Mathematics and Statistics

Mathematics and Statistics: Pāngarau

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engari kia mau ki te aka matua.

What is mathematics and statistics about? 

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 different ways of thinking and of solving problems. Both equip students with effective means for investigating, interpreting, explaining, and making sense of the world in which they live. Mathematicians and statisticians use symbols, graphs, and diagrams to help them find and communicate patterns and relationships, and they create models to represent both real-life and hypothetical situations. These situations are drawn from a wide range of social, cultural, scientific, technological, health, environmental, and economic contexts. 

Why study mathematics and statistics? 

By studying mathematics and statistics, students develop the ability to think creatively, critically, strategically, and logically. Mathematics and statistics have a broad range of practical applications in everyday life, in other learning areas, and in workplaces.

By studying mathematics and statistics, students:

• learn to structure and to organise, to carry out procedures flexibly and accurately, to process and communicate information, and to enjoy intellectual challenge. 
• learn to create models and predict outcomes, to conjecture, to justify and verify, and to seek patterns and generalisations. 
•  learn to estimate with reasonableness, calculate with precision, and understand when results are precise and when they must be interpreted with uncertainty. 

Reference: Mathematics and Statistics in the New Zealand Curriculum

Year 9 & Year 10 Courses

Students in Year 9 must complete a full year of Mathematics and Statistics. In Semester One they study Number , Algebra, Geometric Reasoning and Transformational Geometry. In Semester Two they will study Proportional thinking (including financial literacy), Measurement, Probability and Statistics.

Students in Year 10 must complete a full year of Mathematics and Statistics. In Semester One they study Number, Algebra, Geometry Reasoning and Multivariate Investigation. In Semester Two they study Probability and Statistics;Tables, Equations and Graphs; Geometry and Measurement.

High Performing Students in Year 9 will have the option of going into an enrichment Mathematics and Statistics  program in Year 10.

Students who are below the expected Level for Numeracy in Year 9 and/ or Year 10 may be involved in a numeracy support programme. Students' Numeracy Level will be determined through the triangulation of standardised tests, assessments and overall teacher judgement.

Please also note that because the way the courses in Mathematics and Statistics branch off in Year 11 , the preparation of students in the Junior school is important. Some careers require Calculus in Level 3 which generally requires success with Algebra in Years 9 and 10.  Additionally, there are many subjects ( e.g Physics, Chemistry and Economics) that require a high level of Mathematics which is best achieved through the 6MAC and 7MAC courses. Be sure to read the prerequisites for these courses and/or discuss with your current Mathematics teacher.

2025 Course Options

Optional courses will only run subject to a minimum number of students selecting the option.
Course Options in BOLD are compulsory.
Courses in italics are not available for selection. Students will be counselled into these courses.

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Course options in this Learning Area