Rationale
Mathematics in the Stage 6 Curriculum
Mathematical ideas have evolved and continue to develop across cultures and have been practised in Australia by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples for thousands of years.
The utility of mathematics extends from counting and measuring to explaining real-world phenomena and to the inherent beauty of mathematics. Mathematics has evolved in sophisticated ways to become the language used to describe and understand much of the modern world.
The creative application of mathematical concepts is integral to scientific and technological advancement. The symbolic nature of mathematics provides a precise means of communication.
The Mathematics Stage 6 syllabuses are designed to offer students opportunities to think mathematically. Mathematical thinking is supported through questioning, communicating, reasoning, reflecting and the use of appropriate technology, and is encouraged through providing students with opportunities to generalise, challenge, find connections and to think critically and creatively. Using mathematical thinking, students apply their knowledge and skills to deepen their understanding of the world.
Mathematics Extension 2
Mathematics Advanced, Mathematics Extension 1 and Mathematics Extension 2 form a continuum to provide students with opportunities to acquire knowledge, understanding and skills in mathematical concepts at progressively higher levels and with applications in an increasing number of contexts. Mathematics Advanced, Mathematics Extension 1 and Mathematics Extension 2 provide students with opportunities to learn about the interconnected nature of mathematics, its beauty and its functionality. The concepts and techniques of differential and integral calculus are the basis of the courses.
Mathematics Extension 2 provides students with the opportunity to develop strong mathematical manipulation skills and a deep understanding of the fundamental ideas of algebra and calculus. Students strengthen their appreciation of mathematics as an activity with its own intrinsic value, involving invention, intuition and exploration. Mathematics Extension 2 extends students’ conceptual knowledge and understanding through the exploration of new areas of mathematics not seen in Mathematics Advanced and Mathematics Extension 1.
Mathematics Extension 2 provides a basis for a wide range of applications of mathematics as well as a strong foundation for further study of the subject at tertiary level.