The study of mathematics is mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10.
By studying mathematics, students learn to work mathematically – developing fluency, understanding, problem-solving, reasoning and communication skills.
The syllabus consists of the following strands:
- number and algebra
- measurement and geometry
- statistics and probability.
In Year 11 and 12, the study of mathematics is optional. Courses offered include:
- Mathematics Extension 2 (Year 12 only)
- Mathematics Extension 1
- Mathematics Advanced
- Mathematics Standard 2
- Mathematics Standard 1 (Optional HSC examination)
- Mathematics Life Skills.
The Mathematics Faculty at Scone High School is a very hardworking and professional group of teachers. Together, they have years of invaluable experience and that youthful enthusiasm necessary for implementing new initiatives. Traditionally, results obtained by SHS students in Mathematics ( HSC, SC, NAPLAN, SNAP and other competitions ) have been very good.
At a senior level, students at SHS are encouraged to study the highest level of Maths that they are capable of. Hence, we are one of the only schools in the district that has offered both Extension 1 and Extension 2 Maths HSC courses every year for at least the last 40 years. Results obtained by our Extension students have always been extremely good and include a large number of Band 6 s. In more recent years, we have also offered a Mathematics Applied course to cater for those students who are not necessarily mathematically inclined, so that they too can experience both engagement and success.
In junior school, we continue to grade our classes based on mathematical ability and potential. We are then better prepared to extend the more able students and offer remedial assistance to those experiencing problems. Regardless of their ability, we encourage each student to work as hard as possible and do as well as possible in this area of their learning that they will utilise for the rest of their lives. We also cater for the development of students' mental skills, so that they do not have to rely on a calculator outside of the classroom.
Every year some students at SHS enter different Mathematics competitions that are conducted. Students enter the Australian Maths Competition, the University of Newcastle based Colin Doyle competition for Year 11 Advanced students and the Hunter based competition for students studying at the lower 5.1 level in Year 10. We also participate in the Hunter based Gifted and Talented workshop. We regularly conduct school based workshops including the Start Smart financial experience and the hands-on World of Maths group. Our students can also strive to join the elite Maths 100 Club, by scoring 100% in a Maths test or assignment.
With many students now having access to their own laptops in the classroom, many topics are now being revitalised with the use of available software. Each Maths classroom has a data projector and a smartboard. Every student also has their own password to be able to access McDonalds Maths on Line, a free remedial and extension tutoring program. We are currently investigating the possible acquisition of the Mathletics program, again for the benefit of all students.
The Mathematics Faculty at SHS is very proud of the high profile that we possess, both within the school and in the wider community.