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VCE Foundation Mathematics

Aim

Foundation Mathematics is a practical Year 11 and 12 subject that teaches essential maths skills for everyday life, work, and further study. Covering algebra, data analysis, measurement, and discrete mathematics through real-world contexts like personal finance, workplace calculations, and data interpretation, the course builds confidence in problem-solving using both technology and mental strategies. Perfect for students pursuing vocational pathways or careers requiring practical numeracy skills rather than advanced theoretical mathematics.


Study design:     2023 Mathematics SD (DOCX, 628.38 KB)

Assessments



Outcome 1

  • Use and apply a range of mathematical concepts, skills, and procedures to solve practical problems in everyday and real-life contexts.

  • Draws on key knowledge and skills from foundation mathematics content.

Outcome 2

  • Apply mathematical processes in non-routine practical contexts, including situations with open-ended aspects, requiring investigative modelling or problem-solving techniques.

  • Analyse and discuss these applications of mathematics.

  • Incorporates key knowledge and skills from all areas of study.

Outcome 3

  • Apply computational thinking and use numerical, graphical, symbolic, and statistical functionalities of technology.

  • Develop mathematical ideas, produce results, and carry out analysis in practical situations requiring investigative modelling or problem-solving techniques.

  • Utilises key knowledge and skills from all areas of study.

Units 1 and 2:  

  • Satisfactory completion based on individual school decision on the levels of achievement.


Unit 3 and 4


Unit 3 School-assessed Coursework (SAC) Contributes 40% to the study score.

Unit 4 School-assessed Coursework (SAC) Contributes 20% to the study score.


End of year examinations Contribute 40% to the study score.

UNIT 1

UNIT 2

  • Algebra, Number, and Structure

    • Estimation and use of different forms of number and calculations in practical contexts.

    • Application of integers, fractions, and decimals.

    • Use of ratios, proportions, percentages, and rates to solve problems.

    • Estimation, approximation, and reasonableness of calculations and results.

    • Integer, rational, and real arithmetic.

    • Sets, lists, and tables.

  • Data Analysis, Probability, and Statistics

    • Collection, presentation, and analysis of data from various contexts.

    • Construction and interpretation of charts, tables, and graphs.

    • Summary and communication of findings and conclusions.

    • Interpretation of data to identify trends and patterns.

    • Use of diagrams, plans, geometric objects, and constructions.

  • Financial and Consumer Mathematics

    • Understanding and management of personal financial matters.

    • Application of different forms of numbers and calculations to financial contexts.

    • Personal financial services, income calculations, taxation, and superannuation.

    • Fees, interest, and cost structures associated with financial transactions.

    • Borrowing, bills, banking, and payment systems.

  • Space and Measurement

    • Use and application of the metric system and related measurements.

    • Standard metric units and measures, including derived metric measures.

    • Reading and interpretation of scales on instruments.

    • Time and duration, including conventions, schedules, and timetables.

    • Estimation and approximation strategies.

  • Algebra, Number, and Structure

    • Representation of generalisations and patterns in number using formulas and symbolic expressions.

    • Manipulation of symbolic expressions and solving equations.

    • Construction, use, and interpretation of formulas to describe relationships.

    • Estimation, approximation, and reasonableness of calculations and results.

    • Algebraic and geometric representations.

  • Data Analysis, Probability, and Statistics

    • Analysis of gathered and provided data from various contexts.

    • Creation of charts, tables, and graphs to represent data.

    • Measures of central tendency and spread to summarise and interpret data.

    • Interpretation, summary, and comparison of related data sets.

    • Reporting findings and drawing conclusions.

  • Financial and Consumer Mathematics

    • Comparison of products and services, informed spending choices.

    • Managing money, earning, spending, and financial planning.

    • Analysis of financial and economic data and trends over time.

    • HECS-HELP and VET student loan schemes.

    • Cost comparisons for utilities, borrowing schemes, and financial commitments.

  • Space and Measurement

    • Concepts of shape and location in various contexts.

    • Description, representation, and properties of shapes and objects.

    • Use of plans, models, and diagrams.

    • Routes and itineraries, including location, direction, speed, distance, and travel times.

    • Trigonometric ratios and Pythagoras’ theorem in practical applications.


UNIT 3

UNIT 4

  • Algebra, Number, and Structure

    • Estimation, use, and application of different forms of numbers and calculations.

    • Algorithmic and computational thinking.

    • Representation of formal mathematical expressions and processes, including formulas and algebraic expressions to solve practical problems.

    • Mathematical conventions and notations for number operations, rational numbers, and irrational numbers.

    • Direct and indirect variation.

    • Symbolic expressions, equations, and formulas.

    • Graphical and algebraic analysis of relations, including transposition of formulas and finding break-even points using simultaneous equations.

    • Estimation and approximation, including interval estimates, rounding, significant figures, leading-digit approximations, floor and ceiling values, and percentage error.

  • Data Analysis, Probability, and Statistics

    • Collection, presentation, and analysis of data from various contexts.

    • Construction and interpretation of charts, tables, and graphs.

    • Statistical analysis and interpretation to summarize findings and draw conclusions.

    • Use of probability concepts and techniques to solve problems.

  • Financial and Consumer Mathematics

    • Management and understanding of personal, local, and national financial matters.

    • Application of different forms of numbers and calculations.

    • Decision-making based on financial data, trends, and comparisons.

    • Understanding and interpreting financial products and services.

  • Space and Measurement

    • Concepts of shape and location.

    • Use and application of geometric principles in various contexts.

    • Measurement techniques and calculations.

    • Interpretation and use of plans, models, and diagrams.

    • Application of spatial reasoning in real-world situations.

  • Algebra, Number, and Structure

    • Continuation and further development of topics from Unit 3.

    • Advanced applications of algebraic techniques.

    • In-depth exploration of mathematical conventions and number operations.

    • Complex problem-solving involving symbolic expressions and equations.

  • Data Analysis, Probability, and Statistics

    • Advanced statistical analysis.

    • Use of technology for data collection and analysis.

    • Interpretation of more complex data sets.

    • Application of probability models and simulations.

  • Financial and Consumer Mathematics

    • Advanced financial calculations and decision-making.

    • Analysis of financial trends and data over time.

    • Application of mathematical concepts to real-world financial scenarios.

  • Space and Measurement

    • Detailed exploration of spatial concepts.

    • Advanced measurement techniques and applications.

    • Use of geometric principles in more complex contexts.

    • Interpretation and construction of detailed plans and diagrams.


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