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.

Why study mathematics and statistics?

Mathematics and statistics have a broad range of practical applications in everyday life, in other learning areas, and in workplaces. By learning mathematics and statistics students develop important thinking skills including the ability to think creatively, critically, strategically, and logically. Students also learn to structure and to organise, to carry out procedures flexibly and accurately, to process and communicate information, and to enjoy intellectual challenge.

How is the learning areas structured

Mathematics and statistics is structured around three interconnected strands:

Number and Algebra
Number involves calculating and estimating (and knowing when appropriate to estimate and if results are reasonable), using appropriate mental, written, or machine calculation methods in flexible ways.

Geometry and Measurement
Geometry involves recognising and using the properties and symmetries of shapes and describing position and movement. Measurement involves quantifying the attributes of objects, using appropriate units and instruments. It also involves predicting and calculating rates of change.

Statistics
Statistics involves identifying problems that can be explored by the use of appropriate data, designing investigations, collecting data, exploring and using patterns and relationships in data, solving problems, and communicating findings. Statistics also involves interpreting statistical information, evaluating data-based arguments, and dealing with uncertainty and variation.