HSC Mathematics. The smart way to prepare for your HSC.

This course is the second in a series of three Mathematics Standard 2 courses and provides consolidation of key content and skills from the first part of Mathematics Standard 2 HSC course. The topics covered in this course include types of Linear Relationships, Budgeting and Investments, introduction to Networks and Measurements.

This course is designed to review key material and also provide advice and tips related to studying and examination technique, in order to maximise student performance.

Other courses in this series include HSC Mathematics Preparation – Standard 2 (Part 1) (January) and HSC Mathematics Preparation – Standard 2 (Part 3) (July). You do not need to attend all three parts in order to benefit. The series is supplemented by the HSC Mathematics – Standard 2 Exam Preparation Course (September) to prepare for end of year exams.

Outcomes

By the end of this course, you should be able to:

• use detailed algebraic and graphical techniques to critically evaluate and construct arguments in a range of familiar and unfamiliar contexts
• interpret the results of measurements and calculations and make judgements about their reasonableness, including the degree of accuracy and the conversion of units where appropriate
• analyse two-dimensional and three-dimensional models to solve practical problems
• make informed decisions about financial situations, including annuities and loan repayments
• solve problems by representing the relationships between changing quantities in algebraic and graphical forms
• choose and use appropriate technology effectively in a range of contexts, and apply critical thinking to recognise appropriate times and methods for such use
• use mathematical argument and reasoning to evaluate conclusions, communicate a position clearly to others and justify a response
• solve problems using networks to model decision-making in practical problems.

Content

The following topics from the Mathematics Standard 2 syllabus will be covered:

• Simultaneous Linear Equations
• Budgeting and Household Expenses
• Investments
• Depreciation and Loans
• Networks
• Shortest paths
• Non-right-angled Trigonometry
• Rates and Ratio

Intended audience

Year 12 students or accelerated Year 11 students who have already completed the previous topics.

Delivery style

Delivered as a two-day activity-based workshop where you will explore and apply mathematical knowledge and skills in a combination of lectures, tutorials and problem-solving sessions. Practice exercises are carefully graded and you will receive immediate feedback. Study skills and examination techniques will also be emphasised.

Materials

You will receive electronic copies using Dropbox of the following:

• course notes including theory and worked examples from the relevant topics
• solutions to all questions in the course notes
• HSC Questions from recent years on the relevant topics, with sample answers provided.

Bring your own device

You are required to bring your own device (Windows or Mac) and a power cord. Please ensure your device is fully charged as access to power is limited.

Please note that University does not carry any responsibility for your lost, stolen, or damaged devices whilst on the University premises.

References

New NESA Mathematics 2 Unit Standard Stage 6 Syllabus (2017)
A4.1,F1.3,F4.1-F4.2,N2.1-N2.2,M6-M7

Course evaluation

This course will be evaluated via an email on-line student questionnaire delivered in class.

Getting Through Your HSC: A Practical Guide

While you progress through this journey and also the conclusion of your schooling life, we know you’ll have a lot on your mind – exams, future study, careers – but remember, while keeping focused on these bigger goals and aspirations, it’s also important not to forget your own health and well-being.

For tips on staying motivated and keeping focused, dealing with anxiety, keeping healthy, relaxation, pre-study exercise and more, read our article Getting Through Your HSC: A Practical Guide.