Mathematics
By studying mathematics, students develop the ability to think strategically and logically as they learn to organise, to carry out procedures flexibly and accurately, to process and communicate information, and to enjoy intellectual challenge.
Students also learn to develop other important thinking skills through the process of creating models and predicting outcomes, justifying and verifying results, and in seeking patterns and generalisations. They learn to estimate with reasonableness, calculate with precision, and understand when results are precise and when they must be interpreted with uncertainty.
Mathematics has a broad range of practical applications in everyday life, in other learning areas, and in workplaces.
Students are strongly encouraged to continue mathematics though to Year 13 as the majority of tertiary programmes and vocational courses require mathematics at NCEA Level 2 or 3.
Why learn Mathematics?
Technology is everywhere around us, and you need mathematics to master it. The way i-pads and other devices work is based on mathematical designs and thinking. Mathematics is also useful in everyday life: estimating costs, shopping, measuring, managing money, planning trips and so on.
Where can Mathematics lead?
Mathematics is not just about numbers; it is about patterns too. Jobs like fashion and interior design will benefit from mathematics skills. Mathematics is also fundamental to the study of engineering, economics, virtually all science subjects and is useful for many other subjects.
Business careers need mathematics and statistics to produce reports that can be understood at different levels of interest. In fact, most top-paying jobs need good mathematics skills: doctors, vets, engineers, scientists, plumbers, electricians, builders - the list goes on.
Please note: Students are required to take Mathematics and Statistics until the end of Year 11. However, a decision not to continue with the subject into Years 12 and 13 should not be made lightly as many tertiary courses require Mathematics at NCEA Level 2 or 3.
Can Year 8 Students Advance into Year 10 or 11 Mathematics?
To identify whether a student can advance from Year 8 directly into Year 10 or 11 mathematics, the following processes are utilized:
A. Diagnostic Testing with Primary Teacher/School Recommendation
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Primary school teachers’ insights into a student’s aptitude, work ethic, and overall performance in Year 8 mathematics can provide valuable input. Teachers might base their recommendations on the student’s classroom participation, engagement with challenging problems, and consistent academic achievement.
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e-asTTle/PAT results, detailed primary school results
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Participation in math competitions at inter school level such as MATHEX, Math Olympiad, problem solving competitions by AMA and others OR;
B. Standardized Testing
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Howick College will use standardised tests to evaluate a student’s mathematical knowledge, skills, and readiness for higher-level content. Assessments might include problem-solving, algebra, and other advanced concepts relevant to Year 10 or Year 11
*Standardized testing is only offered to students that cannot provide documentation as mentioned in (A) or at the discretion of the Head of Learning Area - Mathematics and Statistics.
C. Trial Period in Advanced Class
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A trial period during which the student attends advanced math classes for a few weekss, where they will be observed to assess whether they can cope with the pace and complexity of Year 10 or 11 content.
These processes allow teachers to holistically assess a student’s readiness for advanced mathematics coursework, ensuring a supportive environment for accelerated learning.
IMPORTANT POINTS TO NOTE:
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Howick College believes in providing opportunities and encouraging students to participate in competitions that equip them with skills and experiences that extend far beyond academics, preparing them for both personal and professional success. For this reason, all students part of the multi-levelling MUST be willing to participate in all Junior/Senior Math competitions as the school requires.
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Multi-level placement is not guaranteed throughout your child’s five years at Howick College. At the end of each academic year, a thorough review of achievement results will be conducted. Only students who have consistently demonstrated excellence in their grades will be considered for continuation in a multi-level pathway for the subsequent school year.