Essential Mathematics 2019 v1.

1
Applied Senior Syllabus

This syllabus is for implementation with Year 11 students in 2019.

170356
Contents
1 Course overview __________________________________ 1
1.1 Introduction............................................................................................... 1
1.1.1 Rationale ......................................................................................................... 1
1.1.2 Learning area structure................................................................................... 3
1.1.3 Course structure ............................................................................................. 4
1.2 Teaching and learning .............................................................................. 6
1.2.1 Syllabus objectives ......................................................................................... 6
1.2.2 Underpinning factors....................................................................................... 7
1.2.3 Aboriginal perspectives and Torres Strait Islander perspectives ................. 10
1.2.4 Pedagogical and conceptual frameworks..................................................... 11
1.2.5 Subject matter ............................................................................................... 16
1.3 Assessment — general information ........................................................ 17
1.3.1 Formative assessments — Units 1 and 2..................................................... 17
1.3.2 Summative assessments — Units 3 and 4................................................... 17
1.4 Exiting a course of study ........................................................................ 18
1.4.1 Exit folios ....................................................................................................... 18
1.4.2 Determining an exit result ............................................................................. 19
1.5 Reporting standards ............................................................................... 19

2 Unit 1: Number, data and graphs ___________________ 21

2.1 Unit description ....................................................................................... 21
2.2 Unit objectives ........................................................................................ 21
2.3 Fundamental topic: Calculations ............................................................ 22
2.4 Topic 1: Number ..................................................................................... 22
2.5 Topic 2: Representing data .................................................................... 23
2.6 Topic 3: Graphs ...................................................................................... 23
2.7 Assessment guidance ............................................................................ 24

3 Unit 2: Money, travel and data ______________________ 25

3.1 Unit description ....................................................................................... 25
3.2 Unit objectives ........................................................................................ 25
3.3 Fundamental topic: Calculations ............................................................ 26
3.4 Topic 1: Managing money ...................................................................... 26
3.5 Topic 2: Time and motion ....................................................................... 26
3.6 Topic 3: Data collection .......................................................................... 27
3.7 Assessment guidance ............................................................................ 28
4 Unit 3: Measurement, scales and data _______________ 29
4.1 Unit description ....................................................................................... 29
4.2 Unit objectives ........................................................................................ 29
4.3 Fundamental topic: Calculations ............................................................ 30
4.4 Topic 1: Measurement ............................................................................ 30
4.5 Topic 2: Scales, plans and models ......................................................... 31
4.6 Topic 3: Summarising and comparing data ............................................ 32
4.7 Assessment ............................................................................................ 32
4.7.1 Summative internal assessment 1: Problem-solving and modelling
task ............................................................................................................... 32
4.7.2 Summative internal assessment 2: Common internal assessment ............. 36

5 Unit 4: Graphs, chance and loans ___________________ 38

5.1 Unit description ....................................................................................... 38
5.2 Unit objectives ........................................................................................ 38
5.3 Fundamental topic: Calculations ............................................................ 39
5.4 Topic 1: Bivariate graphs ........................................................................ 39
5.5 Topic 2: Probability and relative frequencies .......................................... 40
5.6 Topic 3: Loans and compound interest................................................... 40
5.7 Assessment ............................................................................................ 41
5.7.1 Summative internal assessment 3: Problem-solving and modelling
task ............................................................................................................... 41
5.7.2 Summative internal assessment 4: Examination ......................................... 44

6 Glossary _______________________________________ 48
7 References _____________________________________ 73
 1 Course overview
1.1 Introduction
1.1.1 Rationale
Mathematics is a unique and powerful intellectual discipline that is used to investigate patterns,
order, generality and uncertainty. It is a way of thinking in which problems are explored and
solved through observation, reflection and logical reasoning. It uses a concise system of
communication, with written, symbolic, spoken and visual components. Mathematics is creative,
requires initiative and promotes curiosity in an increasingly complex and data-driven world. It is
the foundation of all quantitative disciplines.
To prepare students with the knowledge, skills and confidence to participate effectively in the
community and the economy requires the development of skills that reflect the demands of the
21st century. Students undertaking Mathematics will develop their critical and creative thinking,
oral and written communication, information & communication technologies (ICT) capability,
ability to collaborate, and sense of personal and social responsibility — ultimately becoming
lifelong learners who demonstrate initiative when facing a challenge. The use of technology to
make connections between mathematical theory, practice and application has a positive effect on
the development of conceptual understanding and student disposition towards mathematics.
Mathematics teaching and learning practices range from practising essential mathematical
routines to develop procedural fluency, through to investigating scenarios, modelling the real
world, solving problems and explaining reasoning. When students achieve procedural fluency,
they carry out procedures flexibly, accurately and efficiently. When factual knowledge and
concepts come to mind readily, students are able to make more complex use of knowledge to
successfully formulate, represent and solve mathematical problems. Problem-solving helps to
develop an ability to transfer mathematical skills and ideas between different contexts. This
assists students to make connections between related concepts and adapt what they already
know to new and unfamiliar situations. With appropriate effort and experience, through
discussion, collaboration and reflection of ideas, students should develop confidence and
experience success in their use of mathematics.
The major domains of mathematics in Essential Mathematics are Number, Data, Location and
time, Measurement and Finance. Teaching and learning builds on the proficiency strands of the
P–10 Australian Curriculum. Students develop their conceptual understanding when they
undertake tasks that require them to connect mathematical concepts, operations and relations.
They will learn to recognise definitions, rules and facts from everyday mathematics and data, and
to calculate using appropriate mathematical processes.
Students will benefit from studies in Essential Mathematics because they will develop skills that
go beyond the traditional ideas of numeracy. This is achieved through a greater emphasis on
estimation, problem-solving and reasoning, which develops students into thinking citizens who
interpret and use mathematics to make informed predictions and decisions about personal and
financial priorities. Students will see mathematics as applicable to their employability and
lifestyles, and develop leadership skills through self-direction and productive engagement in their
learning. They will show curiosity and imagination, and appreciate the benefits of technology.
Students will gain an appreciation that there is rarely one way of doing things and that real-world
mathematics requires adaptability and flexibility.

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 Assumed knowledge, prior learning or experience
Assumed knowledge refers to the subject matter that teachers can expect students to know prior
to beginning this subject. Emphasis is placed on the mastery of subject matter, ensuring key
concepts or procedures are learnt fully so they will not need reteaching.
Developing mastery often involves multiple approaches to teaching and conceptualising the same
mathematical concept. When students have a good understanding of a key concept or procedure,
they are more easily able to make connections to related new subject matter and apply what they
already know to new problems.
Subject matter from previous unit/s is assumed for subsequent unit/s.
The following is a non-exhaustive list of assumed knowledge from the P–10 Australian Curriculum
that must be learnt or revised and maintained as required:
• recall concepts of number and its operations, percentages, money, rates and ratios
• read and use graphs and scales
• recall concepts of probability, data collection and statistical data representations
• use a scientific calculator and other technology, where appropriate
• substitute numbers into formulas
• translate word problems to mathematical form.

Pathways
Essential Mathematics is an Applied subject suited to students who are interested in pathways
beyond Year 12 that lead to tertiary studies, vocational education or work. A course of study in
Essential Mathematics can establish a basis for further education and employment in the fields of
trade, industry, business and community services. Students will learn within a practical context
related to general employment and successful participation in society, drawing on the
mathematics used by various professional and industry groups.

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 1.1.2 Learning area structure
All learning areas build on the P–10 Australian Curriculum.

Figure 1: Learning area structure

P–10 Australian Curriculum

Mathematics

Senior Secondary
Mathematics
Learning Area

General Applied
• results may contribute to an • no more than one Applied subject
Australian Tertiary Admission Rank can contribute to an ATAR
(ATAR) calculation calculation
• results contribute to the Queensland • results contribute to the QCE
Certificate of Education (QCE)
• includes external assessment

General Mathematics Essential Mathematics

Mathematical Methods

Specialist Mathematics

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 1.1.3 Course structure
Essential Mathematics is a course of study consisting of four units. Subject matter, learning
experiences and assessment increase in complexity from Units 1 and 2 to Units 3 and 4 as
students develop greater independence as learners.
Units 1 and 2 provide foundational learning, which allows students to experience all syllabus
objectives and begin engaging with the course subject matter. Students should complete Units 1
and 2 before beginning Unit 3. It is recommended that Unit 3 be completed before Unit 4.
Units 3 and 4 consolidate student learning. Only the results from Units 3 and 4 will contribute to
ATAR calculations.
Students who complete this course of study with a grade of C or better will meet the numeracy
requirement for QCE and should also be able to demonstrate numeracy competencies equivalent
to the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF) 1 Level 3.
Subject matter that is denoted by ‘[complex]’ is considered to be complex and indicates alignment
to ACSF Level 4 or higher. All other subject matter is considered to be simple and indicates
alignment to ACSF Level 3.
Students who demonstrate attainment of simple subject matter only will be able to achieve a
maximum of a C grade overall. Figure 2 outlines the structure of this course of study.
Each unit has been developed with a notional time of 55 hours of teaching and learning, including
assessment.

1
https://www.education.gov.au/australian-core-skills-framework

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 Figure 2: Course structure

Essential Mathematics

Unit 1 Unit 2 Unit 3 Unit 4

Number, data and Money, travel and Measurement, Graphs, chance
graphs data scales and data and loans
• Fundamental topic: • Fundamental topic: • Fundamental topic: • Fundamental topic:
Calculations Calculations Calculations Calculations
• Topic 1: Number • Topic 1: Managing • Topic 1: • Topic 1: Bivariate
• Topic 2: money Measurement graphs
Representing data • Topic 2: Time and • Topic 2: Scales, • Topic 2: Probability
• Topic 3: Graphs motion plans and models and relative
• Topic 3: Data • Topic 3: frequencies
collection Summarising and • Topic 3: Loans and
comparing data compound interest

Assessment Assessment Assessment Assessment

Formative internal Formative internal Summative internal Summative internal
assessment/s assessment/s assessment 1: assessment 3:
Problem-solving and Problem-solving and
modelling task modelling task

Summative internal Summative internal

assessment 2: assessment 4:
Common internal Examination
assessment

Students should have opportunities in Units 1

and 2 to experience and respond to the types of
assessment they will encounter in Units 3 and 4.
For reporting purposes, schools should develop
at least one assessment per unit, with a
maximum of four assessments across Units 1
and 2.

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1.2 Teaching and learning
1.2.1 Syllabus objectives
The syllabus objectives outline what students have the opportunity to learn. Assessment provides
evidence of how well students have achieved the objectives.
Syllabus objectives inform unit objectives, which are contextualised for the subject matter and
requirements of the unit. Unit objectives, in turn, inform the assessment objectives, which are
further contextualised for the requirements of the assessment instruments. The number of each
objective remains constant at all levels, i.e. Syllabus objective 1 relates to Unit objective 1 and to
Assessment objective 1 in each assessment instrument.
Syllabus objectives are described in terms of actions that operate on the subject matter. Students
are required to use a range of cognitive processes in order to demonstrate and meet the syllabus
objectives. These cognitive processes are described in the explanatory paragraph following each
objective in terms of four levels: retrieval, comprehension, analytical processes (analysis), and
knowledge utilisation, with each process building on the previous processes (see Marzano &
Kendall 2007, 2008). That is, comprehension requires retrieval, and knowledge utilisation
requires retrieval, comprehension and analytical processes (analysis).
By the conclusion of the course of study, students will:

Syllabus objective Unit 1 Unit 2 Unit 3 Unit 4

1. select, recall and use facts, rules, definitions and procedures

drawn from Number, Data, Location and time, Measurement ● ● ● ●
and Finance

2. comprehend mathematical concepts and techniques drawn

from Number, Data, Location and time, Measurement and ● ● ● ●
Finance

3. communicate using mathematical, statistical and everyday

● ● ● ●
language and conventions

4. evaluate the reasonableness of solutions ● ● ● ●

5. justify procedures and decisions by explaining mathematical

● ● ● ●
reasoning

6. solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and

techniques drawn from Number, Data, Location and time, ● ● ● ●
Measurement and Finance.

1. select, recall and use facts, rules, definitions and procedures drawn from Number,
Data, Location and time, Measurement and Finance
When students select, recall and use facts, rules, definitions and procedures, they recognise
particular features of remembered information and consider its accuracy and relevance. They
present facts, rules, definitions and procedures and put them into effect, performing
calculations with and without the use of technology.
2. comprehend mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from Number, Data,
Location and time, Measurement and Finance
When students comprehend, they understand the meaning, nature and purpose of the
mathematics they are learning. They identify, articulate and symbolise the critical elements of
the relevant concepts and techniques, making connections between topics and between the
‘why’ and the ‘how’ of mathematics.

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 3. communicate using mathematical, statistical and everyday language and conventions
When students communicate, they use mathematical and statistical terminology, symbols,
conventions and everyday language to organise and present information in graphical and
symbolic form, and describe and represent mathematical and statistical models.
4. evaluate the reasonableness of solutions
When students evaluate the reasonableness of solutions, they interpret their mathematical
results in the context of the situation. They reflect on whether the problem has been solved
by using estimation skills and checking calculations, using their knowledge of relevant facts,
rules, definitions and procedures. They make an appraisal by assessing strengths,
implications and limitations of solutions and/or models with and without technology, and use
this to consider if alternative methods or refinements are required.
5. justify procedures and decisions by explaining mathematical reasoning
When students justify procedures and decisions by explaining mathematical reasoning, they
describe their mathematical thinking in detail, identifying causes and making relationships
evident, constructing mathematical arguments and providing reasons for choices made and
conclusions reached. Students use their conceptual understanding to connect what they
already know to new information. Mathematical reasoning is rigorous and requires clarity,
precision, completeness and due regard to the order of statements.
6. solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from
Number, Data, Location and time, Measurement and Finance
When students solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and techniques, they
analyse the context of the problem and make decisions about the concepts, techniques and
technology that must be used to develop a solution. They analyse, generalise and translate
information into a mathematically workable format, synthesise and refine models, and
generate and test hypotheses with primary or secondary data and information.

1.2.2 Underpinning factors

There are three skill sets that underpin senior syllabuses and are essential for defining the
distinctive nature of subjects:
• literacy — the set of knowledge and skills about language and texts essential for
understanding and conveying Essential Mathematics content
• numeracy — the knowledge, skills, behaviours and dispositions that students need to use
mathematics in a wide range of situations, to recognise and understand the role of
mathematics in the world, and to develop the dispositions and capacities to use mathematical
knowledge and skills purposefully
• 21st century skills — the attributes and skills students need to prepare them for higher
education, work and engagement in a complex and rapidly changing world.
These skill sets, which overlap and interact, are derived from current education, industry and
community expectations. They encompass the knowledge, skills, capabilities, behaviours and
dispositions that will help students live and work successfully in the 21st century.
Together these three skill sets shape the development of senior subject syllabuses. Although
coverage of each skill set may vary from syllabus to syllabus, students should be provided with
opportunities to learn through and about these skills over the course of study. Each skill set
contains identifiable knowledge and skills that can be directly assessed.

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 Literacy in Essential Mathematics
Literacy skills and strategies enable students to express, interpret and communicate complex
mathematical information, ideas and processes. Mathematics provides a specific and rich context
for students to develop their abilities to read, write, visualise and talk about complex situations
involving a range of mathematical ideas.
Students can apply and further develop their literacy skills and strategies by shifting between
verbal, graphic, numerical and symbolic forms of representing problems in order to formulate,
understand and solve problems and communicate results. This process of translation across
different systems of representation is essential for complex mathematical reasoning and
expression. Students learn to communicate their findings in different ways, using multiple
systems of representation and data displays to illustrate the relationships they have observed or
constructed.
To understand and use Essential Mathematics content, teaching and learning strategies include:
• breaking the language code to make meaning of Essential Mathematics language and texts
• comprehending language and texts to make literal and inferred meanings about Essential
Mathematics content
• using Essential Mathematics ideas and information in classroom, real-world and/or lifelike
contexts to progress students’ learning.
To analyse and evaluate Essential Mathematics content, teaching and learning strategies include:
• making conclusions about the purpose and audience of Essential Mathematics language and
texts
• analysing the ways language is used to convey ideas and information in Essential
Mathematics texts
• transforming language and texts to convey Essential Mathematics ideas and information in
particular ways to suit audience and purpose.
These aspects of literacy knowledge and skills are embedded in the syllabus objectives, unit
objectives and subject matter, and instrument-specific standards for Essential Mathematics.

