In Year 11 and Year 12, students must choose which mathematics subject to take on the Australian exam: Advanced or Extension. Both branches are equally important, but they offer very different paths and approaches. However, due to the complexity of preparation and the lack of demand for other educational options, NESA gradually lowered the minimum threshold for passing the exam. Currently, mathematics is divided into two versions: Advanced and Extension. You can pursue either type, but keep in mind that if you choose Extension 1 Mathematics, you must also complete Advanced Mathematics. Do you know why?
Today, we’ll discuss the differences between these levels and the rationale behind this distinction.
What is Advanced Mathematics?
Advanced Mathematics offers an understanding of the basic mathematical concepts needed to solve advanced mathematical problems and cultivate analytical thinking. Advanced Mathematics involves understanding advanced mathematical concepts and their applications in different situations.
Some of the subjects that will be covered in Advanced Mathematics include the following:
- Calculus – Differentiation and integration of mathematical problems
- Functions and Graphs – Complete understanding of functions and their applications
- Statistics – Data analysis and probability distribution
By undertaking this course, you will be able to enhance your problem-solving skills and cultivate your mathematical way of thinking. It is particularly suitable for all those who like analytical thinking.
What Is Mathematics Extension 1?
Mathematics Extension 1 is based on the fundamental ideas of mathematics that one learns in Advanced Mathematics. It covers some advanced topics in mathematics. This subject is meant for students who are passionate about math and would like to explore math.
The topics covered under Mathematics Extension 1 are as follows:
- Advanced Calculus and Functions – study of the advanced ideas of calculus and functions and their applications.
- Vectors and Mechanics – use of the ideas of vectors to solve math problems
- Proving Mathematical Theorems – learning how mathematical theorems can be proved.
You will gain insight into math with advanced applications and mathematical theorems here.
How Do You Know Which One To Choose?
Here are some questions for you to ask yourself:
- Do you like to solve difficult problems of math and explore the basics of calculus, functions and statistics? → Choose Advanced Mathematics.
- Do you want to study advanced mathematics that involves advanced calculus, vectors, mechanics and mathematical proofs? → Choose Extension 1 Mathematics.
- Do you intend to focus on STEM disciplines in college, such as engineering, mathematics, physics, computer science? → Choose Advanced Mathematics or Extension 1 Mathematics. These subjects would be very helpful for you.
- Do you like challenges and want to go beyond Advanced Mathematics? → Choose Extension 1 Mathematics.
But there is one thing you have to remember:
If you choose Extension 1 Mathematics, you will have to study Advanced Mathematics too. Extension 1 Math is an additional subject based on the Advanced Mathematics curriculum. Extension 1 Math is not a separate subject.
This is not a choice between two options. You just need to decide how much math you can handle.
How About Workplace Then?
Advanced Math gives you a solid background for further education and a career in engineering, sciences, technologies, economics, finance, statistics, and more.
Extension 1 Mathematics helps develop higher-level problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and proof. Thus, it is perfect preparation for university studies in mathematics, engineering, physics, computer science, actuarial studies, and other areas involving advanced mathematics.
Both ways are equally good. Your preference will ondepend by your interests and goals.
5 Inspiring Reasons to Study Math for Future
We’ve compiled five innovative reasons to motivate you in your studies.
[1] Mathematics Is a Brain Trainer
Even working on solving elementary equations or percentages develops intelligence and makes it versatile. Systematising, analysing, reducing, recognising patterns, making hypotheses – all of this contributes to developing necessary skills, similar to how physical activity helps build muscle strength and body flexibility.
Learning rules and applying them in problem solving makes a person’s thought process logical and consistent, developing the ability to reason and draw conclusions. This skill will prove useful not only in an academic environment but also in practical life situations, like selecting the optimal mobile plan or calculating how much laminate flooring is needed for remodelling.
[2] Mathematics Develops Universal Qualities
Solving mathematical equations is not enough to know all the rules because you have to be attentive, persistent, precise, and accurate. It means that while you are solving your math task, you are also working on other skills. By the way, you may pass a free attentiveness test on the Internet.
[3] Mathematics Trains Memory
In order to perform the exercise, you need to remember the rules and examples that you have already solved. It will help reinforce new information and increase your memorisation capacity. Take a free online memory test right away.
[4] Mathematics Helps You Succeed In Other Subjects Too
Mathematics is inseparable from physics, geography, geology, chemistry, and economics. Even in the humanities, many conclusions are based on mathematical and logical models and laws, for example, in linguistics.
[5] Mathematics can be the basis for career development
It was fashionable to study foreign languages and law ten years ago; today the hottest trend is IT, and math plays an important role there. Intellectual abilities like digital intelligence, skills in analysing data, and making creative decisions will be much appreciated and will distinguish you from the crowd.
Math is a universal and practical language that can’t be underestimated! There are various benefits of studying math; however, the main benefit is that you will develop your thinking abilities and various skills; besides, it will give you pleasure.
Conclusion
Entering university to study mathematics is an exciting challenge. Whether you’re drawn to the formal or the practical, the abstract or the numerical, the important thing is to know what to expect from each. Get in touch with Kalibre Education and talk to the professionals about your matter.
