The essential content for Mathematics in K–10 is structured using one process strand working Mathematically,and five content strands:

Number

Patterns and Algebra

Data

Measurement

Space and Geometry

These strands contain the knowledge, skills and understanding for the study of mathematics in the compulsory years of schooling. In order to cater for the full range of learners, three specific endpoints and pathways (5.1, 5.2 and 5.3) have been
identified for Stage 5. At Smith’s Hill High School it is expected that all students will complete up to, and including, Stage 5.3 in order to best prepare them for Mathematics in the Senior School.

Electives

Year 7 students are able to choose Extension Maths as a subject in Semester 2. It is recommended that students choose this subject if they would like to be considered for acceleration.

Senior Study

In the Senior School, Smith’s Hill High School offers 4 Mathematics courses –

General Mathematics

Mathematics

Extension 1 Mathematics

Extension 2 Mathematics

General Mathematics focuses on mathematical skills and techniques, which have direct application to everyday life. At University this course satisfies the prerequisite statement “2 units of Mathematics”. Mathematics is intended to give students an understanding of and competence in some further aspects of mathematics, which are applicable to the real world. It has general educational merit and is also useful for concurrent studies in Science and Commerce.

Extension 1 Mathematics is intended for students who have demonstrated a mastery of the skills of Stage 5 Mathematics. This course is a recommended minimum basis for further studies in mathematics as a major discipline at a tertiary level, particularly supporting the Physical and Engineering Sciences.

Extension 2 Mathematics – offered in the HSC year - is intended for students with a special interest in mathematics who have shown they possess special aptitude for the subject. This course provides a sufficient basis for a wide range of useful applications of mathematics as well as an adequate foundation for the further study of this subject.