VCE Mathematics: Foundation Mathematics

Aim

In Foundation Mathematics Units 1–4 we provide for the continuing mathematical development of students with respect to problems encountered in practical contexts in everyday life at home, in the community, at work and in study.

Study Design 2023-2027 (word doc)

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.

Werribee Secondary College