Mathematics
The study of mathematics is mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10.
Mathematics helps students develop problem-solving skills, logical thinking and confidence in using numbers, patterns, data, measurement and mathematical reasoning in real-world contexts. In Stage 6, students can choose from a range of Mathematics courses depending on their strengths, interests, future study goals and career pathways.
By studying mathematics, students learn to work mathematically – developing fluency, understanding, problem-solving, reasoning and communication skills.
The syllabus consists of the following strands:
- number and algebra
- measurement and geometry
- statistics and probability.
For official syllabus information, see the NSW Curriculum/NESA Mathematics syllabuses page.
Stage 4 and Stage 5
Year 7 Mathematics supports students as they transition into high school and build confidence with key mathematical skills. Students strengthen their understanding of number, algebra, measurement, geometry, statistics and probability through explicit teaching, problem-solving and real-world applications.
Students are encouraged to develop positive learning habits, mathematical reasoning and the confidence to explain their thinking.
Students will develop skills in:
| Area | Focus |
| Number | Whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages and integers |
| Algebra | Patterns, basic algebraic expressions and equations |
| Measurement | Length, area, volume, time and units of measurement |
| Geometry | Angles, shapes, position and transformations |
| Statistics and probability | Data displays, chance and simple probability |
Year 8 Mathematics builds on the foundations developed in Year 7 and encourages students to apply their skills to more complex problems. Students continue to develop fluency, understanding, reasoning and problem-solving across a range of mathematical areas.
The course helps students make connections between mathematical concepts and everyday situations, while preparing them for the increasing challenge of Stage 5 Mathematics.
Students will develop skills in:
| Area | Focus |
| Number | Fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios and rates |
| Algebra | Equations, expressions, patterns and linear relationships |
| Measurement | Perimeter, area, volume and practical measurement problems |
| Geometry | Angles, properties of shapes and transformations |
| Statistics and probability | Collecting, representing and interpreting data |
Year 9 Mathematics supports students to deepen their mathematical understanding and begin applying more sophisticated strategies to solve problems. Students develop skills in algebra, financial mathematics, measurement, geometry, statistics and probability.
Learning is designed to help students build confidence, independence and readiness for senior Mathematics pathways.
Students will develop skills in:
| Area | Focus |
| Number and financial mathematics | Percentages, interest, earning money and financial decision-making |
| Algebra | Equations, indices, linear relationships and graphing |
| Measurement | Area, surface area, volume and scale |
| Geometry | Angles, similarity, congruence and geometrical reasoning |
| Statistics and probability | Data analysis, probability and interpreting information |
Year 10 Mathematics prepares students for Stage 6 Mathematics pathways and supports them to make informed decisions about senior subject selection. Students consolidate and extend their skills in number, algebra, measurement, geometry, statistics and probability.
The course helps students develop mathematical confidence, problem-solving strategies and the ability to apply Mathematics to further study, work and everyday life.
Students are supported to choose an appropriate Stage 6 Mathematics course, including Mathematics Standard, Mathematics Advanced or Mathematics Extension pathways.
Students will develop skills in:
| Area | Focus |
| Number and finance | Rates, ratios, percentages, financial maths and practical applications |
| Algebra | Equations, inequalities, functions, graphing and algebraic reasoning |
| Measurement | Area, volume, surface area, trigonometry and practical measurement |
| Geometry | Similarity, congruence, angles and deductive reasoning |
| Statistics and probability | Data analysis, probability, variation and interpretation |
Stage 6
In Year 11 and 12, the study of Mathematics is optional. Courses offered include:
Mathematics Extension 2 is the most challenging Mathematics course offered in the HSC. It is designed for students with a strong interest and high achievement in Mathematics who are considering future study in areas such as engineering, mathematics, physics, computer science, actuarial studies or other highly mathematical fields.
Students study advanced mathematical concepts and are expected to demonstrate strong problem-solving, reasoning and independent learning skills.
Best suited to: students who are highly capable in Mathematics and already studying Mathematics Extension 1.
Mathematics Extension 1 is designed for students who enjoy Mathematics and want to study more complex and abstract mathematical ideas. This course extends the content of Mathematics Advanced and supports students who may need a strong mathematical foundation for university study.
Students develop deeper skills in algebra, functions, calculus, trigonometry, statistics and mathematical reasoning.
Best suited to: students considering future study in areas such as science, engineering, economics, medicine, technology or mathematics-related fields.
Website button:
Learn more about Mathematics Extension 1
Mathematics Advanced is a calculus-based course for students who have a strong understanding of Mathematics and want to apply mathematical skills to complex problems.
The course supports students who may need Mathematics for university study or future careers involving science, health, business, economics, engineering, technology or data analysis.
Best suited to: students who are confident in Mathematics and want to keep strong university and career pathways open.
Mathematics Standard 2 is designed for students who want to continue studying Mathematics for the HSC and develop practical mathematical skills for further study, work and everyday life.
Students apply Mathematics to real-world contexts such as finance, measurement, networks, data, probability and practical problem-solving.
Best suited to: students who want an HSC Mathematics course that supports a broad range of post-school pathways, including university, TAFE, apprenticeships, traineeships and employment.
Mathematics Standard 1 focuses on practical numeracy and mathematical skills for everyday life, work and further training. Students explore Mathematics in real-world contexts, including personal finance, measurement, data, travel, probability and workplace situations.
Students studying Mathematics Standard 1 may choose to sit the optional HSC examination.
Best suited to: students who want to build confidence and practical mathematical skills for employment, vocational education, apprenticeships, traineeships or further training.
Mathematics Life Skills is designed for students who are working towards personalised learning goals and require adjustments to access Stage 6 Mathematics. The course focuses on practical mathematical skills that support independence, participation and everyday life.
Students may develop skills in number, money, measurement, time, location, data and problem-solving in familiar and meaningful contexts. Life Skills outcomes are selected according to each student’s strengths, needs, goals and prior learning.
Best suited to: students accessing a Life Skills pattern of study as part of their personalised learning pathway.
