Mathematics & Statistics
Mathematics is the exploration and use of patterns and relationships in quantities, space and time. Statistics is the exploration and use of patterns and relationships in data. These two disciplines are related, but they present different ways of thinking and of solving problems. Both disciplines equip students with effective means for investigating, interpreting, explaining and making sense of the world in which they live.
By studying Mathematics and Statistics, students develop the ability to think creatively, critically, strategically and logically. They learn to structure and to organise, to carry out procedures flexibly and accurately, to process and communicate information, and to enjoy intellectual challenge. This subject teaches them to create models and predict outcomes, to conjecture, to justify and verify and to seek patterns and generalisations. Students learn to estimate using reason, calculate with precision and understand when results are precise and when they must be interpreted with uncertainty.
Mathematics and Statistics offer a broad range of practical applications in everyday life, in other learning areas and in workplaces. Success in Mathematics will provide students with greater choice for future study and career options.
Years 7 to 10
Mathematics and Statistics are structured in three strands: Number and Algebra, Geometry and Measurement, and Statistics. Classes in Years 7 to 9 are banded by ability.
Students who have completed an advanced course in Mathematics in Year 9 may be invited to undertake NCEA Level 1 in Year 10.
Our Year 7 and 8 programme includes the use of an online learning programme, and we continue to review resources and look at ways to incorporate new technology which will enhance the teaching and learning of Mathematics. In Year 9 and 10, students use an online learning programme, e-text books, workbooks and exercise books.
Years 11 to 13
Mathematics is compulsory in Year 11 and highly recommended in Year 12. Mathematics courses are structured as per the diagram 'Maths Course Structure 2018' under Resources.
Overall, Mathematics achievement across the Department at all levels compares consistently very favourably against the comparative measures of performance from Decile 8-10 boys’ schools, and against the National results. We also achieve higher Merit and Excellence pass rates in most Standards when compared against these same measures, both from internal assessment, and the more robust measures of external assessment. Students are consistently encouraged, supported and reminded to aim for course endorsements which required 14 credits or more at Excellence or Merit, which must be from a combination of internal and external assessment.
In addition to pleasing results from Levels 1 – 3, we are proud of the success our students earn and enjoy at Level 4 Scholarship. These highly motivated students are supported by senior staff who offer additional clinics and individual assistance to support learning at this level. Scholarships in Statistics and Calculus are regularly awarded, as well as high pass rates in pre-University courses in both disciplines.
The Department runs a Maths Clinic which is held in K13 every Wednesday lunchtime. Students are encouraged to come along to receive personalised help; also they may come along and do their homework.
Selected students are entered into a range of Mathematics competitions. As a College, we run a House Mathex competition, and enter selected teams into the Auckland Mathex competition where speed and problem-solving abilities are combined.
"Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard"
Popularised by basketballer Kevin Durant, first spoken by his coach Tim Notke
The Mathematics Department Staff