Numeracy in Essential Mathematics

Numeracy relates to the capacity to deal with quantitative aspects of life (Goos, Geiger & Dole
2012). It involves accessing, using, interpreting and communicating mathematical information and
ideas when engaging with and managing the mathematical demands of real contexts — everyday
and civic life, the world of work, and opportunities for further learning (OECD 2012). Numerate
citizens who are constructive, engaged and reflective are able to use mathematics to help make
credible judgments and reasoned decisions (OECD 2015).
Unlike mathematics, numeracy must be understood as inseparable from context:
Mathematics climbs the ladder of abstraction to see, from sufficient height, common patterns in seemingly
different things. Abstraction is what gives mathematics its power; it is what enables methods derived in
one context to be applied in others. But abstraction is not the focus of numeracy. Instead, numeracy clings
to specifics, marshalling all relevant aspects of setting and context to reach conclusions.
To enable students to become numerate, teachers must encourage them to see and use mathematics in
everything they do. Numeracy is driven by issues that are important to people in their lives and work, not
by future needs of the few who may make professional use of mathematics or statistics (Steen 2001,
pp. 17–18).

The students who undertake Essential Mathematics will continue to develop their numeracy skills
at a more sophisticated level than in P–10. For example, this subject contains financial

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 applications of mathematics that will assist students to become literate consumers of investment,
loan and superannuation products. It also contains statistics topics that will equip students for the
ever-increasing demands of the information age. Students will also learn about the probability of
certain events occurring and will therefore be well equipped to make informed decisions about
gambling.
These aspects of numeracy knowledge and skills are embedded in the syllabus objectives, unit
objectives and subject matter, and instrument-specific standards for Essential Mathematics.

21st century skills

The 21st century skills identified in the following table reflect a common agreement, both in
Australia and internationally, on the skills and attributes students need to prepare them for higher
education, work and engagement in a complex and rapidly changing world.

21st century Associated skills 21st century Associated skills

skills skills

• analytical thinking • innovation

• problem-solving • initiative and enterprise
• decision-making • curiosity and imagination
• reasoning • creativity
critical thinking • reflecting and evaluating creative thinking • generating and applying
• intellectual flexibility new ideas
• identifying alternatives
• seeing or making new
links

• effective oral and written • relating to others

communication (interacting with others)
• using language, symbols • recognising and using
and texts collaboration and diverse perspectives
communication
teamwork
• communicating ideas • participating and
effectively with diverse contributing
audiences • community connections

• adaptability/flexibility • operations and concepts

• management (self, career, • accessing and analysing
time, planning and information
organising) • being productive users of
• character (resilience, technology
mindfulness, open- and information &
• digital citizenship (being
personal and fair-mindedness, self- communication
safe, positive and
social skills awareness) technologies (ICT)
responsible online)
skills
• leadership
• citizenship
• cultural awareness
• ethical (and moral)
understanding

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 Essential Mathematics helps develop the following 21st century skills:
• critical thinking
• creative thinking
• communication
• information & communication technologies (ICT) skills.
These elements of 21st century skills are embedded in the syllabus objectives, unit objectives
and subject matter, and instrument-specific standards for Essential Mathematics.

Use of digital technology

An important aspect of teaching and learning in the 21st century is to embed digital technologies
so that they are not seen as optional tools. Digital technologies allow new approaches to
explaining and presenting mathematics, and can assist in connecting representations and
deepening understanding. They can make previously inaccessible mathematics accessible and
increase the opportunities for teachers to make mathematics interesting to a wider range of
students. The computational and graphing capabilities of digital technologies enable students to
engage in active learning through exploratory work and experiments using realistic data. The
ability to visualise solutions can give problems more meaning. Digital technologies can support
the development of conceptual understanding that can lead to enhanced procedural fluency.
To meet the requirements of this syllabus, students must make use of a range of digital
technologies, such as:
• general-purpose computer software that can be used for mathematics teaching and learning,
e.g. spreadsheet software, applications
• computer software designed for mathematics teaching and learning, e.g. dynamic graphing
software, dynamic geometry software
• hand-held (calculator) technologies designed for mathematics teaching and learning,
e.g. scientific, graphics (non-CAS or CAS) calculators, smartphone and tablet apps.
Students must make choices about various forms of technology and develop the ability to work
with these flexibly. Technology use must go beyond simple computation or word processing.
Access to a handheld scientific calculator is a requirement for all assessments.

1.2.3 Aboriginal perspectives and Torres Strait Islander

perspectives
The QCAA is committed to reconciliation in Australia. As part of its commitment, the QCAA
affirms that:
• Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples are the first Australians, and have the
oldest living cultures in human history
• Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples have strong cultural traditions and speak
diverse languages and dialects, other than Standard Australian English
• teaching and learning in Queensland schools should provide opportunities for students to
deepen their knowledge of Australia by engaging with the perspectives of Aboriginal peoples
and Torres Strait Islander peoples
• positive outcomes for Aboriginal students and Torres Strait Islander students are supported by
successfully embedding Aboriginal perspectives and Torres Strait Islander perspectives
across planning, teaching and assessing student achievement.

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 Guidelines about Aboriginal perspectives and Torres Strait Islander perspectives and resources
for teaching are available at www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/k-12-policies/aboriginal-torres-strait-islander-
perspectives.
Where appropriate, Aboriginal perspectives and Torres Strait Islander perspectives have been
embedded in the subject matter.
In Mathematics, students have the opportunity to gain an awareness of the contributions of
Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples at local, regional, national and global levels
through contextualisation of the subject matter.
To understand and use mathematics content, teaching and learning strategies may include:
• using pedagogies such Maths as Storytelling (MAST) 2
• using mathematics subject matter in real-world Aboriginal contexts and Torres Strait Islander
contexts
• identifying the specific Aboriginal issues and Torres Strait Islander issues relevant to the
mathematics topics being covered
• providing learning experiences and opportunities that support the application of students’
general mathematical knowledge and problem-solving processes in an Aboriginal context and
Torres Strait Islander context.

1.2.4 Pedagogical and conceptual frameworks

The relationship between foundational knowledge and problem-solving
To succeed in mathematics assessment, students must understand the subject matter (organised
in domains of mathematics), draw on a range of cognitive skills, and apply these to problems of
varying degrees of difficulty, from simple and routine, through to unfamiliar situations, complex
contexts, and multi-step solutions (Grønmo et al. 2015).The relationship between the domains of
mathematics in Essential Mathematics, level of cognitive skill required (syllabus objective) and
degree of difficulty is represented in three dimensions for mathematics problems in the following
diagram.

2
https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/downloads/approach2/indigenous_res_culture_and_maths.pdf

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 Figure 3: Assessment pyramid

Principles of developing mathematics problems

This representation, known as the ‘assessment pyramid’, shows the relative distribution of
thinking and range of difficulty of mathematics problems.3 It places an emphasis on building up
from the basics. Success in mathematics is built on knowledge of basic facts and proficiency with
foundational processes (Norton & O’Connor 2016). With a solid foundation, students can then be
asked to apply higher level cognitive processes in more complex and unfamiliar situations that
require the application of a wider range of concepts and skills.

The degree of difficulty

The difficulty of a problem is defined by its complexity and a student’s familiarity with it, not the
level of cognitive process required to solve it. The complexity of a particular type of problem
doesn’t change, but familiarity does. With practice, students become more familiar with a process
and can execute it more quickly and easily (Marzano & Kendall 2007).

The cognitive system

To solve a full range of mathematics problems, students are required to engage the cognitive
system at all four levels of processing knowledge: retrieval, comprehension, analysis and
knowledge utilisation (Marzano & Kendall 2007). The syllabus objectives are represented in the
pyramid model through their alignment to these levels.

3
In an assessment instrument for Mathematics, a ‘problem’ is synonymous with ‘assessment item’ (a question,
task or command that forms part of an assessment technique).

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 Using a full range of questions
The pyramid model shows that problems requiring Level 1 processes to solve them can be hard
and relatively complex, even though they are based on ‘retrieval’ and therefore might seem easy
and straightforward (Shafer & Foster 1997). Problems requiring higher level processes to solve
them are not necessarily more difficult than those in Level 1. There are some students who find
Level 1 processes more challenging and have more success in solving problems requiring Levels
2, 3 and 4 (Webb 2009).
The distance along the domains of mathematics dimension and the degree of difficulty dimension
decreases for higher levels. Problems requiring Level 1 processes can more easily be based on
distinct subject matter and the difference between easy and hard can be great. Problems that
require students to use more levels of cognition tend to also involve making connections with
subject matter within and across the domains of mathematics. They are often placed in contexts
that require strategic mathematical decisions and making representations according to situation
and purpose. At higher levels the difference between easy and hard is smaller (Shafer & Foster
1997; Webb 2009). Students should master basic facts and processes through practising simple
familiar problems, before moving on to those that are more complex and unfamiliar, at any level. 4
The assessment pyramid helps visualise what is necessary for a complete assessment program.
Problems in a complete mathematics program need to assess a student’s growth and
achievement in all areas of subject matter and across the full range of objectives. Over time,
through a teaching and learning period, students will be exposed to problems that ‘fill the
pyramid’. Each assessment instrument will reflect this for the relevant subject matter, providing
students with the opportunity to demonstrate what they know and can do at all levels of thinking
and at varying degrees of difficulty (Shafer & Foster 1997).

Problem-solving and mathematical modelling

A key aspect of learning mathematics is to develop strategic competence; that is, to formulate,
represent and solve mathematical problems (Kilpatrick, Swafford & Bradford 2001). As such,
problem-solving is a focus of mathematics education research, curriculum and teaching (Sullivan
2011). This focus is not to the exclusion of routine exercises, which are necessary for practising,
attaining mastery and being able to respond automatically. But mathematics education in the 21st
century goes beyond this to include innovative problems that are complex, unfamiliar and non-
routine (Mevarech & Kramarski 2014).
Problem-solving in mathematics can be set in purely mathematical contexts or real-world
contexts. When set in the real world, problem-solving in mathematics involves mathematical
modelling.

Problem-solving
Problem-solving is required when a task or goal has limiting conditions placed upon it or an
obstacle blocking the path to a solution (Marzano & Kendall 2007). It involves:
• knowledge of the relevant details
• using generalisations and principles to identify, define and interpret the problem
• mental computation and estimation
4
Complex unfamiliar questions that require more levels of cognitive skills should not be equated with elaborate
problem-solving tasks and modelling questions only. A single-answer, conventional question, such as: ‘Find the
equation of the line passing through the points (2,1) and (1,3)’ can be adapted to a more open-ended question,
such as: ‘Write the equations of at least five lines passing through the point (2,1)’ (Goos 2014). This revised
question targets the identical subject matter but provides the possibility of easily identifying diverse student
understanding and skills by moving it towards complex unfamiliar questions and assessing more cognitive skills.
For further examples, see White et al. (2000).

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 • critical, creative and lateral thinking
• creating or choosing a strategy
• making decisions
• testing, monitoring and evaluating solutions.
Problem-solving requires students to explain their mathematical thinking and develop strong
conceptual foundations. They must do more than follow set procedures and mimic examples
without understanding. Through problem-solving, students will make connections between
mathematics topics, across the curriculum and with the real world, and see the value and
usefulness of mathematics. Problems may be real world or abstract, and presented to students
as issues, statements or questions that may require them to use primary or secondary data.

Mathematical modelling
Mathematical modelling begins from an assumption that mathematics is everywhere in the world
around us — a challenge is to identify where it is present, access it and apply it productively.
Models are developed in order to better understand real-world phenomena, to make predictions
and answer questions. A mathematical model depicts a situation by expressing relationships
using mathematical concepts and language. It refers to the set of simplifying assumptions (such
as the relevant variables or the shape of something); the set of assumed relationships between
variables; and the resulting representation (such as a formula) that can be used to generate an
answer (Stacey 2015).
Mathematical modelling involves:
• formulating a mathematical representation of a problem derived from within a real-world
context
• using mathematics concepts and techniques to obtain results
• interpreting the results by referring back to the original problem context
• revising the model (where necessary) (Geiger, Faragher & Goos 2010).
Through developing and applying mathematical models, students cumulatively become real-world
problem-solvers. Ultimately, this means that not only can they productively address problems set
by others, but also that they develop the ability to identify and address problems and answer
questions that matter to them.
The following section outlines an approach to problem-solving and mathematical modelling. 5
Problems must be real-world, and can be presented to students as issues, statements or
questions that may require them to use primary or secondary data.

5
A wide variety of frameworks for problem-solving and modelling exist in mathematics education literature.
The approach outlined here aligns with and is informed by other approaches, such as Polya in How to Solve It:
A new aspect of mathematical method (1957), the Australian Curriculum (2015a) Statistical investigation
process, the OECD/PISA Mathematics framework (OECD 2003, 2015) and A framework for success in
implementing mathematical modelling in the secondary classroom (Stillman et al. 2007). For further reading
see Blum et al. (2007), Kaiser et al. (2011) and Stillman et al. (2013).

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 Figure 4: An approach to problem-solving and mathematical modelling
Once students understand what the problem is asking, they must
design a plan to solve the problem. Students translate the problem into
a mathematically purposeful representation by first determining the
applicable mathematical and/or statistical principles, concepts,
techniques and technology that are required to make progress with the
problem. Appropriate assumptions, variables and observations are
identified and documented, based on the logic of a proposed solution
and/or model.
In mathematical modelling, formulating a model involves the process of
mathematisation — moving from the real world to the mathematical
world.

Students select and apply mathematical and/or statistical procedures,

concepts and techniques previously learnt to solve the mathematical
problem to be addressed through their model. Possible approaches are
wide-ranging and include synthesising and refining existing models,
and generating and testing hypotheses with primary or secondary data
and information, as well as using standard mathematical techniques to
produce a valid solution.
Solutions can be found using algebraic, graphic, arithmetic and/or
numeric methods, with and/or without technology.

Once a possible solution has been achieved, students need to consider

the reasonableness of the solution and/or the utility of the model in
terms of the problem. They evaluate their results and make a judgment
about the solution/s to the problem in relation to the original issue,
statement or question.
This involves exploring the strengths and limitations of the solution
and/or model. Where necessary, this will require going back through
the process to further refine the solution and/or model. In mathematical
modelling, students must check that the output of their model provides
a valid solution to the real-world problem it has been designed to
address.
This stage emphasises the importance of methodological rigour and
the fact that problem-solving and mathematical modelling is not usually
linear and involves an iterative process.

The development of solutions and models to abstract and real-world

problems must be capable of being evaluated and used by others and
so need to be communicated clearly and fully. Students communicate
findings systematically and concisely using mathematical, statistical
and everyday language. They draw conclusions, discussing the key
results and the strengths and limitations of the solution and/or model.
Students could offer further explanation, justification and/or
recommendations, framed in the context of the initial problem.

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 Approaches to problem-solving and mathematical modelling in the classroom
When teaching problem-solving and mathematical modelling, teachers should consider teaching
for and learning through problem-solving and mathematical modelling. When teaching for,
students are taught the specific mathematical rules, definitions, procedures, problem-solving
strategies and critical elements of the model that are needed to solve a given problem. When
learning through, students are presented with problems to solve, but must apply the knowledge
and skills they have previously been taught to solve it. By solving these problems, students are
able to develop new mathematical understanding and skills. This requires an explicit and
connected approach to teaching problem-solving and mathematical modelling that necessitates
fluency of critical facts and processes at each step.
The following describes three different approaches to teaching problem-solving and mathematical
modelling along the continua between teaching for and learning through: 6

Teaching for or
Approach Description
learning through

The teacher explicitly demonstrates and teaches the concepts and

techniques required to solve the problem and/or develop a
Dependent Teaching for
mathematical model. This usually involves students solving
(stage 2), and evaluating and verifying (stage 3).

The teacher influences the choice of concepts and techniques,

Moving towards
Guided and/or model that students use to solve the problem. Guidance is
learning through
provided and all stages of the approach are used.

The teacher cedes control and students work independently,

choosing their own solution and/or model, and working at their own
Independent Learning through
level of mathematics. The independent approach is the most
challenging.

These approaches are not mutually exclusive. An independent approach (learning through) might
be undertaken as an extension of a dependent or guided activity that students have previously
undertaken (teaching for). Students need to have attained the relevant foundational
understanding and skills before working independently during the problem-solving and modelling
task (internal assessment). This capacity needs to be built over time through the course of study
with teachers closely monitoring student progress.

