The
purpose of this subject is to cater for highly motivated academic students who
have a keen interest in science and mathematics. The learning experiences are designed
to develop high level problem solving strategies and foster creative thinking.
Areas of study
Students
will spend equal time on maths and science in the course.
Mathematics
will focus on developing sophisticated and refined mathematical understanding,
analytical thought and problem solving skills. Skills covered, but not limited
to, include: advanced algebra, linear and quadratic functions, solving
simultaneous equations, trigonometry, exponential and logarithms, arithmetic
and geometric sequences and series, surds and linear regression theory. Digital
technologies will be used to facilitate this expansion of knowledge and skills
and to provide access to new tools for continuing mathematical exploration. Exposure
to these topics and experiences will greatly assist the students’ progression
and therefore achieve greater success in QCAA Maths
Methods and Specialist Mathematics.
Science
will focus on understanding and applying the scientific method, skills for
displaying analysing and interpreting results, and content that should give a
broader understanding of content taught in Year 9 and above. Topics will
include: analysing systematic and random errors, how to improve experimental
results, calculate and represent the uncertainties associated with experimental
data, analyse electrical circuits, determine rate law and more. Students will
develop skills using Excel and data loggers. These experiences and skills
should prove beneficial in higher grades whether choosing QCAA Science
subjects.
Subject advice
Students
taking this course would need to be at least a ‘B’ standard in both Maths and
Science from previous grade. It is expected that students would do 15-30
minutes of homework per night on average 3 times per week.
Assessment
Mathematics: Students
will be assessed by term and semester exams.
Science: Written
exams (Supervised Assessments-Science), written
experimental reports (Extended Experimental Investigations-Science)
Associated subject costs
The
only extra cost would be money required to support excursions.
Contacts
Robyn
Cowie | Head of Department Science | T 40503052