The Mathematics Department focuses its attention on the delivery of good, engaging lessons, and to teach the students, not just the concepts.
Programs have been refined to better match where the student is at conceptually, rather than chronologically. Understanding the concept and the Mathematics process is the background thought of each lesson, rather than getting students to repeat rote-learnt recipe style Mathematics. Attempts are made to get students to construct their knowledge on their foundation to ensure that links are made, and the purpose of the Mathematics is clear. The end result is better teaching, better student understanding, and a better understanding of each student.
From 2008 we will be using the Sadler workbook for Year 8 and the Maths for WA series in Years 9 and 10. Senior classes use the Sadler series. We also expect students to have a graphics calculator in the higher streams of Years 9 through to 11.
In Year 11 and 12 we currently offer: Foundations of Mathematics; Introductory Calculus; Geometry and Trigonometry; Discrete Mathematics; Applicable Mathematics; Vocational Mathematics and Modelling with Mathematics. We are also looking to include Track Skill Mathematics as recognised by Challenger TAFE WA in their pre-apprenticeship courses. We stream students from Year 9 onwards, ensuring that our most academic students can strive for excellence whilst catering for those who may struggle. We have introduced the Mathletics website to our students who are struggling with mathematics and for our gifted and talented students. |