1.2.5 Subject matter

Subject matter is the body of information, mental procedures and psychomotor procedures (see
Marzano & Kendall 2007, 2008) that are necessary for students’ learning and engagement with
Essential Mathematics. It is particular to each unit in the course of study and provides the basis
for student learning experiences.
Subject matter has a direct relationship to the unit objectives, but is of a finer granularity and is
more specific. These statements of learning are constructed in a similar way to objectives. Each
statement:
• describes an action (or combination of actions) — what the student is expected to do
• describes the element — expressed as information, mental procedures and/or psychomotor
procedures
• is contextualised for the topic or circumstance particular to the unit.

6
Based on Galbraith (1989).

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 Subject matter in Essential Mathematics is organised into topics and sub-topics. Notional time
allocations have been provided for each sub-topic. Subject matter that is accompanied by
‘[complex]’ is considered to be complex. All other subject matter is considered to be simple.
Students who demonstrate attainment of simple subject matter only will be able to achieve a
maximum of a C grade overall.

1.3 Assessment — general information

Assessments are formative in Units 1 and 2, and summative in Units 3 and 4.

Assessment Unit 1 Unit 2 Unit 3 Unit 4

Formative assessments ● ●

Summative internal assessment 1 ●

Summative internal assessment 2 ●

Summative internal assessment 3 ●

Summative internal assessment 4 ●

1.3.1 Formative assessments — Units 1 and 2

Formative assessments provide feedback to both students and teachers about each student’s
progress in the course of study.
Schools develop internal assessments for each senior subject, based on the learning described in
Units 1 and 2 of the subject syllabus. Each unit objective must be assessed at least once.
For reporting purposes, schools should devise at least two but no more than four assessments for
Units 1 and 2 of this subject. At least one assessment must be completed for each unit.
The sequencing, scope and scale of assessments for Units 1 and 2 are matters for each school
to decide and should reflect the local context.
Teachers are encouraged to use the A–E descriptors in the reporting standards (Section 1.5) to
provide formative feedback to students and to report on progress.

1.3.2 Summative assessments — Units 3 and 4

Students will complete a total of four summative internal assessments that count towards their
overall subject result. Schools develop three of the summative internal assessments and the
other is a common internal assessment (CIA) developed by the QCAA.
These assessments are based on the learning described in Units 3 and 4 of the syllabus and
provide the evidence of student work included in exit folios.

Common internal assessment

The common internal assessment (CIA) is based on the learning described in Unit 3 of the
syllabus. The CIA is:
• developed by the QCAA
• common to all schools
• delivered to schools by the QCAA

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 • administered under supervised conditions flexibly in Unit 3
• marked by the school according to a common marking scheme developed by the QCAA.
The CIA is not privileged over the school-developed assessment.

Summative internal assessment — Instrument-specific standards

This syllabus provides instrument-specific standards for the three summative internal
assessments in Units 3 and 4.
The instrument-specific standards describe the characteristics evident in student responses and
align with the identified assessment objectives. Assessment objectives are drawn from the unit
objectives and are contextualised for the requirements of the assessment instrument.

Criteria
Each instrument-specific standard groups assessment objectives into criteria. An assessment
objective may appear in multiple criteria or in a single criterion of an assessment.

Using instrument-specific standards

The instrument-specific standards identify the evidence at each level (A–E) for each of the
criteria. Teachers use the instrument-specific standards to:
• judge student performance on individual assessments by directly matching the evidence in
responses to fixed reference points that describe the expected qualities of student work
• discuss student responses within a common frame using a shared language
• guide feedback to students through evidence-based discussions, focusing on how they can
critique their own responses and identify goals for improvement and future learning.

Authentication
Schools and teachers must have strategies in place for ensuring that work submitted for internal
summative assessment is the student’s own. Authentication strategies outlined in the QCAA
guidelines, which include guidance for drafting, scaffolding and teacher feedback, must be
adhered to.

1.4 Exiting a course of study

1.4.1 Exit folios
The exit folio is the collection of evidence of student work from Units 3 and 4 that is used to
determine the student’s exit result. Each folio must include:
• three school-developed assessment instruments, and the student responses
• the common internal assessment (CIA), and the student response
• a completed student profile.

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 1.4.2 Determining an exit result
When each student exits the course of study, the school is required to determine an A–E exit
result for them.
Exit results are summative judgments made when students exit the course of study. For most
students, this will be after four units. For these students, judgments are based on exit folios
providing evidence of achievement in relation to all objectives of the syllabus and standards.
For students who exit before completing four units, judgments are made based on the evidence
of achievement to that stage of the course of study.

Awarding an exit result

The result awarded at exit is an on-balance judgment about the quality of learning demonstrated
by students. An on-balance judgment involves teachers making professional decisions about how
the pattern of evidence across the four summative assessments in the folio best matches the
characteristics of the reporting standards at one of the five levels (A–E). This means that it is not
necessary for student responses to have been matched to every characteristic for a particular
standard.
Teachers consider all the evidence in the folio with reference to the reporting standards. If there is
an easy fit or match to one of the five levels (A–E), the on-balance judgment will be obvious. If
there is uneven performance across four assessments, teachers consider the contribution of each
of the assessments and the judgments made on the associated instrument-specific standards,
and decide whether the pattern of evidence of learning is more like an A, B, C, D or E.

1.5 Reporting standards

Reporting standards are summary statements that succinctly describe typical performance at
each of the five levels (A–E). They reflect the cognitive taxonomy and objectives of the course
of study.
The primary purpose of reporting standards is for twice-yearly reporting on student progress and
for determining exit results. These descriptors can also be used to help teachers provide
formative feedback to students and to align instrument-specific standards.

Reporting standards

The student demonstrates a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the simple and complex
subject matter; recognises, recalls and uses facts, rules, definitions and procedures; and comprehends
and applies mathematical concepts and techniques to solve problems drawn from Number, Data,
Location and time, Measurement and Finance.
The student explains mathematical reasoning to justify procedures and decisions; evaluates the
reasonableness of solutions; communicates using mathematical, statistical and everyday language and
conventions; and makes decisions about the choice of technology and uses the technology to solve
simple and complex situations.

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 B

The student demonstrates a thorough knowledge and understanding of the simple and complex subject
matter; recognises, recalls and uses facts, rules, definitions and procedures; and comprehends and
applies mathematical concepts and techniques to solve problems drawn from Number, Data, Location
and time, Measurement and Finance.
The student explains mathematical reasoning to justify simple and complex procedures and decisions;
evaluates the reasonableness of solutions; communicates using mathematical, statistical and everyday
language and conventions; and makes decisions about the choice of technology and uses the technology
to solve simple and complex situations.

The student demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the simple subject matter; recognises, recalls
and uses facts, rules, definitions and procedures; and comprehends and applies mathematical concepts
and techniques to solve problems drawn from Number, Data, Location and time, Measurement and
Finance.
The student explains mathematical reasoning to justify simple procedures and decisions; evaluates the
reasonableness of solutions; communicates using mathematical, statistical and everyday language and
conventions; and uses technology to solve simple situations.

The student demonstrates partial knowledge and understanding of the subject matter; recognises, recalls
and uses some facts, rules, definitions and procedures; and comprehends and applies aspects of
mathematical concepts and techniques to solve some problems drawn from Number, Data, Location and
time, Measurement and Finance.
The student explains some mathematical reasoning to justify procedures and decisions; sometimes
evaluates the reasonableness of solutions; communicates using some mathematical, statistical and
everyday language and conventions; and uses technology to solve situations.

The student: demonstrates isolated knowledge and understanding of the subject matter; infrequently
recognises, recalls and uses some facts, rules, definitions and procedures; and infrequently comprehends
and applies aspects of mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from Number, Data, Location and
time, Measurement and Finance.
The student: infrequently describes aspects of mathematical reasoning relevant to procedures and
decisions; rarely evaluates the reasonableness of solutions; infrequently communicates using some
aspects of mathematical, statistical and everyday language and conventions; and uses aspects of
technology to solve situations.

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 2 Unit 1: Number, data and graphs
2.1 Unit description
In Unit 1, students will develop the mathematical understanding and skills to solve problems
relating to the topics:
• Fundamental topic: Calculations
• Topic 1: Number
• Topic 2: Representing data
• Topic 3: Graphs.
The subject matter of the topics in this unit should be applied in contexts that are meaningful and
of interest to students. A variety of approaches can be used to achieve this purpose. Two
possible contexts that may be used are ‘Mathematics of foods’ and ‘Mathematics of sports’.
However, these contexts may not be relevant to all students. Suitable contexts relevant to the
particular student cohort should be chosen.

Unit requirements
Subject matter describes the concepts, ideas, knowledge, understanding and skills that students
are to learn in Unit 1. It is organised into topics and sub-topics. Notional time allocations have
been provided for each sub-topic.

2.2 Unit objectives

Unit objectives are drawn from the syllabus objectives and are contextualised for the subject
matter and requirements of the unit. Each unit objective is assessed at least once.
Students will:
1. select, recall and use facts, rules, definitions and procedures drawn from all Unit 1 topics
2. comprehend mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from all Unit 1 topics
3. communicate using mathematical, statistical and everyday language and conventions
4. evaluate the reasonableness of solutions
5. justify procedures and decisions by explaining mathematical reasoning
6. solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from all Unit 1
topics.

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2.3 Fundamental topic: Calculations
Calculations should be integrated throughout Unit 1.

Subject matter

Calculations
In this sub-topic, students will:
• solve practical problems requiring basic number operations
• apply arithmetic operations according to their correct order
• ascertain the reasonableness of answers to arithmetic calculations
• use leading-digit approximation to obtain estimates of calculations
• use a calculator for multi-step calculations
• check results of calculations for accuracy
• recognise the significance of place value after the decimal point
• evaluate decimal fractions to the required number of decimal places
• round up or round down numbers to the required number of decimal places
• apply approximation strategies for calculations.

2.4 Topic 1: Number

Subject matter

Ratios (7 hours)
In this sub-topic, students will:
• demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental ideas and notation of ratio
• understand the relationship between fractions and ratio
• express a ratio in simplest form using whole numbers
• find the ratio of two quantities in its simplest form
• divide a quantity in a given ratio [complex]
• use ratio to describe simple scales [complex].

Rates (6 hours)
In this sub-topic, students will:
• review identifying common usage of rates, including km/h
• convert between units for rates
• complete calculations with rates, including solving problems involving direct proportion in terms of rate
[complex]
• use rates to make comparisons
• use rates to determine costs.

Percentages (7 hours)
In this sub-topic, students will:
• calculate a percentage of a given amount
• determine one amount expressed as a percentage of another for same units
• determine one amount expressed as a percentage of another for different units [complex]
• apply percentage increases and decreases in situations, including mark-ups, discounts and GST
[complex]
• determine the overall change in a quantity following repeated percentage changes [complex]
• calculate simple interest for different rates and time periods [complex].

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2.5 Topic 2: Representing data
Subject matter

Classifying data (3 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• identify examples of categorical data
• identify examples of numerical data.

Data presentation and interpretation (8 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• display categorical data in tables and column graphs
• display numerical data as frequency distribution tables, dot plots, stem-and-leaf plots and histograms
• recognise and identify outliers from a dataset
• compare the suitability of different methods of data presentation in real-world contexts [complex].

2.6 Topic 3: Graphs

Subject matter

Reading and interpreting graphs (8 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• interpret information presented in graphs, such as step graphs, column graphs, pie graphs, picture
graphs, conversion graphs of calories ↔ kilojoules, line graphs using units of energy to describe
consumption of electricity, including kilowatt hours
• interpret information presented in two-way tables
• discuss and interpret tables and graphs, including misleading graphs found in the media and in factual
texts [complex].

Drawing graphs (9 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• determine which type of graph is best used to display a dataset
• use spreadsheets to tabulate and graph data [complex]
• draw a line graph to represent any data that demonstrates a continuous change, such as hourly
temperature [complex].

Using graphs (7 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• use graphs in practical situations
• interpret graphs in practical situations [complex]
• draw graphs from given data to represent practical situations [complex]
• interpret the point of intersection and other important features (𝑥𝑥- and 𝑦𝑦-intercepts) of given graphs of
two linear functions drawn from practical contexts [complex].

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2.7 Assessment guidance
In constructing assessment instruments for Unit 1, schools should ensure that the objectives
cover, or are chosen from, the unit objectives. If one assessment instrument is developed for a
unit, it must assess all the unit objectives; if more than one assessment instrument is developed,
the unit objectives must be covered across those instruments.
It is suggested that schools develop:
• a ‘dependent’ problem-solving and modelling task that assesses Unit 1 Topic 2, and
• an internal examination that representatively samples subject matter from Unit 1 not assessed
in the problem-solving and modelling task.

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 3 Unit 2: Money, travel and data
3.1 Unit description
In Unit 2, students will develop the mathematical understanding and skills to solve problems
relating to:
• Fundamental topic: Calculations
• Topic 1: Managing money
• Topic 2: Time and motion
• Topic 3: Data collection.
The subject matter of the topics in this unit should be applied in contexts that are meaningful and
of interest to students. A variety of approaches can be used to achieve this purpose. Two
possible contexts that may be used are ‘Mathematics of independent living’ and ‘Mathematics of
travel’. However, these contexts may not be relevant to all students. Suitable contexts relevant to
the particular student cohort should be chosen.

Unit requirements
Subject matter describes the concepts, ideas, knowledge, understanding and skills that students
are to learn in Unit 2. It is organised in topics and sub-topics. Notional time allocations have been
provided for each sub-topic.

3.2 Unit objectives

Unit objectives are drawn from the syllabus objectives and are contextualised for the subject
matter and requirements of the unit. Each unit objective is assessed at least once.
Students will:
1. select, recall and use facts, rules, definitions and procedures drawn from all Unit 2 topics
2. comprehend mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from all Unit 2 topics
3. communicate using mathematical, statistical and everyday language and conventions
4. evaluate the reasonableness of solutions
5. justify procedures and decisions by explaining mathematical reasoning
6. solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from all Unit 2
topics.

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3.3 Fundamental topic: Calculations
Calculations should be integrated throughout Unit 2.

Subject matter

Calculations
In this sub-topic, students will:
• solve practical problems requiring basic number operations
• apply arithmetic operations according to their correct order
• ascertain the reasonableness of answers to arithmetic calculations
• use leading-digit approximation to obtain estimates of calculations
• use a calculator for multi-step calculations
• check results of calculations for accuracy
• recognise the significance of place value after the decimal point
• evaluate decimal fractions to the required number of decimal places
• round up or round down numbers to the required number of decimal places
• apply approximation strategies for calculations.

3.4 Topic 1: Managing money

Subject matter

Earning money (14 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• find earnings, including salary, wages, overtime, piece-work and commission
• convert between annual, monthly, fortnightly, weekly and hourly rates of earning [complex]
• understand the purpose of superannuation
• interpret entries on a selection of wage or salary pay slips and timesheets
• understand the purpose of taxation and the use of tax file numbers
• use tax tables to determine PAYG tax for periodic (weekly/fortnightly/monthly) earnings [complex]
• interpret entries on a simple PAYG summary
• apply the concepts of taxable income, gross income, allowable deductions and levies in simple contexts
[complex]
• calculate a simple income tax return and net income using current income tax rates [complex].

Budgeting (6 hours)
In this sub-topic, students will:
• investigate the costs involved in independent living [complex]
• prepare a personal budget plan [complex].

3.5 Topic 2: Time and motion

Subject matter

Time (7 hours)
In this sub-topic, students will:
• use units of time and convert between fractional, decimal and digital representations
• represent time using 12-hour and 24-hour clocks
• calculate time intervals, including time between, time ahead, time behind
• interpret timetables for buses, trains and/or ferries

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 • use several timetables and/or electronic technologies to plan the most time-efficient routes
• interpret complex timetables, such as tide charts, sunrise charts and moon phases [complex]
• compare the time taken to travel a specific distance with various modes of transport.

Distance (5 hours)
In this sub-topic, students will:
• use scales to find distances, e.g. on maps
• investigate distances through trial and error or systematic methods [complex]
• apply directions to distances calculated on maps including the eight compass points in relation to the
rising and setting of the sun: N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, NW [complex].

Speed (8 hours)
In this sub-topic, students will:
• identify the appropriate units for different activities, e.g. walking, running, swimming, driving and flying
• use units of energy used for foods, including calories
• use units of energy to describe the amount of energy in activity, including kilojoules.
distance
• calculate speed, distance or time using the formula, speed =
time
• calculate the time and costs for a journey from distances estimated from maps, given a travelling speed
[complex]
• calculate average speed
• interpret distance-versus-time graphs, including reference to the steepness of the slope (or average
speed) [complex].

