MA111 - Mathematical Methods 1

Unit code: MA111 | Study level: TAFE

Credit points

N/A

Location

Footscray Nicholson

Prerequisites

N/A

Overview

Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2 provide an introductory study of simple elementary functions of a single real variable, algebra, calculus, probability and statistics and their applications in a variety of practical and theoretical contexts. They are designed as preparation for Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4 and contain assumed knowledge and skills for these units. The focus of Unit 1 is the study of simple algebraic functions, and the areas of study are ‘Functions and graphs’, ‘Algebra’, ‘Calculus’ and ‘Probability and statistics’. At the end of Unit 1, students are expected to have covered the content outlined in each area of study, with the exception of ‘Algebra’ which extends across Units 1 and 2. This content should be presented so that there is a balanced and progressive development of skills and knowledge from each of the four areas of study with connections between and across the areas of study being developed consistently throughout both Units 1 and 2.

In undertaking this unit, students are expected to be able to apply techniques, routines and processes involving rational and real arithmetic, sets, lists and tables, diagrams and geometric constructions, algebraic manipulation, equations, graphs and differentiation with and without the use of technology. They should have facility with relevant mental and by-hand approaches to estimation and computation. The use of numerical, graphical, geometric, symbolic and statistical functionality of technology for teaching and learning mathematics, for working mathematically, and in related assessment, is to be incorporated throughout the unit as applicable.

This unit is delivered in Year 11.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment tasks will be designed to reinforce and extend knowledge in accordance with each unit’s learning outcomes, including the setting of practical application tasks designed to provide evidence of competence outcomes, within periodic and scheduled timelines. Students will be expected to demonstrate the following knowledge:

Outcome 1
On completion of this unit the student should be able to define and explain key concepts as specified in the content from the areas of study, and apply a range of related mathematical routines and procedures.

Outcome 2
On completion of this unit the student should be able to apply mathematical processes in non-routine contexts, including situations requiring problem-solving, modelling or investigative techniques or approaches, and analyse and discuss these applications of mathematics.

Outcome 3
On completion of this unit the student should be able to use numerical, graphical, symbolic and statistical functionalities of technology to develop mathematical ideas, produce results and carry out analysis in situations requiring problem-solving, modelling or investigative techniques or approaches.

Assessment will follow the requirements set out in the VCE Mathematics Study Guide:

The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on whether the student has demonstrated the set of outcomes specified for the unit. A variety of learning activities and assessment tasks will provide a range of opportunities for students to demonstrate the key knowledge and key skills in the outcomes. Assessment will be a part of the regular teaching and learning program and will be completed mainly in class and within a limited time-frame.

All assessments at Units 1 and 2 are school-based.

For this unit students are required to demonstrate achievement of three outcomes. As a set these outcomes encompass all areas of study in the unit.

Required reading

The qualified trainer and assessor will provide teaching and learning materials as required in the form of workbooks produced by the Polytechnic and/or via the Polytechnic e-learning system.