Hawkesbury High School

Caring, learning, connecting

Telephone02 4579 6800

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

Mathematics

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

By studying mathematics, students learn to work mathematically – developing fluency, understanding, problem-solving, reasoning and communication skills.

The syllabus consists of the following strands:

  • number and algebra
  • measurement and geometry
  • statistics and probability.

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.

Our Year 9, 10, 11 and 12 mathematics courses aim to develop students' mathematical thinking, understanding, competence and confidence in the application of mathematics, their creativity, enjoyment and appreciation of the subject as well as their engagement in lifelong learning. Students will develop skills, knowledge and understanding through the application of problem-solving strategies including the use of appropriate technologies, written and mental computation, patterning and algebraic reasoning, evaluating information, identifying attributes of shapes and objects as well as using geometric reasoning.

The Year 9 and 10 courses

Students complete a course according to their ability:

Group 1 – 5.2/5.3 advanced content or

Group 2 – 5.1/5.2 content

Year 11 and 12 courses

The Mathematics Extension 1 course includes the Advanced Mathematics 2 unit course and gives students a thorough understanding of theoretical real-world events. It provides students with the skills to further their mathematical problem-solving abilities and allows them to extend their skills to a level which is required of University Mathematics, Physics and Engineering degrees.

The Advanced Mathematics course gives students an understanding of further aspects of mathematics to the real world. It is useful for concurrent studies in science and commerce and the Advanced Mathematics course provides a sufficient base for further studies in mathematics at a tertiary level.

The Mathematics Standard 2 course is designed to promote the development of knowledge, skills and understanding in areas of mathematics that have direct application to the broad range of human activity. It provides students with the opportunity to develop an understanding for a range of concurrent HSC studies, such as in the life sciences, the humanities and business studies. This course provides a strong foundation for students entering the workforce and/or undertaking further training, university courses in the humanities, nursing and paramedical sciences.

The Mathematics Standard 1 course is designed to promote the development of knowledge, skills and understanding in areas of mathematics that have direct application to the broad range of human activity. This course caters for students entering the workforce, further vocational studies, practically oriented courses, and some humanities courses. The HSC Mathematics Standard 1 course is a Board Endorsed Course. There is an optional HSC examination at the end of year 12.

Special programs/activities offered

  • Australian mathematics competition Years 7-12
  • Quicksmart mathematics
  • Lawrence Hargraves challenge
  • Gifted and talented students (GATS) day

Staff

  • Mrs J Smith (Head Teacher)
  • Miss M Titchmarsh
  • Ms D Jathan
  • Mr L Davies (Year 9 Advisor)
  • Mr A Sharma