3.6 Topic 3: Data collection

Subject matter

Census (3 hours)
In this sub-topic, students will:
• investigate the procedure for conducting a census
• investigate the advantages and disadvantages of conducting a census [complex].

Surveys (5 hours)
In this sub-topic, students will:
• understand the purpose of sampling to provide an estimate of population values when a census is not
used
• investigate the different kinds of samples [complex]
• investigate the advantages and disadvantages of these kinds of samples [complex].

Simple survey procedure (4 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• identify the target population to be surveyed
• investigate questionnaire design principles, including simple language, unambiguous questions,
consideration of number of choices, issues of privacy and ethics, and freedom from bias [complex].

Sources of bias (3 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• describe the faults in the process of collecting data
• describe sources of error in surveys, including sampling error and measurement error
• investigate the possible misrepresentation of the results of a survey due to misunderstanding the
procedure or the reliability of generalising the survey findings to the entire population [complex]
• investigate errors and misrepresentation in surveys, including examples of media misrepresentations of
surveys [complex].

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3.7 Assessment guidance
In constructing assessment instruments for Unit 2, schools should ensure that the objectives
cover, or are chosen from, the unit objectives. If one assessment instrument is developed for a
unit, it must assess all the unit objectives; if more than one assessment instrument is developed,
the unit objectives must be covered across those instruments.
It is suggested that schools develop:
• a ‘dependent and/or guided’ problem-solving and modelling task that assesses Unit 2 Topic 2,
and
• an internal examination that representatively samples subject matter from Unit 2 not assessed
in the problem-solving and modelling task.

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 4 Unit 3: Measurement, scales and data
4.1 Unit description
In Unit 3, students will develop the mathematical understanding and skills to solve problems
relating to:
• Fundamental topic: Calculations
• Topic 1: Measurement
• Topic 2: Scales, plans and models
• Topic 3: Summarising and comparing data.
The subject matter of the topics in this unit should be applied in a context that is meaningful and
of interest to students. A variety of approaches can be used to achieve this purpose. Two
possible contexts that may be used in this unit are ‘Mathematics of designs’ and ‘Mathematics of
the media’. However, these contexts may not be relevant to all students. Suitable contexts
relevant to the particular student cohort should be chosen.

Unit requirements
Subject matter describes the concepts, ideas, knowledge, understanding and skills that students
are to learn in Unit 3. It is organised in topics and sub-topics. Notional time allocations have been
provided for each sub-topic.

4.2 Unit objectives

Unit objectives are drawn from the syllabus objectives and are contextualised for the subject
matter and requirements of the unit. Each unit objective is assessed at least once. The objectives
will be evident in the instrument-specific standards.
Students will:

Unit objective IA1 IA2

1. select, recall and use facts, rules, definitions and procedures drawn from all
● ●
Unit 3 topics

2. comprehend mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from all Unit 3

● ●
topics

3. communicate using mathematical, statistical and everyday language and

● ●
conventions

4. evaluate the reasonableness of solutions ● ●

5. justify procedures and decisions by explaining mathematical reasoning ● ●

6. solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and techniques drawn

● ●
from all Unit 3 topics.

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4.3 Fundamental topic: Calculations
Calculations should be integrated throughout Unit 3.

Subject matter

Calculations
In this sub-topic, students will:
• solve practical problems requiring basic number operations
• apply arithmetic operations according to their correct order
• ascertain the reasonableness of answers to arithmetic calculations
• use leading-digit approximation to obtain estimates of calculations
• use a calculator for multi-step calculations
• check results of calculations for accuracy
• recognise the significance of place value after the decimal point
• evaluate decimal fractions to the required number of decimal places
• round up or round down numbers to the required number of decimal places
• apply approximation strategies for calculations.

4.4 Topic 1: Measurement

Subject matter

Geometry (3 hours)
In this sub-topic, students will:
• recognise the properties of common two-dimensional geometric shapes, including squares, rectangles
and triangles, and three-dimensional solids, including cubes, rectangular-based prisms and triangular-
based prisms
• interpret different forms of two-dimensional representations of three-dimensional objects, including nets
of cubes, rectangular-based prisms and triangular-based prisms [complex].

Linear measure (5 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• use metric units of length (millimetres, centimetres, metres, kilometres), their abbreviations (mm, cm, m,
km), conversions between them, and appropriate levels of accuracy and choice of units
• estimate lengths
• calculate perimeters of familiar shapes, including triangles, squares, rectangles, polygons, circles and
arc lengths
• calculate perimeters of familiar composite shapes [complex].

Area measure (9 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• use metric units of area (square millimetres, square centimetres, square metres, square kilometres,
hectares), their abbreviations (mm2, cm2, m2, km2, ha), conversions between them and appropriate
choices of units
• estimate the areas of different shapes
• calculate areas of regular shapes, including triangles, squares, rectangles, parallelograms and circles
• calculate areas of regular shapes, including trapeziums and sectors [complex]
• calculate areas of composite figures by decomposing them into regular shapes [complex]
• calculate surface areas of familiar prisms, including cubes, rectangular and triangular prisms, spheres
and cylinders [complex]
• calculate surface areas of familiar pyramids, including rectangular-based and triangular-based pyramids
[complex]
• calculate surface areas of irregular solids [complex].

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 Volume and capacity (6 hours)
In this sub-topic, students will:
• use metric units of volume (cubic millimetres, cubic centimetres, cubic metres), their abbreviations
(mm3, cm3, m3), conversions between them and appropriate choices of units
• understand and use the relationship between volume and capacity, recognising that 1 cm3 = 1 mL
(millilitre), 1000 cm3 = 1 L (litre), 1 m3 = 1 kL (kilolitre), 1000 kL = 1ML (megalitre)
• estimate volume and capacity of various objects
• calculate the volume and capacity of regular objects, including cubes, rectangular and triangular prisms,
and cylinders
• calculate the volume and capacity of right pyramids, including square-based and rectangular-based
pyramids, and spheres.

Mass (4 hours)
In this sub-topic, students will:
• use metric units of mass (milligrams, grams, kilograms, metric tonnes), their abbreviations (mg, g, kg, t),
conversions between them and appropriate choices of units
• estimate the mass of different objects
• recognise the need for milligrams.

4.5 Topic 2: Scales, plans and models

Subject matter

Interpret scale drawings (6 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• interpret commonly used symbols and abbreviations in scale drawings
• find actual measurements from scale drawings, including lengths, perimeters and areas
• estimate and compare quantities, materials and costs using actual measurements from scale drawings
[complex].

Creating scale drawings (4 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• understand and apply drawing conventions of scale drawings, including scales in ratio, clear indications
of dimensions and clear labelling [complex]
• construct scale drawings by hand and by using software packages [complex].

Right-angled triangles (5 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• apply Pythagoras’ theorem to solve problems for all side lengths using 𝑎𝑎2 + 𝑏𝑏 2 = 𝑐𝑐 2
• apply the tangent, sine and cosine ratios to find unknown angles and sides [complex]
• use the concepts of angle of elevation and angle of depression to solve practical problems [complex].

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4.6 Topic 3: Summarising and comparing data
Subject matter

Summarising and interpreting data (8 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• identify the mode from a dataset
• calculate measures of central tendency, the mean and the median from a dataset
• investigate the suitability of measures of central tendency in various real-world contexts [complex]
• investigate the effect of outliers on the mean and the median [complex]
• calculate quartiles from a dataset [complex]
• interpret quartiles, deciles and percentiles from a graph [complex]
• use everyday language to describe spread, including spread out, dispersed, tightly packed, clusters,
gaps, more/less dense regions, outliers
• calculate and interpret statistical measures of spread, such as the range, interquartile range and
standard deviation [complex]
• investigate real-world examples from the media illustrating inappropriate uses of measures of central
tendency and spread [complex].

Comparing datasets (5 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• complete a five-number summary for different datasets
• construct box plots using a five-number summary
• compare parallel box plots and back-to-back stem plots for different datasets [complex]
• compare the characteristics of the shape of histograms using symmetry, skewness and bimodality,
where applicable [complex].

4.7 Assessment
4.7.1 Summative internal assessment 1: Problem-solving and
modelling task
Description
This assessment focuses on the interpretation, analysis and evaluation of ideas and information.
It is an independent task responding to a particular situation or stimuli. While students may
undertake some research in the writing of the problem-solving and modelling task, it is not the
focus of this technique. This assessment occurs over an extended and defined period of time.
Students will use class time and their own time to develop a response.
The problem-solving and modelling task must use subject matter from Fundamental topic:
Calculations, and at least one of the following topics in Unit 3:
• Topic 1: Measurement
• Topic 2: Scales, plans and models
• Topic 3: Summarising and comparing data.

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 Assessment objectives
This assessment technique is used to determine student achievement in the following objectives:
1. select, recall and use facts, rules, definitions and procedures drawn from Fundamental topic:
Calculations and Unit 3 Topics 1, 2 and/or 3
2. comprehend mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from Fundamental topic:
Calculations and Unit 3 Topics 1, 2 and/or 3
3. communicate using mathematical, statistical and everyday language and conventions
4. evaluate the reasonableness of solutions
5. justify procedures and decisions by explaining mathematical reasoning
6. solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from Fundamental
topic: Calculations and Unit 3 Topics 1, 2 and/or 3.

Specifications

Description
A problem-solving and modelling task is an assessment instrument developed in response to a
mathematical investigative scenario or context. It requires students to respond with a range of
understanding and skills, such as using mathematical language, appropriate calculations, tables
of data, graphs and diagrams.
Students must provide a response to a specific task or issue that must be set in a context that
highlights a real-life application of mathematics. The task requires students to use relevant
stimulus material involving the selected subject matter and must have sufficient scope to allow
students to address all the stages of the problem-solving and modelling approach (see
Section 1.2.4). Technology must be used.

Conditions
• Written:
­ up to 8 pages (including tables, figures and diagrams)
­ maximum of 1000 words
­ appendixes can include raw data, repeated calculations, evidence of authentication and
student notes (appendixes are not to be marked).
• Duration: 5 weeks (including 10 hours of class time).
• Other:
­ opportunity may be provided for group work, but unique responses must be developed by
each student
­ use of technology is required; schools must specify the technology used, e.g. scientific
calculator, graphics calculator, spreadsheet program and/or other mathematical software;
use of technology must go beyond simple computation or word processing
­ the teacher provides the mathematical investigative scenario or context for the problem-
solving and modelling task.

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 Task examples
Examples of problem-solving and modelling tasks include:
• a magazine article laying out the different types of rainwater tanks for particular house
dimensions: Consider the amount of collectable rainfall and water usage at home and make a
recommendation of the most appropriate water tank; make a recommendation for the type of
solar hot water heater (from a choice of four) a house should get based on exposure to
sunlight and hot water use.
• a written persuasive argument/proposal to a manager: Use scales, plans and models to find
the required amount of different materials (such as paint and lighting) and other equipment
when designing the layout of a stage for a particular performance; calculate the ideal
placement of a projector and other lights for a different performance.
• a report on students’ internet use (time, activity, device) compared to the national data
provided by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), and comparing children’s participation in
different activities (e.g. sport and music) in different countries over a period of time.

Summary of the instrument-specific standards

The following table summarises the criteria and assessment objectives for the problem-solving
and modelling task.

Criterion Objectives

Formulate 1, 2 and 5

Solve 1 and 6

Evaluate and verify 4 and 5

Communicate 3

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 Instrument-specific standards — IA1

Formulate Solve Evaluate and verify Communicate Grade

The student work has the following characteristics:

• documentation of appropriate • accurate use of complex • evaluation of the reasonableness of • correct use of appropriate technical
assumptions procedures to reach a valid solutions by considering the results, vocabulary, procedural vocabulary and
• accurate documentation of relevant solution assumptions and observations conventions to develop the response.
observations • discerning application of simple • documentation of relevant strengths • coherent and concise organisation of the
• accurate translation of all simple and and complex mathematical and limitations of the solution response, appropriate to the genre, A
complex aspects of the problem by concepts and techniques relevant and/or model including a suitable introduction, body
identifying mathematical concepts and to the task • justification of decisions made and conclusion.
techniques. • accurate and appropriate use of using mathematical reasoning.
technology.

• statements of appropriate assumptions • use of complex procedures to • statements about the • use of technical vocabulary, procedural
• statements of relevant observations reach a reasonable solution reasonableness of solutions by vocabulary and conventions to develop
• application of simple and complex considering the context of the task the response
• translation of simple and complex
aspects of the problem by identifying mathematical concepts and • statements about relevant strengths • organisation of the response, including a
B
mathematical concepts and techniques. techniques relevant to the task and limitations of the solution suitable introduction, body and
• appropriate use of technology. and/or model conclusion.
• statements about decisions made
relevant to the context of the task.

• statement of assumptions • use of simple procedures to make • statement about the • use of some appropriate language and
• statement of observations some progress towards a solution reasonableness of solutions conventions to develop the response
• translation of simple aspects of the • application of simple mathematical • statement about strengths and/or • adequate organisation of the response.
C
problem by identifying mathematical concepts and techniques relevant limitations of the solution and/or
concepts and techniques. to the task model
• use of technology. • statement about decisions made.

• statement of an assumption or an • application of some simple • statement about a decision and/or • use of everyday language to develop a
observation procedures, mathematical the reasonableness of a solution. response
• translation of some simple aspects of concepts or techniques • basic organisation of the response. D
the problem by identifying mathematical • superficial use of technology.
concepts and techniques.

• statement of an assumption, observation • inappropriate use of technology or • inappropriate statement about a • unclear and disjointed organisation of the
or translation of an aspect of the procedures. decision or the reasonableness of a response. E
problem. solution.

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 4.7.2 Summative internal assessment 2: Common internal
assessment
Description
This assessment is developed by the QCAA and marked internally by the school.
The common internal assessment (CIA) in Essential Mathematics is common to all schools and
administered under controlled conditions, appropriate to the context of the school.
The CIA assists in strengthening reliability and validity in Essential Mathematics. The CIA models
best assessment practice, which teachers can apply to other internal assessments, including the:
• application of assessment standards
• depth of treatment of subject matter.
Schools are able to deliver this assessment with some flexibility in Unit 3 once it has been
provided by the QCAA.

Assessment objectives
This assessment technique is used to determine student achievement in the following objectives:
1. select, recall and use facts, rules, definitions and procedures drawn from all Unit 3 Topics
2. comprehend mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from all Unit 3 Topics
3. communicate using mathematical, statistical and everyday language and conventions
4. evaluate the reasonableness of solutions
5. justify procedures and decisions by explaining mathematical reasoning
6. solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from all Unit 3
Topics.

Specifications

Description
The CIA for Essential Mathematics will representatively sample subject matter from all topics in
Unit 3 only.
The CIA has two parts: simple (Part A) and complex (Part B). It assesses the application of a
range of cognitions to a number of items drawn from all Unit 3 Topics. Student responses must
be completed individually, under supervised conditions, and in a set timeframe.

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 Conditions
• Time: 60 minutes plus 5 minutes perusal
­ Part A: simple
 short response
­ Part B: complex
 short response.
• Length: the number of short-response items should allow students to complete the responses
in the set time.
• Short-response format, consisting of a number of items that ask students to respond to the
following activities:
­ calculating using algorithms
­ drawing, labelling or interpreting graphs, tables or diagrams
­ short items requiring single-word, term, sentence or short paragraph responses
­ justifying solutions using appropriate mathematical language where applicable
­ responding to seen or unseen stimulus materials
­ interpreting ideas and information.
• Other:
­ only the QCAA formula sheet must be provided
­ notes are not permitted.
­ use of technology is required; schools must specify the technology used, e.g. scientific
calculator, graphics calculator, spreadsheet program and/or other mathematical software.

Instrument-specific standards
No instrument-specific standards are provided for this assessment.
A marking guide will be provided with the CIA. Once the CIA has been administered, student
responses are internally marked by the teacher/s using this guide.

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 5 Unit 4: Graphs, chance and loans
5.1 Unit description
In Unit 4, students will develop the mathematical understanding and skills to solve problems
relating to:
• Fundamental topic: Calculations
• Topic 1: Bivariate graphs
• Topic 2: Probability and relative frequencies
• Topic 3: Loans and compound interest.
The subject matter of the topics in this unit should be applied in a context that is meaningful and
of interest to students. Two possible contexts that may be used in this unit are ‘Mathematics of
health’ and ‘Mathematics of home loans’. However, these contexts may not be relevant to all
students. Suitable contexts relevant to the particular student cohort should be chosen.

