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MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT

Mathematics is a tool and a language.  It develops the ability to reason logically and to analyze and solve   problems. It is a symbolic language with   distinct form.

At Lyneham High School mathematics is a four year course where the five strands of SPACE, NUMBER, CHANCE AND DATA, MEASUREMENT and ALGEBRA are studied each year in a unit suited to the mathematical experience and ability of the student.

In the junior years we have LEAP, general and modified level courses.  In the senior years we have LEAP and Level 1, 2 and 3 courses.

As well as a strong focus on the important basic content of mathematics there is also a focus on the processes of MATHEMATICAL INQUIRY, COMMUNICATION and APPLICATION.

Use of computer programs such as FXGraph, Microsoft Excel and Myclasses are used as appropriate across the mathematics curriculum.

A new problem solving software package has also proven to be popular among students of all year groups and ability levels.

Calculators, both basic, scientific and graphical (Year 8 and above) are also used as appropriate across the curriculum. The effective use of the functions of the calculator is taught as needed with each topic.

ASSESSMENT

For LEAP, Level 1

· 50%  Term Tests - one per term to assess content competency

· 25% assignments - one per term toassess process skill level 

· 25%  homework, bookwork, journal work,  topic tests, investigations

For Level 2, Year 7 and Year 8 general

 · 50%  Topic Tests - one per topic to assess content competency

 · 30% assignments - one per term to assess process skill  level

 · 20%  homework, bookwork, journal work, topic tests, investigations

For Level 3 and Modified

  • Negotiated at the start of the semester  published in Unit Outlines, distributed to students and posted on myclasses webpage.

COMPETITIONS 

For students with a particular interest and talent for mathematics provides access to:

  • The Westpac Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC)
  • The Challenge Stage of the AMC
  • The Enrichment Stage of the AMC
  • Tournament of the Towns