Dear Parents and Carers,
A change in the Mathematics curriculum is set to be introduced, commencing from 2024 starting with the Year 9 cohort. The primary difference from the existing Stage 5 (Year 9/10) curriculum lies in the incorporation of Core content, accompanied by the addition of optional Pathways designed to facilitate advanced learning.
This new approach aims to grant students greater flexibility and the opportunity to pursue their mathematical education with a more ambitious and motivated outlook.
The NSW education standards authority (NESA) has the following statement on the Core-Path structure of the new Mathematics course;
The Core–Paths structure is designed to encourage aspiration in students and provide the flexibility needed to enable teachers to create pathways for students working towards Stage 6.
The structure is intended to extend students as far along the continuum of learning as possible and provide solid foundations for the highest levels of student achievement. The structure allows for a diverse range of endpoints up to the end of Stage 5.
The Core outcomes provide students with the foundation for Mathematics Standard 2 in Stage 6. Students who require ongoing support in completing all Stage 5 Core outcomes may consider either Mathematics Standard 1 or the Numeracy CEC course in Stage 6. For these students, teachers are encouraged to continue to extend students towards demonstrating achievement in as many Stage 5 Core outcomes as possible. This is to enable as many students as possible to have the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in the highest level of mathematics possible.
The aim for most students is to demonstrate achievement of the Core and as many Path outcomes as possible by the end of Stage 5 and this should guide teacher planning. Allowing time for students to demonstrate understanding of the Core outcomes must be a key consideration.
Typically, the Core will cover teaching and learning experiences up to the middle of Stage 5. It is not the intention of the Core–Paths structure to lock students into predetermined pathways at the end of Stage 4. Pathways in Stage 5 must be carefully planned to ensure some students have the opportunity to engage with Advanced and Extension courses.
Year 9 Mathematics Class Structure in 2024
- Core: Students will complete all core outcomes, preparing them for possible study of Mathematics Standard in Year 11/12. Any students requiring ongoing support to meet the core outcomes are recommended to consider studying Mathematics Standard 1.
- Core + Standard: Students will complete all core outcomes and appropriate pathway outcomes, preparing them for the study of Mathematics Standard 2 in Year 11/12.
- Core + Advanced: Students will complete all core outcomes and appropriate pathway outcomes, preparing them for the study of Mathematics Advanced/Extension in Year 11/12. Students in the Standard stream can still access Mathematics Advanced in Year 11/12; however, some aspects may prove challenging. In such cases, additional support through extra study sessions, Strength in Numbers or Numeracy attendance, or external tutoring may be beneficial.
To ensure continuous improvement and personalised learning, students will be regularly assessed, both formally and informally. Based on their results and effort, students may be moved between streams to best cater to their individual needs.
Our dedicated Mathematics teachers are always ready to provide support and guidance to help your son reach his learning goals.
We are excited about the positive impact this new curriculum will have on our students’ mathematical journey and look forward to working together to foster a love for learning and achievement in Mathematics.