Unit requirements
Subject matter describes the concepts, ideas, knowledge, understanding and skills that students
are to learn in Unit 4. It is organised in topics and sub-topics. Notional time allocations have been
provided for each sub-topic.

5.2 Unit objectives

Unit objectives are drawn from the syllabus objectives and are contextualised for the subject
matter and requirements of the unit. Each unit objective is assessed at least once. The objectives
will be evident in the instrument-specific standards.
Students will:

Unit objective IA3 IA4

1. select, recall and use facts, rules, definitions and procedures drawn from all
● ●
Unit 4 topics

2. comprehend mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from all Unit 4

● ●
topics

3. communicate using mathematical, statistical and everyday language and

● ●
conventions

4. evaluate the reasonableness of solutions ● ●

5. justify procedures and decisions by explaining mathematical reasoning ● ●

6. solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and techniques drawn

● ●
from all Unit 4 topics.

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5.3 Fundamental topic: Calculations
Calculations should be integrated throughout Unit 4.

Subject matter

Calculations
In this sub-topic, students will:
• solve practical problems requiring basic number operations
• apply arithmetic operations according to their correct order
• ascertain the reasonableness of answers to arithmetic calculations
• use leading-digit approximation to obtain estimates of calculations
• use a calculator for multi-step calculations
• check results of calculations for accuracy
• recognise the significance of place value after the decimal point
• evaluate decimal fractions to the required number of decimal places
• round up or round down numbers to the required number of decimal places
• apply approximation strategies for calculations.

5.4 Topic 1: Bivariate graphs

Subject matter

Cartesian plane (6 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• demonstrate familiarity with Cartesian coordinates in two dimensions by plotting points on the Cartesian
plane
• generate tables of values for linear functions, including for negative values of 𝑥𝑥
• graph linear functions for all values of 𝑥𝑥 with pencil and paper and with graphing software.

Bivariate scatterplots (4 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• describe the patterns and features of bivariate data
• describe the association between two numerical variables in terms of direction (positive/negative), form
(linear/non-linear) and strength (strong/moderate/weak).

Line of best fit (10 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• identify the dependent and independent variable
• find the line of best fit by eye
• use technology to find the line of best fit [complex]
• interpret relationships in terms of the variables [complex]
• use technology to find the correlation coefficient (an indicator of the strength of linear association)
[complex]
• use the line of best fit to make predictions, both by interpolation and extrapolation [complex]
• recognise the dangers of extrapolation [complex]
• distinguish between causality and correlation through examples [complex].

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5.5 Topic 2: Probability and relative frequencies
Subject matter

Simulations (9 hours)
In this sub-topic, students will:
• perform simulations of probability experiments using technology
• recognise that the repetition of chance events is likely to produce different results
• identify relative frequency as probability
• identify factors that could complicate the simulation of real-world events [complex].

Simple probabilities (6 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• construct a sample space for an experiment
• use a sample space to determine the probability of outcomes for an experiment
• use arrays or tree diagrams to determine the outcomes and the probabilities for experiments.

5.6 Topic 3: Loans and compound interest

Subject matter

Compound interest (12 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• review the principles of simple interest through substitution of given values for other pronumerals into a
mathematical formula to find the value of the subject of the formula
• understand the concept of compound interest as a recurrence relation
• consider similar problems involving compounding [complex]
• use technology (online calculator) to calculate the future value of a compound interest loan or
investment and the total interest paid or earned
• use technology (spreadsheet) to calculate the future value of a compound interest loan or investment
and the total interest paid or earned [complex]
• use technology (online calculator) to compare, numerically and graphically, the growth of simple interest
and compound interest loans and investments
• use technology (spreadsheet) to compare, numerically and graphically, the growth of simple interest
and compound interest loans and investments [complex]
• use technology (online calculator) to investigate the effect of the interest rate and the number of
compounding periods on the future value of a loan or investment
• use technology (spreadsheet) to investigate the effect of the interest rate and the number of
compounding periods on the future value of a loan or investment [complex].

Reducing balance loans (8 hours)

In this sub-topic, students will:
• understand that reducing balance loans are compound interest loans with periodic repayments
• use technology (online calculator) to model a reducing balance loan
• use technology (spreadsheet) to model a reducing balance loan [complex]
• use technology (online calculator) to investigate the effect of the interest rate and repayment amount on
the time taken to repay a loan
• use technology (spreadsheet) to investigate the effect of the interest rate and repayment amount on the
time taken to repay a loan [complex].

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5.7 Assessment
5.7.1 Summative internal assessment 3: Problem-solving and
modelling task
Description
This assessment focuses on the interpretation, analysis and evaluation of ideas and information.
It is an independent task responding to a particular situation or stimuli. While students may
undertake some research in the writing of the problem-solving and modelling task, it is not the
focus of this technique. This assessment occurs over an extended and defined period of time.
Students will use class time and their own time to develop a response.
The problem-solving and modelling task must use subject matter from Fundamental topic:
Calculations and at least one of the following topics in Unit 4:
• Topic 1: Bivariate graphs
• Topic 2: Probability and relative frequencies
• Topic 3: Loans and compound interest.

Assessment objectives
This assessment technique is used to determine student achievement in the following objectives:
1. select, recall and use facts, rules, definitions and procedures drawn from Fundamental topic:
Calculations and Unit 4 Topic 1, 2 and/or 3
2. comprehend mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from Fundamental topic:
Calculations and Unit 4 Topic 1, 2 and/or 3
3. communicate using mathematical, statistical and everyday language and conventions
4. evaluate the reasonableness of solutions
5. justify procedures and decisions by explaining mathematical reasoning
6. solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from Fundamental
topic: Calculations and Unit 4 Topic 1, 2 and/or 3.

Specifications

Description
A problem-solving and modelling task is an assessment instrument developed in response to a
mathematical investigative scenario or context. It requires students to respond with a range of
understanding and skills, such as using mathematical language, appropriate calculations, tables
of data, graphs and diagrams.
Students must provide a response to a specific task or issue that must be set in a context that
highlights a real-life application of mathematics. The task requires students to use relevant
stimulus material involving the selected subject matter and must have sufficient scope to allow
students to address all the stages of the problem-solving and modelling approach (see
Section 1.2.4). Technology must be used.

Conditions
• Written:

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 ­ up to 8 pages (including tables, figures and diagrams)
­ maximum of 1000 words
­ appendixes can include raw data, repeated calculations, evidence of authentication and
student notes (appendixes are not to be marked).
• Duration: 5 weeks (including 10 hours of class time).
• Other:
­ opportunity may be provided for group work, but unique responses must be developed by
each student
­ use of technology is required; schools must specify the technology used, e.g. graphics
calculator, spreadsheet program, scientific calculator
­ the teacher provides the mathematical investigative scenario or context for the problem-
solving and modelling task.

Task examples
Examples of problem-solving and modelling tasks include:
• a report using scatterplots to make predictions about a long-term trend in running world
records such as the 100 m, 200 m, 400 m and 1500 m; use provided data about the men’s
1500 m freestyle world records since 1980 and predict the approximate year when someone
will swim it in under 14 minutes.
• a brochure that analyses different mobile phone rates used by students across different year
levels and explores future costings/break-even points; compare and contrast buying the same
model of mobile phone on contract vs. outright and prepaid.
• the creation of a game that involves chance and choice and presentation of your findings to a
prospective investor in a report, justifying your mathematical and statistical calculations,
strategies and decisions.
• a written persuasive argument of your proposed plan and budget to your parents/caregivers
for going on a ‘schoolies’ trip or purchasing a car by either borrowing with a bank loan, a
payday loan or saving money from a part-time job worked since the end of Year 10, ensuring
that concepts of compound interest and/or reducing balance loans are investigated, and
compare the overall savings.

Summary of the instrument-specific standards

The following table summarises the criteria and assessment objectives for the problem-solving
and modelling task.

Criterion Objectives

Formulate 1, 2 and 5

Solve 1 and 6

Evaluate and verify 4 and 5

Communicate 3

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 Instrument-specific standards — IA3

Formulate Solve Evaluate and verify Communicate Grade

The student work has the following characteristics:

• documentation of appropriate • accurate use of complex • evaluation of the reasonableness of • correct use of appropriate technical
assumptions procedures to reach a valid solutions by considering the results, vocabulary, procedural vocabulary
• accurate documentation of relevant solution assumptions and observations and conventions to develop the
observations • discerning application of simple • documentation of relevant strengths and response
• accurate translation of all simple and and complex mathematical limitations of the solution and/or model • coherent and concise organisation of A
complex aspects of the problem by concepts and techniques • justification of decisions made using the response, appropriate to the
identifying mathematical concepts relevant to the task mathematical reasoning. genre, including a suitable
and techniques. • accurate and appropriate use introduction, body and conclusion.
of technology.

• statements of appropriate • use of complex procedures to • statements about the reasonableness of • use of technical vocabulary,
assumptions reach a reasonable solution solutions by considering the context of the procedural vocabulary and
• statements of relevant observations • application of simple and task conventions to develop the response
• translation of simple and complex complex mathematical • statements about relevant strengths and • organisation of the response, B
aspects of the problem by identifying concepts and techniques limitations of the solution and/or model including a suitable introduction,
mathematical concepts and relevant to the task • statements about decisions made relevant to body and conclusion.
techniques. • appropriate use of technology. the context of the task.

• statement of assumptions • use of simple procedures to • statement about the reasonableness of • use of some appropriate language
• statement of observations make some progress towards a solutions and conventions to develop the
solution • statement about strengths and/or limitations response
• translation of simple aspects of the
problem by identifying mathematical • application of simple of the solution and/or model • adequate organisation of the C
concepts and techniques. mathematical concepts and • statement about decisions made. response.
techniques relevant to the task
• use of technology.

• statement of an assumption or an • application of some simple • statement about a decision and/or the • use of everyday language to develop
observation procedures, mathematical reasonableness of a solution. a response
• translation of some simple aspects concepts or techniques • basic organisation of the response. D
of the problem by identifying • superficial use of technology.
mathematical concepts and
techniques.

• statement of an assumption, • inappropriate use of technology • inappropriate statement about a decision or • unclear and disjointed organisation
observation or translation of an or procedures. the reasonableness of a solution. of the response. E
aspect of the problem.

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 5.7.2 Summative internal assessment 4: Examination
Description
This assessment is a supervised examination in two parts: simple (Part A) and complex (Part B).
This examination assesses the application of a range of cognitions to a number of items, drawn
from all Unit 4 topics. Student responses must be completed individually, under supervised
conditions and in a set timeframe.

Assessment objectives
This assessment technique is used to determine student achievement in the following objectives:
1. select, recall and use facts, rules, definitions and procedures drawn from all Unit 4 topics
2. comprehend mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from all Unit 4 topics
3. communicate using mathematical, statistical and everyday language and conventions
4. evaluate the reasonableness of solutions
5. justify procedures and decisions by explaining mathematical reasoning
6. solve problems by applying mathematical concepts and techniques drawn from all Unit 4
topics.

Specifications

Description
The examination will representatively sample subject matter from all Unit 4 topics. Where
relevant, the focus of this assessment should be on subject matter not assessed in the problem-
solving and modelling task.
The examination must ensure that all assessment objectives are assessed. The examination
should be designed using the principles of developing mathematics problems in Section 1.2.4.
The total number of marks used in an examination marking scheme is a school decision.
However, in order to correctly apply the instrument-specific standards, the percentage allocation
of marks must match the specifications below.

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 Mark allocations

Percentage of marks Degree of difficulty

Complex unfamiliar
Problems of this degree of difficulty require students to demonstrate
knowledge and understanding of the subject matter and application of skills in
a situation where:
• knowledge of [complex] subject matter is required to solve the problem; and
Part B ~10% • all the information to solve the problem is not immediately identifiable, that is
­ the required procedure is not clear from the way the problem is posed; and
­ in a context in which students have had limited prior experience.
Students interpret, clarify and analyse problems to develop responses.
Typically, these problems focus on objectives 4, 5 and 6.

Complex familiar
Problems of this degree of difficulty require students to demonstrate
knowledge and understanding of the subject matter and application of skills in
a situation where:
• knowledge of [complex] subject matter is required to solve the problem; and
Part B ~10% • all of the information to solve the problem is identifiable, that is
­ the required procedure is clear from the way the problem is posed, or
­ in a context that has been a focus of prior learning.
Some interpretation, clarification and analysis will be required to develop
responses. These problems can focus on any of the objectives.

Simple familiar
Problems of this degree of difficulty require students to demonstrate
knowledge and understanding of the subject matter and application of skills in
a situation where:
• knowledge of simple subject matter is required to solve the problem; and
Part A ~80% • all of the information to solve the problem is identifiable, that is
­ the required procedure is clear from the way the problem is posed, or
­ is in a context that has been a focus of prior learning.
Students are not required to interpret, clarify and analyse problems to develop
responses. Typically, these problems focus on objectives 1, 2 and 3.

Conditions
• Time: 60 minutes plus 5 minutes perusal
­ Part A: simple
 short response
­ Part B: complex
 short response.
• Length: the number of short-response items should allow students to complete the responses
in the set time.
• Short response format, consisting of a number of items that ask students to respond to the
following activities:
­ calculating using algorithms
­ drawing, labelling or interpreting graphs, tables or diagrams
­ short items requiring single-word, term, sentence or short paragraph responses

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 ­ justifying solutions using appropriate mathematical language where applicable
­ responding to seen or unseen stimulus materials
­ interpreting ideas and information.
• Other:
­ seen stimulus — teachers must ensure the purpose of the technique is not compromised
­ unseen stimulus — materials or questions must not be copied from information or texts that
students have previously been exposed to or have directly used in class
­ when stimulus materials are used, they will be succinct enough to allow students sufficient
time to engage with them; for stimulus materials that are lengthy, complex or large in
number, they will be shared with students prior to the administration of the assessment
instrument
­ only the QCAA formula sheet must be provided
­ notes are not permitted
­ use of technology is required; schools must specify the technology used, e.g. scientific
calculator, graphics calculator, spreadsheet program and/or other mathematical software.

Summary of the instrument-specific standards

The following table summarises the criteria and assessment objectives for the examination.

Criterion Objectives

Foundational knowledge and problem-solving 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

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 Instrument-specific standards — IA4

Foundational knowledge and problem-solving Cut-off Grade

The student work has the following characteristics:

• comprehensive selection, recall and use of simple and complex facts, rules,
definitions and procedures; comprehension and clear communication of simple
and complex mathematical concepts and techniques; evaluation of the
> 80% A
reasonableness of solutions and use of mathematical reasoning to justify
procedures and decisions; and proficient application of simple and complex
mathematical concepts and techniques to solve problems.

• selection, recall and use of simple and some complex facts, rules, definitions and
procedures; comprehension and communication of simple and some complex
mathematical concepts and techniques; evaluation of the reasonableness of some > 60% B
solutions using mathematical reasoning; and application of simple and some
complex mathematical concepts and techniques to solve problems.

• selection, recall and use of simple facts, rules, definitions and procedures;
comprehension and communication of simple mathematical concepts and
techniques; discussion of the reasonableness of solutions using mathematical > 40% C*
reasoning; and application of simple mathematical concepts and techniques to
solve problems.

• some selection, recall and use of facts, rules, definitions and procedures; basic
comprehension and communication of mathematical concepts and techniques;
> 20% D
some discussion of the reasonableness of solutions; and inconsistent application
of mathematical concepts and techniques.

• isolated and inaccurate selection, recall and use of facts, rules, definitions and
procedures; disjointed and unclear communication of mathematical concepts and ≥ 0% E
techniques; superficial discussion of the reasonableness of solutions.

