Changes to VCE Mathematical Methods Study Design
Units 1:
→ Matrix representation of transformations may be used but are not required.
→ Non-function relations removed and use of vertical line test to determine whether a graph is a function also removed
→ Expansion of \(\left(x+a\right)^n\) removed.
Units 2:
→ First principles removed
→ Central difference approximations added
Units 3 and 4:
→ Matrix representation of transformations removed
→ Simple functional relations such as \(f\left(x+k\right)=f\left(x\right)\), \(f\left(x^n\right)=nf\left(x\right)\), \(f\left(x\right)+f\left(-x\right)=0\), \(f\left(xy\right)=f\left(x\right)f\left(y\right)\) removed
→ \(f\:\circ \:g\) notation required
→ Approximation of area under a curve using rectangles removed
→ Approximation of area under a curve using trapeziums added
Other changes:
⭐ Computational thinking and algorithms added, this includes:
→ The role of computational thinking (abstraction, decomposition, pattern and algorithm) in problem-solving, and its application to mathematical investigation
→ Use computational thinking, algorithms, models and simulations to solve problems related to a given context
→ Key elements of algorithm design, including sequencing, decision-making and repetition, and representations of the ordered steps for an algorithm including through the use of pseudocode.
→ The purpose and effect of sequencing, decision-making and repetition statements on relevant functionalities of technology, and their role in the design of algorithms and simulations
→ Apply a range of analytical, graphical and numerical processes (including the algorithm for Newton’s method)
Contribution to final assessment:
→ 20% for Exam 1 (previously was 22%)
→ 40% for Exam 2 (previously was 44%)
I haven't read the whole thing personally, but something added into 3/4 methods is the addition of pseudocode. This is interesting but also rather odd to be adding in imo 🤔
It does seem strange, but it sounds interesting - I wish we learnt this!
This is the main thing I think teachers, and students are concerned about. I wonder how pseudocode will even be examined...
If I forgot to add anything to this summary of changes, please let me know and if anyone has any useful resources pertaining algorithms and pseudocode - it would be greatly appreciated if you could post them! :)
I would love to hear other peoples thoughts on these changes as well, do you think it will have an effect on scaling? Do you think these are improvements or just trivial amendments?