This term, our students have been exploring mathematics in practical ways, applying concepts to real-world problems and developing skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Year 12 Students Tackle Real-World Statistics
A group of Year 12 students are learning how to survey their peers in ways that avoid bias, ensuring results are accurate and representative. By combining survey data with statistical methods, they can predict how confident they are that their findings reflect the whole school.

Surveying every student—a census—would give the exact answer, but this is costly. For example, the Australian Census in 2021 cost $565 million. Students use computer simulations to see how often the true proportion falls within their predicted interval, blending maths with technology. Their findings are recorded in detailed reports.

Year 10 Students Explore Probability
Year 10 students are investigating probability through hands-on activities such as rolling dice, flipping coins, or drawing cards, and using technology to simulate outcomes.

Dice Cricket is a popular activity: roll a six-sided die, and a 1, 2, 3, 4, or 6 scores runs, while a 5 means the player is out and the opponent takes a turn. It demonstrates probability while encouraging friendly competition.

Supporting Students with OLNA
Students who have not yet met the OLNA (Online Literacy and Numeracy Assessment) requirements receive extra support in class and during lunchtime sessions. These activities help them build confidence, practise problem-solving, and become familiar with numeracy questions they will encounter.

Through these activities, students are developing essential numeracy skills, gaining practical experience, and understanding how mathematics applies in everyday situations.

Mike Hillyer & Team
Secondary Maths Department