* Equivalent to > 50% for Part A simple questions only

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 6 Glossary
Term Explanation

highly trained or skilled in a particular activity; perfected in knowledge or

accomplished
training; expert

the condition or quality of being true, correct or exact; freedom from error or
defect; precision or exactness; correctness;
accuracy in science, the extent to which a measurement result represents the quantity it
purports to measure; an accurate measurement result includes an estimate of
the true value and an estimate of the uncertainty

precise and exact; to the point; consistent with or exactly conforming to a truth,
accurate standard, rule, model, convention or known fact; free from error or defect;
meticulous; correct in all details

adept very/highly skilled or proficient at something; expert

satisfactory or acceptable in quality or quantity equal to the requirement or

adequate
occasion

a precisely defined procedure that can be applied and systematically followed

algorithm
through to a conclusion

dissect to ascertain and examine constituent parts and/or their relationships;

break down or examine in order to identify the essential elements, features,
components or structure; determine the logic and reasonableness of
analyse information;
examine or consider something in order to explain and interpret it, for the
purpose of finding meaning or relationships and identifying patterns, similarities
and differences

when an observer looks at an object that is lower than ‘the eye of the
observer’, the angle between the line of sight and the horizontal is called the
angle of depression

angle of depression

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 Term Explanation

when an observer looks at an object that is higher than ‘the eye of the
observer’, the angle between the line of sight and the horizontal is called the
angle of elevation

angle of elevation

applied learning the acquisition and application of knowledge, understanding and skills in real-
world or lifelike contexts that may encompass workplace, industry and
community situations; it emphasises learning through doing and includes both
theory and the application of theory, connecting subject knowledge and
understanding with the development of practical skills

Applied subject a subject whose primary pathway is work and vocational education; it
emphasises applied learning and community connections;
a subject for which a syllabus has been developed by the QCAA with the
following characteristics: results from courses developed from Applied
syllabuses contribute to the QCE; results may contribute to ATAR calculations

apply use knowledge and understanding in response to a given situation or

circumstance; carry out or use a procedure in a given or particular situation

appraise evaluate the worth, significance or status of something; judge or consider a text
or piece of work

appreciate recognise or make a judgment about the value or worth of something;

understand fully; grasp the full implications of

appropriate acceptable; suitable or fitting for a particular purpose, circumstance, context,

etc.

apt suitable to the purpose or occasion; fitting, appropriate

area of study a division of or a section within a unit

argue give reasons for or against something; challenge or debate an issue or idea;
persuade, prove or try to prove by giving reasons

array an ordered collection of objects or numbers

aspect a particular part of a feature of something; a facet, phase or part of a whole

measure, determine, evaluate, estimate or make a judgment about the value,

assess
quality, outcomes, results, size, significance, nature or extent of something

purposeful and systematic collection of information about students’

assessment
achievements

assessment a tool or device used to gather information about student achievement

instrument

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 Term Explanation

drawn from the unit objectives and contextualised for the requirements of the
assessment
assessment instrument
objectives
(see also ‘syllabus objectives’, ‘unit objectives’)

assessment the method used to gather evidence about student achievement, e.g.
technique examination, project, investigation

assumptions conditions that are stated to be true when beginning to solve a problem

showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people; of keen

astute
discernment

ATAR Australian Tertiary Admission Rank

able to be trusted as being accurate or true; reliable; commanding and self-

authoritative
confident; likely to be respected and obeyed

average speed the total distance travelled divided by the total time taken

a method for comparing two data distributions by attaching two sets of ‘leaves’
to the same ‘stem’ in a stem-and-leaf plot; for example, the stem-and-leaf plot
below displays the distribution of pulse rates of 18 students before and after
gentle exercise

back-to-back stem
plot

keeping or showing a balance; not biased; fairly judged or presented; taking

balanced
everything into account in a fair, well-judged way

basic fundamental

a dataset is bimodal if it has two modes; this means that there is not a single
bimodality data value that occurs with the highest frequency, but two data values have the
same and highest frequency

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 Term Explanation

a two-dimensional data plot using Cartesian coordinates to display the values

of two variables in a bivariate dataset; for example, the scatterplot below
displays the CO2 emissions in tonnes per person (CO2) plotted against Gross
Domestic Product per person in $US (GDP) for a sample of 24 countries in
2004; in constructing this scatterplot, GDP has been used as the explanatory
variable

bivariate scatterplot

determine or find (e.g. a number, answer) by using mathematical processes;

calculate obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working;
ascertain/determine from given facts, figures or information

a measure of energy related to food and exercise; one calorie is equivalent to

calorie (Cal) 4.184 kilojoules; the energy required to increase the temperature of 1 kg of
water by 1 °C

capacity the quantity of fluid a container can hold

two intersecting number lines are taken intersecting at right angles at their
origins to form the axes of the coordinate system;
the plane is divided into four quadrants by these perpendicular axes, called the
x-axis (horizontal line) and the y-axis (vertical line);
Cartesian plane
the position of any point in the plane can be represented by an ordered pair of
numbers (x, y); these ordered pairs are called the coordinates of the point; this
is called the Cartesian coordinate system; the plane is called the Cartesian
plane

categorical data data associated with a categorical variable

place in or assign to a particular class or group; arrange or order by classes or

categorise
categories; classify, sort out, sort, separate

an attempt to collect information about the whole population;

census a population is the complete set of individuals, objects, places etc. that we
want information about

difficult but interesting; testing one’s abilities; demanding and thought-

challenging
provoking; usually involving unfamiliar or less familiar elements

characteristic a typical feature or quality

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 Term Explanation

make clear or intelligible; explain; make a statement or situation less confused

clarify
and more comprehensible

clearness of thought or expression; the quality of being coherent and

clarity intelligible; free from obscurity of sense; without ambiguity; explicit; easy to
perceive, understand or interpret

arrange, distribute or order in classes or categories according to shared

classify
qualities or characteristics

clear free from confusion, uncertainty, or doubt; easily seen, heard or understood

clearly in a clear manner; plainly and openly, without ambiguity

having a natural or due agreement of parts; connected; consistent; logical,

coherent orderly; well-structured and makes sense; rational, with parts that are
harmonious; having an internally consistent relation of parts

characterised by being united, bound together or having integrated meaning;

cohesive
forming a united whole

express an opinion, observation or reaction in speech or writing; give a

comment
judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation

communicate convey knowledge and/or understandings to others; make known; transmit

display recognition of similarities and differences and recognise the

compare
significance of these similarities and differences

having suitable or sufficient skills, knowledge, experience, etc. for some

purpose; adequate but not exceptional; capable; suitable or sufficient for the
purpose;
competent
having the necessary ability, knowledge or skill to do something successfully;
efficient and capable (of a person); acceptable and satisfactory, though not
outstanding

in an efficient and capable way; in an acceptable and satisfactory, though not

competently
outstanding, way

composed or consisting of many different and interconnected parts or factors;

compound; composite; characterised by an involved combination of parts;
complex
complicated; intricate; a complex whole or system; a complicated assembly of
particulars

problems of this degree of difficulty require students to demonstrate knowledge

and understanding of the subject matter and application of skills in a situation
where:
• knowledge of [complex] subject matter is required to solve the problem; and
complex familiar • all of the information to solve the problem is identifiable, that is
­ the required procedure is clear from the way the problem is posed, or
­ in a context that has been a focus of prior learning.
Some interpretation, clarification and analysis will be required to develop
responses. These problems can focus on any of the objectives.

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 Term Explanation

problems of this degree of difficulty require students to demonstrate knowledge

and understanding of the subject matter and application of skills in a situation
where:
• knowledge of [complex] subject matter is required to solve the problem; and
complex unfamiliar • all the information to solve the problem is not immediately identifiable, that is
­ the required procedure is not clear from the way the problem is posed; and
­ in a context in which students have had limited prior experience.
Students interpret, clarify and analyse problems to develop responses.
Typically, these problems focus on objectives 4, 5 and 6.

the interest earned by investing a sum of money (the principal) is compound

interest if each successive interest payment is added to the principal for the
purpose of calculating the next interest payment; for example, if the principal 𝑃𝑃
compound interest earns compound interest at the rate of 𝑖𝑖% per period, then after 𝑛𝑛 periods the
total amount accrued is:
𝑖𝑖 𝑛𝑛
𝐴𝐴 = 𝑃𝑃 �1 + �
100

comprehend understand the meaning or nature of; grasp mentally

inclusive; of large content or scope; including or dealing with all or nearly all
comprehensive elements or aspects of something; wide-ranging; detailed and thorough,
including all that is relevant

expressing much in few words; giving a lot of information clearly and in a few
concise words; brief, comprehensive and to the point; succinct, clear, without repetition
of information

in a way that is brief but comprehensive; expressing much in few words; clearly
concisely
and succinctly

final result or summing up; inference deduced from previous information;

conclusion
reasoned judgment

conduct direct in action or course; manage; organise; carry out

think deliberately or carefully about something, typically before making a

consider decision; take something into account when making a judgment; view
attentively or scrutinise; reflect on

considerable fairly large or great; thought about deliberately and with a purpose

considered formed after careful and deliberate thought

agreeing or accordant; compatible; not self-opposed or self-contradictory,

constantly adhering to the same principles; acting in the same way over time,
consistent especially so as to be fair or accurate; unchanging in nature, standard, or effect
over time; not containing any logical contradictions (of an argument); constant
in achievement or effect over a period of time

create or put together (e.g. an argument) by arranging ideas or items;

construct
display information in a diagrammatic or logical form; make; build

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 Term Explanation

a framework for linking concepts and learning experiences that enables

students to identify and understand the applications of mathematics to their
world;
context
a group of related situations, phenomena, technical applications and social
issues likely to be encountered by students;
can provide a meaningful application of concepts in real-world situations

display recognition of differences by deliberate juxtaposition of contrary

elements; show how things are different or opposite; give an account of the
contrast
differences between two or more items or situations, referring to both or all of
them throughout

shows the exercise of restraint or direction over; held in check; restrained,

controlled
managed or kept within certain bounds

the generally agreed upon way in which something is done; in a mathematical

convention
context this refers to notation, symbols, abbreviations, usage and setting out

conversion a change in the form or units of an expression

convert change into a different form

persuaded by argument or proof; leaving no margin of doubt; clear; capable of

causing someone to believe that something is true or real; persuading or
convincing
assuring by argument or evidence; appearing worthy of belief; credible or
plausible

correlation a measure of the strength of the linear relationship between two variables
adjacent
in any right-angled triangle, cos 𝜃𝜃 =
hypotenuse

cosine ratio

course a defined amount of learning developed from a subject syllabus

bring something into being or existence; produce or evolve from one's own
create thought or imagination; reorganise or put elements together into a new pattern
or structure or to form a coherent or functional whole

resulting from originality of thought or expression; relating to or involving the

creative use of the imagination or original ideas to create something; having good
imagination or original ideas

credible capable or worthy of being believed; believable; convincing

criterion the property or characteristic by which something is judged or appraised

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 Term Explanation

critical involving skilful judgment as to truth, merit, etc.; involving the objective analysis
and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment; expressing or involving
an analysis of the merits and faults of a work of literature, music or art;
incorporating a detailed and scholarly analysis and commentary (of a text);
rationally appraising for logical consistency and merit

critique review (e.g. a theory, practice, performance) in a detailed, analytical and

critical way

cursory hasty, and therefore not thorough or detailed; performed with little attention to
detail; going rapidly over something, without noticing details; hasty; superficial

dataset a collection of related sets of information

reach a resolution as a result of consideration; make a choice from a number

decide
of alternatives

decile any of the nine values that divide a ranked dataset into ten equal parts

deduce reach a conclusion that is necessarily true, provided a given set of

assumptions is true; arrive at, reach or draw a logical conclusion from
reasoning and the information given

defensible justifiable by argument; capable of being defended in argument

define give the meaning of a word, phrase, concept or physical quantity; state
meaning and identify or describe qualities

demonstrate prove or make clear by argument, reasoning or evidence, illustrating with

practical example; show by example; give a practical exhibition

derive arrive at by reasoning; manipulate a mathematical relationship to give a new

equation or relationship;
in mathematics, obtain the derivative of a function

describe give an account (written or spoken) of a situation, event, pattern or process, or

of the characteristics or features of something

design produce a plan, simulation, model or similar; plan, form or conceive in the
mind;
in English, select, organise and use particular elements in the process of text
construction for particular purposes; these elements may be linguistic (words),
visual (images), audio (sounds), gestural (body language), spatial
(arrangement on the page or screen) and multimodal (a combination of more
than one)

detailed executed with great attention to the fine points; meticulous; including many of
the parts or facts

determine establish, conclude or ascertain after consideration, observation, investigation

or calculation; decide or come to a resolution

develop elaborate, expand or enlarge in detail; add detail and fullness to; cause to
become more complex or intricate

devise think out; plan; contrive; invent

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 Term Explanation

differentiate identify the difference/s in or between two or more things; distinguish,

discriminate; recognise or ascertain what makes something distinct from
similar things;
in mathematics, obtain the derivative of a function

discerning discriminating; showing intellectual perception; showing good judgment;

making thoughtful and astute choices; selected for value or relevance

discriminate note, observe or recognise a difference; make or constitute a distinction in or

between; differentiate; note or distinguish as different

discriminating differentiating; distinctive; perceiving differences or distinctions with nicety;

possessing discrimination; perceptive and judicious; making judgments about
quality; having or showing refined taste or good judgment

discuss examine by argument; sift the considerations for and against; debate; talk or
write about a topic, including a range of arguments, factors or hypotheses;
consider, taking into account different issues and ideas, points for and/or
against, and supporting opinions or conclusions with evidence

disjointed disconnected; incoherent; lacking a coherent order/sequence or connection

distinguish recognise as distinct or different; note points of difference between;

discriminate; discern; make clear a difference/s between two or more concepts
or items

diverse of various kinds or forms; different from each other

document support (e.g. an assertion, claim, statement) with evidence (e.g. decisive
information, written references, citations)

a particular taxonomic classification used to group similar mathematics

domains of
concepts, ideas, knowledge, understandings and skills; the scope and range of
mathematics
mathematics subject matter

draw conclusions make a judgment based on reasoning and evidence

effective successful in producing the intended, desired or expected result; meeting the
assigned purpose

efficient working in a well-organised and competent way; maximum productivity with

minimal expenditure of effort; acting or producing effectively with a minimum of
waste, expense or unnecessary effort

element a component or constituent part of a complex whole; a fundamental, essential

or irreducible part of a composite entity

elementary simple or uncompounded; relating to or dealing with elements, rudiments or

first principles (of a subject);
of the most basic kind; straightforward and uncomplicated

erroneous based on or containing error; mistaken; incorrect

essential absolutely necessary; indispensable; of critical importance for achieving

something

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 Term Explanation

evaluate make an appraisal by weighing up or assessing strengths, implications and

limitations; make judgments about ideas, works, solutions or methods in
relation to selected criteria; examine and determine the merit, value or
significance of something, based on criteria

examination a supervised test that assesses the application of a range of cognitions to one
or more provided items such as questions, scenarios and/or problems; student
responses are completed individually, under supervised conditions, and in a
set timeframe

examine investigate, inspect or scrutinise; inquire or search into; consider or discuss an

argument or concept in a way that uncovers the assumptions and
interrelationships of the issue

experiment try out or test new ideas or methods, especially in order to discover or prove
something; undertake or perform a scientific procedure to test a hypothesis,
make a discovery or demonstrate a known fact

explain make an idea or situation plain or clear by describing it in more detail or

revealing relevant facts; give an account; provide additional information

explicit clearly and distinctly expressing all that is meant; unequivocal; clearly
developed or formulated; leaving nothing merely implied or suggested

explore look into both closely and broadly; scrutinise; inquire into or discuss something
in detail

express convey, show or communicate (e.g. a thought, opinion, feeling, emotion, idea
or viewpoint);
in words, art, music or movement, convey or suggest a representation of;
depict

extended response an open-ended assessment technique that focuses on the interpretation,

analysis, examination and/or evaluation of ideas and information in response to
a particular situation or stimulus; while students may undertake some research
when writing of the extended response, it is not the focus of this technique; an
extended response occurs over an extended and defined period of time

Extension subject a two-unit subject (Units 3 and 4), for which a syllabus has been developed by
the QCAA, that is an extension of one or more General subject/s, studied
concurrently with, or after completion of, Units 3 and 4 of that subject

extensive of great extent; wide; broad; far-reaching; comprehensive; lengthy; detailed;

large in amount or scale

external assessment summative assessment that occurs towards the end of a course of study and is
common to all schools; developed and marked by the QCAA according to a
commonly applied marking scheme

external examination a supervised test, developed and marked by the QCAA, that assesses the
application of a range of cognitions to multiple provided items such as
questions, scenarios and/or problems; student responses are completed
individually, under supervised conditions, and in a set timeframe

extrapolate infer or estimate by extending or projecting known information; conjecture; infer

from what is known; extend the application of something (e.g. a method or
conclusion) to an unknown situation by assuming that existing trends will
continue or similar methods will be applicable

