access to computer pods and rooms where they can use mathematical programs such as Excel, E-thinking and Green Globs to explore and demonstrate their understanding. Older students learn to use their graphics calculator to further their understanding and some are learning to use the new Computer Algebra System CAS calculators which open the world of mathematical reasoning and understanding even further.

Our numeracy and literacy students work in small groups in their own classroom that is technologically enriched. They work on real world projects as well as being involved in dedicated numeracy lessons to build both their skills and confidence. All mathematics students are encouraged to communicate their understanding using appropriate mathematical language both verbally and in written form.

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