Overview of Faculty

Rosebud SC offers the full range of VCE Mathematics subjects, a core 7 to 10 program and 2 middle school elective semester subjects.

Purpose:

The purpose of the Rosebud Secondary College Mathematics program is to provide all students with:

• Maths and related technological skills that will support and enhance their future education and career opportunities.
• An appreciation of the nature of mathematics and how it is a part of everyday life.
• Varied learning experiences that encourage the development of logical thought processes and investigative skills.
• A positive learning experience that provides success and develops self-confidence.
  

Broad Guidelines:

• Course content will be based on the VELS document for years 7 - 10 and the VCE 2000 Study designs at VCE levels.
• Student’s knowledge will be built out of their interests and experiences, and from these generalizations, abstractions will be built.
• Varied teaching methods will be utilised including: groups working cooperatively on a chosen task, research in the library, using a textbook individually, in pairs and small groups, discussions, outdoor mathematics, different assessment approaches, open ended investigations, reporting and developing ideas and solving problems.
• To do arithmetic, mental operations will be used for obtaining quick approximations, calculators for individual computations and computers for repetitive calculations.
• All students at all levels will use graphic calculators and computers as both an instructional aid and as a computational tool in the learning process.
• Real life problem solving (modelling) will be integrated throughout the Mathematics program.

Implementation:

• Both the practical uses and the relevance of abstract Mathematics will be emphasised for all students.
• The most suitable texts (with economy in mind) will be chosen by the department and students will purchase these so that skills and standard applications and problem solving can be practiced.
• Computer software, puzzle materials, games, learning aids, equipment, worksheets and student references will be used by students to stimulate interest in Mathematics and to show its relevance in real world applications.
• The individual abilities of students will be considered and programs modified to enable all students to achieve success.
• The faculty will work with acceleration and enhancement groups to provide focused attention to the needs of these groups.

Evaluation:

The program will be evaluated by:

• Assessment of students through tests and exams, assignments, projects, written and oral presentation, with reference to levels attained against the VELS Domains.
  
• Performance of students at VCE in comparison to State and Like School results.
  
• Student and parent feedback through direct consultation with students, evaluation sheets and parent/teacher interviews.
  
• The number of students selecting Mathematics units at senior (years 11 & 12) level.
  
• Contribution of staff members to curriculum development.