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 Term Explanation

in the context of fitting a linear relationship between two variables,

extrapolation occurs when the fitted model is used to make predictions using
extrapolation values of the explanatory variable that are outside the range of the original
data; extrapolation is a dangerous process as it can sometimes lead to quite
erroneous predictions

factual relating to or based on facts; concerned with what is actually the case; actually
occurring; having verified existence

familiar well-acquainted; thoroughly conversant with; well known from long or close
association; often encountered or experienced; common;
of materials, texts, skills or circumstances, having been the focus of learning
experiences or previously encountered in prior learning activities

feasible capable of being achieved, accomplished or put into effect; reasonable enough
to be believed or accepted; probable; likely

a method of summarising a set of data using the minimum value, the lower or
five-number summary first quartile (Q1), the median (Q2), the upper or third quartile (Q3) and the
maximum value; forms the basis for a box plot

fluent spoken or written with ease; able to speak or write smoothly, easily or readily;
articulate; eloquent;
in artistic performance, characteristic of a highly developed and excellently
controlled technique; flowing; polished; flowing smoothly, easily and effortlessly

fluently in a graceful and seemingly effortless manner; in a way that progresses

smoothly and readily

formative assessment assessment whose major purpose is to improve teaching and student
achievement

a special type of equation that shows the relationship between different

formula variables; for example, the formula for the volume of a rectangular box is
𝑉𝑉 = 𝑙𝑙 × 𝑤𝑤 × ℎ, ‘V’ is called the subject of the formula

fragmented disorganised; broken down; disjointed or isolated

frequent happening or occurring often at short intervals; constant, habitual or regular

fundamental forming a necessary base or core; of central importance; affecting or relating to

the essential nature of something; part of a foundation or basis

General subject a subject for which a syllabus has been developed by the QCAA with the
following characteristics: results from courses developed from General
syllabuses contribute to the QCE; General subjects have an external
assessment component; results may contribute to ATAR calculations

generate produce; create; bring into existence

the GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a broad sales tax of 10% on most goods
GST
and services transactions in Australia

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 Term Explanation

hypothesise formulate a supposition to account for known facts or observed occurrences;

conjecture, theorise, speculate; especially on uncertain or tentative grounds

identify distinguish; locate, recognise and name; establish or indicate who or what
someone or something is; provide an answer from a number of possibilities;
recognise and state a distinguishing factor or feature

illogical lacking sense or sound reasoning; contrary to or disregardful of the rules of

logic; unreasonable

implement put something into effect, e.g. a plan or proposal

implicit implied, rather than expressly stated; not plainly expressed; capable of being
inferred from something else

improbable not probable; unlikely to be true or to happen; not easy to believe

inaccurate not accurate

inappropriate not suitable or proper in the circumstances

inconsistent lacking agreement, as one thing with another, or two or more things in relation
to each other; at variance; not consistent; not in keeping; not in accordance;
incompatible, incongruous

independent thinking or acting for oneself, not influenced by others

in-depth comprehensive and with thorough coverage; extensive or profound; well-

balanced or fully developed

infer derive or conclude something from evidence and reasoning, rather than from
explicit statements; listen or read beyond what has been literally expressed;
imply or hint at

informed knowledgeable; learned; having relevant knowledge; being conversant with the
topic; based on an understanding of the facts of the situation (of a decision or
judgment)

infrequent happening or occurring at long intervals or not often

innovative new and original; introducing new ideas; original and creative in thinking

insightful showing understanding of a situation or process; understanding relationships in

complex situations; informed by observation and deduction

a tool for marking that describes the characteristics evident in student

instrument-specific
responses and aligns with the identified objectives for the assessment (see
standards
‘assessment objectives’)

integral adjective
necessary for the completeness of the whole; essential or fundamental;
noun
in mathematics, the result of integration; an expression from which a given
function, equation, or system of equations is derived by differentiation

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 Term Explanation

intended designed; meant; done on purpose; intentional

internal assessment assessments that are developed by schools;

summative internal assessments are endorsed by the QCAA before use in
schools and results externally confirmed contribute towards a student’s final
result

interpret use knowledge and understanding to recognise trends and draw conclusions
from given information; make clear or explicit; elucidate or understand in a
particular way;
bring out the meaning of, e.g. a dramatic or musical work, by performance or
execution; bring out the meaning of an artwork by artistic representation or
performance; give one's own interpretation of;
identify or draw meaning from, or give meaning to, information presented in
various forms, such as words, symbols, pictures or graphs

a measure of the spread within a numerical dataset; it is equal to the upper

quartile (𝑄𝑄3 ) minus the lower quartile (𝑄𝑄1 ), that is, 𝐼𝐼𝐼𝐼𝐼𝐼 = 𝑄𝑄3 − 𝑄𝑄1
• 𝑄𝑄1 is the median of the lower half of the data (excluding the median, 𝑄𝑄2 , of
the dataset)
interquartile range • 𝑄𝑄3 is the median of the upper half of the data (excluding the median, 𝑄𝑄2 , of
the dataset)
hence 𝐼𝐼𝐼𝐼𝐼𝐼 is the width of an interval that contains the middle 50%
(approximately) of the data values; to be exactly 50%, the sample size must be
a multiple of four

investigate carry out an examination or formal inquiry in order to establish or obtain facts
and reach new conclusions; search, inquire into, interpret and draw
conclusions about data and information

investigation an assessment technique that requires students to research a specific

problem, question, issue, design challenge or hypothesis through the
collection, analysis and synthesis of primary and/or secondary data; it uses
research or investigative practices to assess a range of cognitions in a
particular context; an investigation occurs over an extended and defined period
of time

irregular solids without symmetry, even shape or formal arrangement

irrelevant not relevant; not applicable or pertinent; not connected with or relevant to
something

ISMG instrument-specific marking guide; a tool for marking that describes the
characteristics evident in student responses and aligns with the identified
objectives for the assessment
(see ‘assessment objectives’)

isolated detached, separate, or unconnected with other things; one-off; something set
apart or characterised as different in some way

judge form an opinion or conclusion about; apply both procedural and deliberative
operations to make a determination

justified sound reasons or evidence are provided to support an argument, statement or

conclusion

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 Term Explanation

justify give reasons or evidence to support an answer, response or conclusion; show

or prove how an argument, statement or conclusion is right or reasonable

a measure of energy related to food or exercise;

kilojoules (kJ)
equivalent to 1000 joules and 0.2390 calories

the kilowatt hour, or kilowatt-hour, is a unit of energy equal to 1000 watt hours
kilowatt hour (kWh) or 3.6 megajoules; the kilowatt hour is most commonly known as a billing unit
for energy delivered to consumers by electric utilities

the leading digit is the first digit in the number; consider the second digit; if it is
less than 5, leave the first digit unchanged and replace all other digits with
leading-digit
zeros, but if the second digit is 5 or greater, increase the leading digit by one
approximation
and replace all other digits with zeros; complete the operation to provide an
estimate of the solution

learning area a grouping of subjects, with related characteristics, within a broad field of
learning, e.g. the Arts, sciences, languages

logical rational and valid; internally consistent; reasonable; reasoning in accordance

with the principles/rules of logic or formal argument;
characterised by or capable of clear, sound reasoning; (of an action, decision,
etc.) expected or sensible under the circumstances

logically according to the rules of logic or formal argument; in a way that shows clear,
sound reasoning; in a way that is expected or sensible

make decisions select from available options; weigh up positives and negatives of each option
and consider all the alternatives to arrive at a position

manipulate adapt or change to suit one's purpose

a body of coherent matter, usually of indefinite shape and often of considerable

mass
size

a depiction of a situation that expresses relationships using mathematical

mathematical model concepts and language, usually as an algebraic, diagrammatic, graphical or
tabular representation

involves:
• formulating a mathematical representation of a problem derived from within a
mathematical real-world context
modelling • using mathematics concepts and techniques to obtain results
• interpreting the results by referring back to the original problem context
• revising the model (where necessary)

the mean of a list of numbers is the sum of the data values divided by the
number of values in the list;
in everyday language, the mean is commonly called the average; for example,
mean
for the following list of five numbers: 2, 3, 3, 6, 8, the mean equals
2 + 3 + 3 + 6 + 8 22
= = 4.4
5 5

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 Term Explanation

the value in a set of ordered set of data values that divides the data into two
parts of equal size; when there are an odd number of data values, the median
median
is the middle value; when there are an even number of data values, the median
is the average of the two central values

mental procedures a domain of knowledge in Marzano’s taxonomy, and acted upon by the
cognitive, metacognitive and self-systems; sometimes referred to as
‘procedural knowledge’
there are three distinct phases to the acquisition of mental procedures — the
cognitive stage, the associative stage, and the autonomous stage; the two
categories of mental procedures are skills (single rules, algorithms and tactics)
and processes (macroprocedures)

methodical performed, disposed or acting in a systematic way; orderly; characterised by

method or order; performed or carried out systematically

minimal least possible; small; the least amount; negligible

a graph drawn to give a false impression, for example, only showing part of the
misleading graph
vertical scale

mode the mode is the most frequently occurring value in a dataset

any depiction of a situation expressing a relationship between ideas in

model
mathematical terms

modify change the form or qualities of; make partial or minor changes to something

multimodal uses a combination of at least two modes (e.g. spoken, written), delivered at
the same time, to communicate ideas and information to a live or virtual
audience, for a particular purpose; the selected modes are integrated so that
each mode contributes significantly to the response

narrow limited in range or scope; lacking breadth of view; limited in amount; barely
sufficient or adequate; restricted

nuanced showing a subtle difference or distinction in expression, meaning, response,

etc.; finely differentiated;
characterised by subtle shades of meaning or expression; a subtle distinction,
variation or quality; sensibility to, awareness of, or ability to express delicate
shadings, as of meaning, feeling, or value

numerical data data involving numbers, for example, the number of siblings, height of students

objectives see ‘syllabus objectives’, ‘unit objectives’, ‘assessment objectives’

data or information required to solve a mathematical problem and/or develop a

observation
mathematical model; empirical evidence

obvious clearly perceptible or evident; easily seen, recognised or understood

optimal best, most favourable, under a particular set of circumstances

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 Term Explanation

the order of performing mathematical operations:

1. evaluate brackets or grouping symbols first
2. evaluate any powers and roots
order of operations
3. working left to right, evaluate any multiplication and division
4. working left to right, evaluate any addition or subtraction
(may also be known as BODMAS, BIDMAS, BEDMAS, etc.)

organise arrange, order; form as or into a whole consisting of interdependent or

coordinated parts, especially for harmonious or united action

organised systematically ordered and arranged; having a formal organisational structure

to arrange, coordinate and carry out activities

an observation that appears to be inconsistent with the remainder of that set of

outlier
data; a surprising observation

outstanding exceptionally good; clearly noticeable; prominent; conspicuous; striking

parallel box plots are used to visually compare the five-number summaries of
two or more datasets; for example, the box-and-whisker plot below can be
used to compare the five-number summaries for the pulse rates of 19 students
before and after gentle exercise:

parallel box plot

Note that the box plot for pulse rates after exercise shows the pulse rate of 146
as a possible outlier (•); this is because the distance of this data point above
the upper quartile (42; 146 – 104) is more than 1.5 times the IQR (21;
1.5 × (104 – 90)); it is not expected that students will calculate outliers
the term parallel box plot is a common abbreviation of parallel box-and-whisker
plot

partial not total or general; existing only in part; attempted, but incomplete

particular distinguished or different from others or from the ordinary; noteworthy

percentile the values that divide a ranked set of data into 100 equal parts

perceptive having or showing insight and the ability to perceive or understand; discerning
(see also ‘discriminating’)

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 Term Explanation

performance an assessment technique that requires students to demonstrate a range of

cognitive, technical, creative and/or expressive skills and to apply theoretical
and conceptual understandings, through the psychomotor domain; it involves
student application of identified skills when responding to a task that involves
solving a problem, providing a solution or conveying meaning or intent; a
performance is developed over an extended and defined period of time

persuasive capable of changing someone’s ideas, opinions or beliefs; appearing worthy of

approval or acceptance; (of an argument or statement) communicating
reasonably or credibly
(see also ‘convincing’)

perusal time time allocated in an assessment to reading items and tasks and associated
assessment materials; no writing is allowed; students may not make notes and
may not commence responding to the assessment in the response space/book

planning time time allocated in an assessment to planning how to respond to items and tasks
and associated assessment materials; students may make notes but may not
commence responding to the assessment in the response space/book; notes
made during planning are not collected, nor are they graded or used as
evidence of achievement

polished flawless or excellent; performed with skilful ease

precise definite or exact; definitely or strictly stated, defined or fixed; characterised by

definite or exact expression or execution

precision accuracy; exactness; exact observance of forms in conduct or actions

predict give an expected result of an upcoming action or event; suggest what may
happen based on available information

the likelihood or chance of something; the relative frequency of the occurrence

probability of an event as measured by the ratio of the number of cases or alternatives
favourable to the event to the total number of cases or alternatives

procedural instructional terms used in a mathematical context (e.g. calculate, convert,

vocabulary determine, identify, justify, show, sketch, solve, state)

product an assessment technique that focuses on the output or result of a process

requiring the application of a range of cognitive, physical, technical, creative
and/or expressive skills, and theoretical and conceptual understandings; a
product is developed over an extended and defined period of time

proficient well advanced or expert in any art, science or subject; competent, skilled or
adept in doing or using something

project an assessment technique that focuses on a problem-solving process requiring

the application of a range of cognitive, technical and creative skills and
theoretical understandings; the response is a coherent work that documents
the iterative process undertaken to develop a solution and includes written
paragraphs and annotations, diagrams, sketches, drawings, photographs,
video, spoken presentations, physical prototypes and/or models; a project is
developed over an extended and defined period of time

pronumeral a letter that is used to represent a number (or numeral) in a problem

propose put forward (e.g. a point of view, idea, argument, suggestion) for consideration
or action

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 Term Explanation

prove use a sequence of steps to obtain the required result in a formal way

psychomotor a domain of knowledge in Marzano’s taxonomy, and acted upon by the

procedures cognitive, metacognitive and self-systems; these are physical procedures used
to negotiate daily life and to engage in complex physical activities; the two
categories of psychomotor procedures are skills (foundational procedures and
simple combination procedures) and processes (complex combination
procedures)

purposeful having an intended or desired result; having a useful purpose; determined;

resolute; full of meaning; significant; intentional

the square of the hypotenuse of a right-angled triangle equals the sum of the
squares of the lengths of the other two sides;
in symbols, 𝑎𝑎2 + 𝑏𝑏 2 = 𝑐𝑐 2

Pythagoras’ theorem

QCE Queensland Certificate of Education

qualitative statements statements relating to a quality or qualities; of a non-numerical nature

use of mathematical measurements and calculations, including statistics, to

analyse the relationships between variables; may include use of the correlation
quantitative analysis
coefficient, coefficient of determination, simple residual analysis or outlier
analysis

the quartiles of a ranked set of data values are the three points that divide the
quartile
dataset into four equal groups

the difference between the largest and smallest observations in a dataset;

range the range can be used as a measure of spread in a dataset, but it is extremely
sensitive to the presence of outliers and should only be used with care

rarely infrequently; in few instances

a particular kind of ratio in which the two quantities are measured in different
units; for example, the ratio of distance to time, known as speed, is a rate
rate because distance and time are measured in different units (such as kilometres
and hours); the value of the rate depends on the units in which the quantities
are expressed

a comparison of two quantities of the same kind; for example, if a recipe uses
ratio 2 cups of milk and 3 cups of flour, the ratio of milk to flour is 2 is to 3. This can
2
also be written with a colon, 2:3, or as a fraction,
3

