News and Updates
Joseph Banks Secondary College
February 25, 2025
Mathematics Methods (ATAR)
Course Code: AEMAM/ATMAM
Domain: Maths
Timetable: Semester 1 and 2
Length of Course: 2 Years
Unit Information
The Mathematics Methods ATAR course focuses on the use of calculus and statistical analysis. The study of calculus provides a basis for understanding rates of change in the physical world, and includes the use of functions, their derivatives, and integrals, in modelling physical processes. The study of statistics develops students’ ability to describe and analyse phenomena that involve uncertainty and variation. This course provides a foundation for further studies in disciplines in which mathematics and statistics have important roles. It is also advantageous for further studies in the health and social sciences.
TEA Bonus Points Apply: Ten percent of the final scaled score/s in Mathematics Methods ATAR will be added to the TEA, from which the ATAR is derived.
The Year 11 syllabus is divided into two units, each of one semester duration, which is typically delivered as a pair. In order to study this course, it is desirable that students have completed the topics from 10A Mathematics Australia Curriculum by completing the Year 10 Mathematics for Science and Engineers, Year 10 Specialist A & B, or Year 10 ATAR Maths Preparation courses.
Year 11
Unit One
This unit begins with a review of the basic algebraic concepts and techniques required for a successful
introduction to the study of calculus. The basic trigonometric functions are then introduced. Simple
relationships between variable quantities are reviewed, and these are used to introduce the key concepts of
a function and its graph. The study of inferential statistics begins in this unit with a review of the
fundamentals of probability and the introduction of the concepts of counting, conditional probability and
independence.
Unit Two
The algebra section of this unit focuses on exponentials. Their graphs are examined and their applications in
a wide range of settings are explored. Arithmetic and geometric sequences are introduced and their
applications are studied. Rates and average rates of change are introduced, and this is followed by the key
concept of the derivative as an ‘instantaneous rate of change’. These concepts are reinforced numerically, by
calculating difference quotients both geometrically as slopes of chords and tangents, and algebraically.
Calculus is developed to study the derivatives of polynomial functions, with simple application of the
derivative to curve sketching, the calculation of slopes and equations of tangents, the determination of
instantaneous velocities and the solution of optimisation problems. The unit concludes with a brief
consideration of anti-differentiation.
Year 12
Unit Three
The study of calculus continues with the derivatives of exponential and trigonometric functions and their
applications, together with some differentiation techniques and applications to optimisation problems and
graph sketching. It concludes with integration, both as a process that reverses differentiation and as a way of
calculating areas. The fundamental theorem of calculus as a link between differentiation and integration is
emphasised. In statistics, discrete random variables are introduced, together with their uses in modelling
random processes involving chance and variation. This supports the development of a framework for
statistical inference.
Unit Four
The calculus in this unit deals with derivatives of logarithmic functions. In probability and statistics,
continuous random variables and their applications are introduced and the normal distribution is used in a
variety of contexts. The study of statistical inference in this unit is the culmination of earlier work on
probability and random variables. Statistical inference is one of the most important parts of statistics, in
which the goal is to estimate an unknown parameter associated with a population using a sample of data
drawn from that population. In the Mathematics Methods ATAR course, statistical inference is restricted to
estimating proportions in two-outcome populations.
Pathway Information
Tertiary
Workforce
Students undertaking this course may wish to consider tertiary studies in:
- Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences (Majoring in Applied Mathematics or Statistics)
- Bachelor of Engineering
- Bachelor of Economics
This course suits direct workforce entry into the following:
- Insurance Agent
- Laboratory Worker
Additional Information
Estimated Charges: $60 per year
