2020 School Magazine

YEAR 11 SPECIALIST MATHEMATICS

W hen Specialist Mathematics began at the start of the year, it is safe to say we all felt slightly nervous about delving into a new domain of challenging topics. From proofs to vectors and complex numbers, Specialist Mathematics has definitely encouraged us to approach mathematics from new perspectives. We have learned to apply our skills to real-life scenarios, such as using vectors to solve force problems similar those we learn about in Physics, and we have expanded on our knowledge of the trigonometry we use in Mathematical Methods when modelling periodic occurrences, such as tide height. Choosing this subject has resulted in many intriguing and ultimately rewarding

experiences. And, it could be said that our initial fears were irrational! Samantha Atherton (11L), Laura Mahon (11G) and Emily Nilsen (11M)

T he Year 12 Mathematical Methods cohort began this year by reflecting on how far we had come, in the knowledge that we were nearing the finish line. The interrelated topics in Units 3 and Unit 4 this year allowed us to dive deeper in the subject and immerse ourselves in more complex and challenging problems. With the focus on calculus, we built on our differentiation and integration skills, learned new rules, explored further applications of log laws, and expanded our trigonometric capabilities to include three-dimensional geometries. We investigated both discrete and continuous probabilities and learned the full potential of our trusty graphics calculators. As we progressed to more complex concepts, such as normal distributions, we gained greater knowledge of the real-life applications of probability and its relevance to growing populations and samples. Matisse Black (12H), Alexia Georgas (12B) and Matina Samios (12W) YEAR 12 MATHEMATICAL METHODS Y ear 12 General Mathematics has been a fantastic subject for preparing us for life beyond school. We have studied a range of topics, from finance through to earth geometry and time zones, but graphing is where we draw the line! General Mathematics has also provided us with analytical and problem-solving skills to use in a range of contexts. Sophie Watson (12E) YEAR 12 GENERAL MATHEMATICS

YEAR 12 SPECIALIST MATHEMATICS

O ur Year 12 Specialist Mathematics cohort, while small, packs a big punch. The girls have enjoyed learning a a variety of challenging topics and thrived in the subject this year. Expanding on our two dimensional vector knowledge, we introduced the third dimension and the third component: k. Visualising these complex coordinates on a three dimensional plane with the help of Geogebra, we were able to translate these equations into real-life applications. We explored more efficient methods of calculating and ranking sporting results for the QGSSSA competition in our PSMT using dominance matrices. Furthering our knowledge from Mathematical Methods, the Specialist Mathematics syllabus explored more difficult integration and differentiation methods, such as integration by parts, substitution and trigonometric identities. Moving into statistical application, we evaluated reasonableness of population samples, focussing on distributions of sample means. We also investigated

exponential distributions, but they are easy to forget (memoryless). Matisse Black (12H), Alexia Georgas (12B) and Matina Samios (12W)

84 | BRISBANE GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL 2020