General Mathematics provides for different combinations of student interests and preparation for study of VCE Mathematics at the Unit 3 and 4 level.

The areas of study for General Mathematics Unit 1 and Unit 2 are ‘Algebra and structure’, ‘Arithmetic and number’, ‘Discrete mathematics’, ‘Geometry, measurement and trigonometry’, ‘Graphs of linear and non-linear relations’ and ‘Statistics’. For Units 1 and 2, to suit the range of students entering the study, content must be selected from the six areas of study.

In undertaking these units, students are expected to be able to apply techniques, routines and processes involving rational and real arithmetic, sets, lists and tables, diagrams and geometric constructions, algebraic manipulation, equations and graphs with and without the use of technology. They should have facility with relevant mental and by-hand approaches to estimation and computation. The use of numerical, graphical, geometric, symbolic, financial and statistical functionality of technology for teaching and learning mathematics, for working mathematically, and in related assessment, is incorporated throughout each unit as applicable.

Topics for Study

• Computation and Practical Arithmetic
• Linear Equations and Relations
• Linear Graphs and Models
• Investigating and Comparing Distributions
• Investigating Relationships
• Number Patterns and Recursion
• Graphs and Networks
• Inequalities and Linear Programming
• Shape and Measurement
• Applications of trigonometry

Outcome 1

On completion of this unit the student should be able to define and explain key concepts as specified in the selected content from the areas of study, and apply a range of related mathematical routines and procedures.

Outcome 2

On completion of each unit the student should be able to select and apply mathematical facts, concepts, models and techniques from the topics covered in the unit to investigate and analyse extended application problems in a range of contexts.

Outcome 3

On completion of this unit the student should be able to select and use numerical, graphical, symbolic and statistical functionalities of technology to develop mathematical ideas, produce results and carry out analysis in situations requiring problem-solving, modelling or investigative techniques or approaches.

Assessment

Satisfactory completion

The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on a decision that the student has demonstrated achievement of the set of outcomes specified for the unit. This decision will be based on the teacher’s assessment of the student’s performance on assessment tasks designated for the unit.

Levels of achievement

Units 1 and 2

Emmaus College students complete graded Assessment Tasks and Semester Examinations as part of the Assessment process for Units 1 and 2..