Units 3 & 4 Mathematical Methods

Mathematical Methods Units 3 & 4 consists of the following areas of study: Functions, Relations and Graphs, Calculus, Algebra and Data analysis and probability. The appropriate use of computer algebra system technology (CAS) to support and develop the teaching and learning of mathematics, and in related assessments, is incorporated throughout the course. This will include the use of computer algebra technology to assist in the development of mathematical ideas and concepts, the application of specific techniques and processes to produce required results and its use as a tool for systematic analysis in investigative, problem-solving and modelling work.

UNIT 3

In Unit 3, the study of Mathematical Methods includes a selection of content from the areas of study Functions and Graphs, Algebra and applications of derivatives and differentiation, and identifying and analysing key features of the functions and their graphs from the Calculus area of study. 

Learning Activities:

Computations, diagram construction (including graphs), use of TI-Nspire CAS calculator, application of laws, text questions, extended simulation activities, quizzes, analysis tasks, group problem solving and other relevant activities.

Key Skills Achieved:

• Apply a range of analytical, graphical and numerical processes to obtain general and specific solutions
• Identify important information, variables, constraints adn other key features to the investigation of various questions in a given context
• Use computational thinking, algorithms, models and simulations to solve problems related to a given context.

Assessment:

Topic Tests and Application Tasks.

UNIT 4

In Unit 4, this selection consists of remaining content from the areas of study: Functions and graphs, Calculus, Algebra and the study of random variables, discrete and continuous probability distributions, and the distribution of sample proportions.  For Unit 4, the content from the Calculus area of study includes the treatment of anti-differentiation, integration, the relation between integration and the area of regions specified by lines or curves described by the rules of functions, and simple applications of this content, including to probability distributions of continuous random variables.

Learning Activities:

Computations, diagram construction (including graphs), use of TI-Nspire CAS calculator, application of laws, text questions, extended simulation activities, quizzes, analysis tasks, group problem solving and other relevant activities.

Key Skills Achieved:

• Apply a range of analytical, graphical and numerical processes to obtain general and specific solutions
• Identify important information, variables, constraints adn other key features to the investigation of various questions in a given context
• Use computational thinking, algorithms, models and simulations to solve problems related to a given context. 
• Proficiency in the use of Ti-Nspire CAS calculator

Assessment:

• Application Questions
• Item Response

VCAA ASSESSMENT – THE OVERALL STUDY SCORE WILL CONSIST OF:

• Unit 3 School Assessed Coursework - 20%
• Unit 4 School Assessed Coursework - 20%
• Examination 1 (Technology free – Short and Extended Answers) - 20%
• Examination 2 (Technology permitted – Multiple Choice and Extended Answers) - 40%

Prerequisites: The student must have satisfactory completion of Unit 1 & 2 Mathematical Methods.

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