Foundation Mathematics Units 3 and 4
Overview
Foundation Mathematics Units 3 and 4 will help you build on what you have learned in Units 1 and 2. You will further develop the mathematic skills you need for real-life situations. These units focus on practical mathematics that you can use in the workplace, in further studies, or in your daily life.
In these units, you’ll learn how to solve problems using different mathematical tools, like numbers, data, diagrams, tables and graphs. You’ll practice using both mental mathematics and technology to help you with calculations.
The main areas of study are:
- Algebra, numbers, and how they are structured
- Data analysis, probability, and statistics
- Discrete Mathematics (which includes financial and consumer mathematics)
- Space and measurement (which includes geometry and measurement)
These topics will help you understand and use mathematics in ways that are relevant to today’s world.
Who is it for?
This subject is ideal for students who want to develop practical mathematical skills that are directly applicable to real-life situations. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer hands-on learning and want to apply maths to tasks like managing finances, analysing data, and solving practical problems.
This course is designed to meet the needs of students heading into trades, further studies, or navigating the aspects of everyday life. This subject will also provide students with a recognised study program.
What do you do?
The structure of this course consists of weekly tasks, assignments and projects. These tasks will support students to achieve the three outcomes of the course by demonstrating key knowledge and skills related to the areas of study.
Students must complete the weekly practice questions and submit the weekly work and School Assessed Coursework (SACs). The SACs are comprised of three mathematical investigations throughout Unit 3 and 4. There will also be an end-of-year examination which covers all topics studied in Unit 3 and 4.
What skills do you need?
The course places a strong emphasis on applying mathematics to real-world situations encountered in daily life, at home, at work, and in your studies. You will be expected to use a scientific calculator and Excel spreadsheets, as well as various software programs for creating graphs. Successful completion of Units 1 and 2 in Foundation Mathematics is also required.
What skills do you develop?
This course is designed so students will further develop their mathematical skills in identifying, investigating, understanding and solving problems in an everyday practical application of life and work experiences.
Requirements
You will also need the following materials:
- Scientific calculator
- Exercise book for your workings
- Exercise book for your notes
- Ruler
- Protractor
- Access to excel
Things to think about
Assumed knowledge and skills for Foundation Mathematics Units 3 and 4 are contained in Foundation Mathematics Units 1 and 2. The expected workload is approximately 6 – 7 hours of work per week. SACs and weekly submissions are part of this study. You are expected to submit all work requirements according to the submission time line. All work must be completed by the due dates and submitted weekly via VSV Online. CAS calculators are not required for this course and will not be allowed at the end-of-year examination.
Things you can do now
Access the study design for Foundation Mathematics Units 3 and 4. It has a full list of the Areas of Study and the three outcomes that will be covered.
Things to have a look at
VCE Foundation Mathematics – Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA)
VCE Foundation Mathematics Study Design