At a glance
A practical maths course that helps students use maths for everyday life, work and further training. Students learn how to solve real problems using numbers, measurement, graphs, data and finance.
Students who received below a C in the Australian Curriculum Year 10 and band 7 or below in NAPLAN 9 would be recommended to study this course.
This course is a good choice for students who:
- want practical maths skills for life, work and everyday decisions
- want to build confidence with calculations, measurement, graphs and data
- like learning maths through real-world examples (money, travel, shopping, design)
About this course
Essential Mathematics focuses on using maths effectively and confidently to make informed decisions in daily life. Students learn to solve problems in real contexts, including workplace, personal and community settings.
Pathways
This course can support pathways into areas such as:
- further training and workplace pathways that use practical maths
- everyday life skills (money, travel, measurement and data)
- roles that value problem solving, accuracy and clear communication
Units in this course
Students complete 2 units for a Minor or 4 units for a Major.
Unit 1: Essential Mathematics
This unit builds skills in calculations, measurement, basic algebra and reading and using graphs.
Students will:
- solve real problems using percentages, rates and measurement
- use simple formulas and interpret graphs found in everyday life
Unit 2: Essential Mathematics
This unit focuses on data, percentages, rates and ratios, and time and motion.
Students will:
- represent and compare data using tables and graphs, and interpret results
- solve practical problems using percentages, ratios and travel/time calculations
Unit 3: Essential Mathematics
This unit focuses on measurement, scales/plans/models, graphs and data collection.
Students will:
- use measurement and scale drawings to solve real problems (for example plans and models)
- collect data and use graphs (including spreadsheets) to show and explain results
Unit 4: Essential Mathematics
This unit focuses on probability, time zones, and loans and compound interest.
Students will:
- use probability to explain and predict outcomes in everyday situations
- solve practical finance and travel problems using technology (for example spreadsheets)