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 Term Explanation

realise create or make (e.g. a musical, artistic or dramatic work); actualise; make real
or concrete; give reality or substance to

reasonable endowed with reason; having sound judgment; fair and sensible; based on
good sense; average; appropriate, moderate

to justify solutions obtained with or without technology using everyday

reasonableness of language, mathematical language or a combination of both; may be applied to
solutions calculations to check working or to questions that require a relationship back to
the context

reasoned logical and sound; based on logic or good sense; logically thought out and
presented with justification; guided by reason; well-grounded; considered

recall remember; present remembered ideas, facts or experiences; bring something

back into thought, attention or into one’s mind

recognise identify or recall particular features of information from knowledge; identify that
an item, characteristic or quality exists; perceive as existing or true; be aware
of or acknowledge

refined developed or improved so as to be precise, exact or subtle

reflect on think about deeply and carefully

rehearsed practised; previously experienced; practised extensively

related associated with or linked to

the number of items of a certain type divided by the number of all the items
relative frequency
considered

relevance being related to the matter at hand

relevant bearing upon or connected with the matter in hand; to the purpose; applicable
and pertinent; having a direct bearing on

repetitive containing or characterised by repetition, especially when unnecessary or

tiresome

reporting providing information that succinctly describes student performance at different

junctures throughout a course of study

representatively in this syllabus, a selection of subject matter that accurately reflects the
sample intended learning of a topic

resolve in the Arts, consolidate and communicate intent through a synthesis of ideas
and application of media to express meaning

routine often encountered; previously experienced; commonplace; customary and

regular; well-practised;
performed as part of a regular procedure, rather than for a special reason

rudimentary relating to rudiments or first principles; elementary; undeveloped; involving or

limited to basic principles; relating to an immature, undeveloped or basic form

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 Term Explanation

safe secure; not risky

part of a population; a subset of the population, often randomly selected for the
sample
purpose of estimating the value of a characteristic of the population as a whole

scale a graduated line, as on a map, representing proportionate size

secure sure; certain; able to be counted on; self-confident; poised; dependable;

confident; assured; not liable to fail

select choose in preference to another or others; pick out

sensitive capable of perceiving with a sense or senses; aware of the attitudes, feelings
or circumstances of others;
having acute mental or emotional sensibility; relating to or connected with the
senses or sensation

sequence place in a continuous or connected series; arrange in a particular order

show provide the relevant reasoning to support a response

significant important; of consequence; expressing a meaning; indicative; includes all that

is important;
sufficiently great or important to be worthy of attention; noteworthy; having a
particular meaning; indicative of something

simple easy to understand, deal with and use; not complex or complicated; plain; not
elaborate or artificial;
may concern a single or basic aspect; involving few elements, components or
steps

problems of this degree of difficulty require students to demonstrate knowledge

and understanding of the subject matter and application of skills in a situation
where:
• knowledge of simple subject matter is required to solve the problem; and
simple familiar • all of the information to solve the problem is identifiable, that is
­ the required procedure is clear from the way the problem is posed, or
­ is in a context that has been a focus of prior learning.
Students are not required to interpret, clarify and analyse problems to develop
responses. Typically, these problems focus on objectives 1, 2 and 3.

simple interest is the interest accumulated when the interest payment in each
period is a fixed fraction of the principal, e.g. if the principle 𝑃𝑃 earns simple
simple interest interest at the rate of 𝑖𝑖% per period, then after 𝑛𝑛 periods the accumulated
simple interest is:
𝐼𝐼 = 𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃

simplistic characterised by extreme simplification, especially if misleading; oversimplified

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 Term Explanation
opposite
in any right-angled triangle, sin 𝜃𝜃 =
hypotenuse

sine ratio

sketch execute a drawing or painting in simple form, giving essential features but not
necessarily with detail or accuracy;
in mathematics, represent by means of a diagram or graph; the sketch should
give a general idea of the required shape or relationship and should include
features

skilful having technical facility or practical ability; possessing, showing, involving or

requiring skill; expert, dexterous;
demonstrating the knowledge, ability or training to perform a certain activity or
task well; trained, practised or experienced

skilled having or showing the knowledge, ability or training to perform a certain activity
or task well; having skill; trained or experienced; showing, involving or requiring
skill

steepness, incline or grade; normally described by the ratio of the ‘rise’ divided
slope
by the ‘run’ between two points on a line

having three dimensions (length, breadth and thickness) as a geometrical body

solid
or figure

the result of a mathematical process undertaken to answer or resolve a

solution
problem

find an answer to, explanation for, or means of dealing with (e.g. a problem);
solve work out the answer or solution to (e.g. a mathematical problem); obtain the
answer/s using algebraic, numerical and/or graphical methods

sometimes at times; now and then

sophisticated of intellectual complexity; reflecting a high degree of skill, intelligence, etc.;

employing advanced or refined methods or concepts; highly developed or
complicated

specific clearly defined or identified; precise and clear in making statements or issuing
instructions; having a special application or reference; explicit, or definite;
peculiar or proper to something, as qualities, characteristics, effects, etc.

sporadic happening now and again or at intervals; irregular or occasional; appearing in

scattered or isolated instances

statement a sentence or assertion

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 Term Explanation

a method of organising and displaying numerical data in which each data value
is split in to two parts: a ‘stem’ and a ‘leaf’; for example, the stem-and-leaf plot
below displays the resting pulse rates of 19 students:

stem-and-leaf plot

in this plot, the stem unit is 10 and the leaf unit is 1; thus, the top row in the
plot, 6 | 8 8 8 9, displays pulse rates of 68, 68, 68 and 69;
stem plot is a synonym for stem-and-leaf plot

straightforward without difficulty; uncomplicated; direct; easy to do or understand

structure verb
give a pattern, organisation or arrangement to; construct or arrange according
to a plan;
noun
in languages, arrangement of words into larger units, e.g. phrases, clauses,
sentences, paragraphs and whole texts, in line with cultural, intercultural and
textual conventions

structured organised or arranged so as to produce a desired result

subject a branch or area of knowledge or learning defined by a syllabus; school

subjects are usually based in a discipline or field of study
(see also ‘course’)

subject matter the subject-specific body of information, mental procedures and psychomotor
procedures that are necessary for students’ learning and engagement within
that subject

substantial of ample or considerable amount, quantity, size, etc.; of real worth or value;
firmly or solidly established; of real significance; reliable; important, worthwhile

substantiated established by proof or competent evidence

subtle fine or delicate in meaning or intent; making use of indirect methods; not
straightforward or obvious

successful achieving or having achieved success; accomplishing a desired aim or result

succinct expressed in few words; concise; terse; characterised by conciseness or

brevity; brief and clear

sufficient enough or adequate for the purpose

suitable appropriate; fitting; conforming or agreeing in nature, condition, or action

summarise give a brief statement of a general theme or major point/s; present ideas and
information in fewer words and in sequence

summative assessment whose major purpose is to indicate student achievement;

assessment summative assessments contribute towards a student’s subject result

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 Term Explanation

superficial concerned with or comprehending only what is on the surface or obvious;

shallow; not profound, thorough, deep or complete;
existing or occurring at or on the surface; cursory; lacking depth of character or
understanding; apparent and sometimes trivial

supported corroborated; given greater credibility by providing evidence

sustained carried on continuously, without interruption, or without any diminishing of

intensity or extent

syllabus a document that prescribes the curriculum for a course of study

syllabus objectives outline what the school is required to teach and what students have the
opportunity to learn; described in terms of actions that operate on the subject
matter; the overarching objectives for a course of study
(see also ‘unit objectives’, ‘assessment objectives’)

symbolise represent or identify by a symbol or symbols

synthesise combine different parts or elements (e.g. information, ideas, components) into
a whole, in order to create new understanding

systematic done or acting according to a fixed plan or system; methodical; organised and
logical;
having, showing, or involving a system, method, or plan; characterised by
system or method; methodical; arranged in, or comprising an ordered system

T
opposite
in any right-angled triangle, tan 𝜃𝜃 =
adjacent

tangent ratio

technical vocabulary terms that have a precise mathematical meaning (e.g. categorical data, chain
rule, decimal fraction, imaginary number, log laws, linear regression, sine rule,
whole number); may include everyday words used in a mathematical context
(e.g. capacity, differentiate, evaluate, integrate, order, property, sample, union)

test take measures to check the quality, performance or reliability of something

thorough carried out through, or applied to the whole of something; carried out
completely and carefully; including all that is required;
complete with attention to every detail; not superficial or partial; performed or
written with care and completeness; taking pains to do something carefully and
completely

thoughtful occupied with, or given to thought; contemplative; meditative; reflective;

characterised by or manifesting thought

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 Term Explanation

topic a division of, or sub-section within a unit; all topics/sub-topics within a unit are
interrelated

commonly used for displaying the two-way frequency distribution that arises
two-way table
when a group of individuals or objects are categorised according to two criteria

unclear not clear or distinct; not easy to understand; obscure

understand perceive what is meant by something; grasp; be familiar with (e.g. an idea);
construct meaning from messages, including oral, written and graphic
communication

uneven unequal; not properly corresponding or agreeing; irregular; varying; not

uniform; not equally balanced

unfamiliar not previously encountered; situations or materials that have not been the
focus of prior learning experiences or activities

unit a defined amount of subject matter delivered in a specific context or with a

particular focus; it includes unit objectives particular to the unit, subject matter
and assessment direction

unit objectives drawn from the syllabus objectives and contextualised for the subject matter
and requirements of a particular unit; they are assessed at least once in the
unit
(see also ‘syllabus objectives’, ‘assessment objectives’)

unrelated having no relationship; unconnected

use operate or put into effect; apply knowledge or rules to put theory into practice

vague not definite in statement or meaning; not explicit or precise; not definitely fixed,
determined or known; of uncertain, indefinite or unclear character or meaning;
not clear in thought or understanding;
couched in general or indefinite terms; not definitely or precisely expressed;
deficient in details or particulars;
thinking or communicating in an unfocused or imprecise way

valid sound, just or well-founded; authoritative; having a sound basis in logic or fact
(of an argument or point); reasonable or cogent; able to be supported;
legitimate and defensible; applicable

adjective
apt or liable to vary or change; changeable; inconsistent; (readily) susceptible
or capable of variation; fluctuating, uncertain;
variable
noun
in mathematics, a symbol, or the quantity it signifies, that may represent any
one of a given set of number and other objects

a number or range of things of different kinds, or the same general class, that
variety are distinct in character or quality;
(of sources) a number of different modes or references

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 Term Explanation

to ascertain the truth or correctness of, especially by examination or

verify
comparison

the size, measure or amount of anything in three dimensions; the space

volume occupied by a body or substance in cubic units; the SI unit of volume is the
cubic metre (m3)

whole number a non-negative integer that is one of the numbers 0, 1, 2, 3, …

wide of great range or scope; embracing a great number or variety of subjects,

cases, etc.; of full extent

with expression in words, art, music or movement, conveying or indicating feeling, spirit,
character, etc.; a way of expressing or representing something; vivid, effective
or persuasive communication

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 7 References
Australian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (ACARA) 2015, Australian Curriculum Senior
Secondary Curriculum: Essential Mathematics, version 7.5,
v7-5.australiancurriculum.edu.au/seniorsecondary/mathematics/essential-
mathematics/curriculum/seniorsecondary.
—— 2015a, Australian Curriculum Senior Secondary Curriculum: General Mathematics Glossary,
version 7.5,
v7-5.australiancurriculum.edu.au/seniorsecondary/mathematics/general-
mathematics/curriculum/seniorsecondary.
Blum, W, Galbraith, PL, Henn, HW & Niss, M 2007, Modelling and Applications in Mathematics
Education, Springer, New York.
Galbraith, P 1989, ‘From applications to modelling’, in D Blane & M Evans (eds), Mathematical
Modelling for the Senior Years, Mathematical Association of Victoria, Parkville, pp. 78–86.
Geiger, V, Faragher, R & Goos, M 2010, ‘CAS-enabled technologies as “agents provocateurs” in
teaching and learning mathematical modelling in secondary school classrooms’, Mathematics
Education Research Journal, vol. 22, no. 2, pp. 48–68, doi.org/10.1007/BF03217565.
Goos, M 2014, ‘Mathematics classroom assessment’, Encyclopedia of Mathematics Education,
Springer, Dordrecht, pp. 413–417.
Goos, M, Geiger, V & Dole, S 2012, ‘Auditing the numeracy demands of the middle years
curriculum’, Mathematics Education: Expanding horizons — Proceedings of the 35th annual
conference of the Mathematics Education Research Group of Australasia, Mathematics
Education Research Group of Australasia, Singapore, pp. 314–321.
Grønmo, LS, Lindquist, M, Arora, A & Mullis, IVS 2015, ‘TIMSS 2015 Mathematics Framework’,
TIMSS 2015 Assessment Frameworks, International Study Center, Boston,
timssandpirls.bc.edu/timss2015/frameworks.html#.
Kaiser, G, Blum, W, Ferri, RB & Stillman, G (eds) 2011, Trends in Teaching and Learning of
Mathematical Modelling: ICTMA14, International perspectives on the teaching and learning of
mathematical modelling, vol. 1, Springer, Vancouver.
Kilpatrick, J, Swafford, J & Bradford, F (eds) 2001, Adding It Up: Helping children learn
mathematics, National Academies Press, Washington, DC.
Marzano, RJ & Kendall, JS 2008, Designing and Assessing Educational Objectives: Applying the
new taxonomy, Corwin Press, USA.
—— 2007, The New Taxonomy of Educational Objectives, 2nd edn, Corwin Press, USA.
Mevarech, Z & Kramarski, B 2014, Critical Maths for Innovative Societies: The role of
metacognitive pedagogies, OECD Publishing, Paris.
Norton, S & O’Connor, BR 2016, Literature Review for Senior Syllabus Revisions: Mathematics,
Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority, Brisbane.
OECD 2015, PISA 2015 Mathematics Framework, OECD Publishing, Paris.
—— 2012, ‘Numeracy’, in Literacy, Numeracy and Problem Solving in Technology-Rich
Environments — Framework for the OECD Survey of Adult Skills, OECD,
doi.org/10.1787/9789264128859-en.
—— 2003, PISA 2003 Assessment Framework, OECD Publishing, Paris.
Polya, G 1957, How to Solve It: A new aspect of mathematical method, 2nd edn, Princeton
University Press, NJ.

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 Shafer, MC & Foster, S 1997, ‘What’s up on the web: The changing face of assessment’,
Principled Practice in Mathematics and Science Education: Fall 1997, vol. 1, no. 2, pp. 1–8,
http://ncisla.wceruw.org/publications/index.html#newsletters.
Stacey, K. 2015, ‘The real world and the mathematical world’, in K Stacey & R Turner (eds),
Assessing Mathematical Literacy: The PISA experience, Springer, Switzerland, pp. 57–84,
doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-10121-7_3.
Steen, LA 2001, ‘The case for quantitative literacy’, in Mathematics and Democracy: The case
for quantitative literacy, National Council on Education and the Disciplines, Princeton, NJ,
pp. 1–22.
Stillman, G, Galbraith, P, Brown, J & Edwards, I 2007, ‘A framework for success in implementing
mathematical modelling in the secondary classroom’, Mathematics: Essential research,
essential practice, vol. 2, pp. 688–697.
Stillman, G, Kaiser, G, Blum, W and Brown, JP (eds) 2013, Teaching Mathematical Modelling:
Connecting to research and practice, Springer, Vancouver.
Sullivan, P 2011, Teaching Mathematics: Using research-informed strategies, ACER Press,
Camberwell, Vic.
Verhage, H & de Lange, J 1997, ‘Mathematics education and assessment’, Pythagoras, vol. 42,
pp. 14–20.
Webb, DC 2009, ‘Designing professional development for assessment’, Educational Designer,
vol. 1, no. 2, pp. 1–26, www.educationaldesigner.org/ed/volume1/issue2/article6/.
White, P, Sullivan, P, Warren, E & Quinlan, C 2000, ‘To investigate or not to investigate? The use
of content-specific open-ended tasks’, The Australian Mathematics Teacher, vol. 56, no. 2,
pp. 6–9, www.aamt.edu.au/Journals/Journals-Index/The-Australian-Mathematics-
Teacher/AMT-56-2-6.

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 8 Version history
Version Date of change Update

1.1 July 2018 Minor amendment to syllabus objective 6 explanatory paragraph

Minor amendments to pedagogical and conceptual frameworks

Minor amendments to assessment guidance in Units 1 and 2

Minor amendments to subject matter in Units 2 and 3

Summative internal assessments 1 and 3 (IA1 & IA3) — minor

amendments to:
• description
• conditions
• ISMG

Summative internal assessment 2 (IA2) conditions — minor

amendments to:
• conditions

Summative internal assessment 4 (IA4)— minor amendments to:

• description
• degree of difficulty definitions
• conditions

Glossary updates

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ISBN: 978-1-74378-044-2
Essential Mathematics General Senior Syllabus 2019
© The State of Queensland (Queensland Curriculum & Assessment Authority) 2017
Queensland Curriculum & Assessment Authority
PO Box 307 Spring Hill QLD 4004 Australia
154 Melbourne Street, South Brisbane
Phone: (07) 3864 0299
Email: office@qcaa.qld.edu.au
Website: www.qcaa.qld.edu.au