Stage 2 Essential Mathematics
Length of Course
Level
Learning Area
Core or Specialist
Pre-requisites
Stage 1 General Mathematics.
Subject Description
Essential Mathematics offers senior secondary students the opportunity to extend their mathematical skills in ways that apply to practical problem-solving in everyday and workplace contexts.
Students apply their mathematics to diverse settings, including everyday calculations, financial management, business applications, measurement and geometry, and statistics in social contexts.
In Essential Mathematics there is an emphasis on developing students’ computational skills and expanding their ability to apply their mathematical skills in flexible and resourceful ways.
Successful completion of Stage 1 General Mathematics is required.
Why should a student study it?
Stage 2 Essential Mathematics empowers students with the skills to make informed decisions in real-world situations. It is a practical and highly relevant subject that supports independence, confidence, and capability in navigating adult life. Whether students are managing personal finances, interpreting data, planning projects, or understanding everyday measurements, this subject equips them with the tools to do so with clarity and confidence.
Essential Mathematics is particularly valuable for students who are considering careers in trades, hospitality, retail, administration, community services, or any field where practical numeracy is essential. It strengthens problem-solving abilities and promotes analytical thinking through hands-on applications of mathematics.
This subject also fosters responsibility and precision - qualities that are highly sought after in both further study and the workforce. For students who want to be competent, capable, and self-reliant in handling everyday mathematical demands, Essential Mathematics is an ideal choice.
Students will undertake the following topics:
- Scales, plans and models
- Measurement
- Business applications
- Statistics
- Investments and loans
Learning outcomes:
The learning outcomes for Stage 2 Essential Mathematics focus on developing students’ ability to understand and apply mathematical concepts and techniques to real-world and workplace contexts. Students are expected to build strong computational skills, apply mathematical reasoning to analyse problems, and communicate their findings effectively using appropriate notation and language. The course emphasises practical problem-solving through a problem-based approach and includes the discerning use of technology. Within the key learning areas, students are expected to interpret results, draw logical conclusions, and consider the reasonableness and limitations of their solutions. Overall, the subject prepares students for trades, vocations, and everyday decision-making by fostering confidence and competence in mathematics.
Assessment components include:
- 5x Skills and Application Tasks (30% overall)
- 2x Folio Tasks (40% overall)
- 1x External Examination (30% overall).
Future Pathways:
- Retail or Customer Service Worker
- Administrative Assistant
- Tradesperson (e.g., Workshop Assistant, Apprentice)
- Hospitality Worker
- Entry-Level Office Roles
- Data Entry Clerk
- Small Business Owner
- General Support staff in various industries
Students are encouraged to purchase a MASA Specialist Maths Revision Guide (approximately $30)
Pathways for Mathematics
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