Albany Senior High School/Coursebook/3MAC

What is this course about?
This course is intended for those students who have successfully completed an NCEA level 2 course or equivalent and are wanting to focus on calculus.

It will prepare students for first year university courses in mathematics, physics and engineering as well as providing a foundation for a future studies in subjects such as biomathematics and economics.

The course will provide a basis for study towards the calculus scholarship exams should students wish to enter.

It is recommended that students should have passed NCEA achievement standards 91257, 91261, 91262 and 91259 before entering this course. Those who have not will need to show considerable commitment and seek additional support if they wish to achieve in this course.

What will I learn?
You will learn about:


 * how to differentiate and integrate trigonometry functions and complicated algebraic functions
 * how to use trigonometric identities to solve problems
 * complex numbers and how we can represent information in two dimensions at the same time

What sorts of things will I do?
You'll use your graphical calculator and software such as Geogebra, Fathom and spreadsheets to model real world situations. You'll contribute to the development of the mathematics section of ASHS' wikieducator by summarising your understanding of and demonstrating examples of how to use the various concepts you will be learning about. These may take the form of mindmaps, videos, or split-screened examples etc.

What standards can I enter?
The main part of this table summarises the standard course provided. At the end are listed alternatives which students can select in consultation with their parents, maths teachers and tutor teachers.

The code letters under Assessment have the following meanings:

N - NCEA and UE numeracy                    L - NCEA literacy                    R - UE reading literacy                     W - UE writing literacy

Please check the actual date of the assessment on the ASHS Assessment Calendar

Scholarship opportunities
Students who excel at statistics and probability will be encouraged to enter the scholarship exams. They will be provided with resources, direction and support but, to have a chance of achieving well, will need to be committed:


 * extensive self directed study and practice,
 * participation in a student work group on a regular basis throughout the year, and
 * attend the workshops given by teachers to cover areas of the curriculum not covered by the 3MAC course.

Frequently asked questions:
What calculator will I need?


 * Graphics calculators are required. The Casio FX9750GII is recommended.
 * Students using only a basic scientific calculator will be significantly disadvantaged since NZQA assumes that all students have access to graphics calculators.
 * Costs: Casio FX9750GII. These are normally available for about $95 at the beginning of the year.

Are there any reassessments for internal standards?

Reassessment will be offered in term 4 after those doing externals go on study leave. Reassessment will be limited to 91573, 91574 and 91576.

What happens if I miss an internal assessment?


 * You must submit a "Missed Assessment" form and get it approved by the specialist subject leader.
 * Approval will only be given if the requirements of the missed assessment policy are met, it is practical for the assessment to be done at another time and that other time is before the final grades are returned to students.
 * If you do not sit an assessment you will automatically receive a "Not Achieved" grade as per NZQA rules.

Do I have to do all the standards in the course?


 * YES. You will be entered for all standards in the core course and are expected to give your best effort in all of them. The only exceptions will where an individual learning plan is approved by the specialist subject leader after consultation with your parents, tutor and student services.
 * This will only be approved where students have attempted the external topics and find them too difficult, in which case alternative internal standards may be included in their curriculum.
 * Students and parents must ensure that the individualised learning plan will still meet the entry requirements for tertiary study. Some courses specify 14 credits from Calculus or Mathematics as a prerequisite for entry. This may not be achieved in a reduced individualised plan.