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Level A (Towards Foundation)

Level A Description

In Level A, students experience and respond to personally relevant and familiar situations and events that regularly and routinely involve activities and actions such as comparing, adding and removing, distributing, placing and moving.

Level A Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Number and place value Elaborations
  1. Respond to objects being counted and distributed (VCMNA001)
    1. experiencing number names and number sequence in everyday experiences, for example birthdays, distributing equipment, collecting materials
    2. experiencing number and its use in stories, songs and rhythm, chosen for their interest and relevance to the student’s age
    3. attending to number and counting in daily routines, for example cups of flour in the bowl, number of times an action or event is repeated or experienced
    4. reacting to everyday situations where objects are counted, for example number of items on a plate or tray, steps to the door, eggs in the carton, bounces of a ball
    5. being supported as they touch, feel or move over objects as they are being counted
  2. Respond to situations where counting is involved (VCMNA002)
    1. experiencing to number name, numerals and quantities in everyday experiences
    2. experiencing activities that use number names, numerals and quantities, for example stories, songs, cooking, music
    3. attending to and being aware of number as objects are being counted
    4. reacting to objects moving, disappearing and re-appearing within the context of everyday situations
    5. responding to wanting more or less of an object
  3. Respond to groups of personally relevant objects (VCMNA003)
    1. experiencing objects and groups of objects, for example through sensory activities
    2. experiencing groups of objects of significantly different sizes
    3. reacting to collections within the context of everyday familiar situations, for example collections of favourite food, jewellery, utensils, or collections based on colour or texture
  4. Respond to situations where the comparison of two collections or objects is involved (VCMNA004)
    1. experiencing objects being collected and grouped together
    2. using objects which are personally relevant to create collections
    3. reacting to the comparison of everyday objects and collections of objects, for example using one-to-one correspondence to compare art equipment, cooking utensils, balls, sensory objects
  5. Respond to the removal and addition of familiar items and objects in practical situations (VCMNA005)
    1. experiencing changes in quantity that occur during addition and subtraction within everyday experiences
    2. attending to the adding and subtraction of familiar objects
    3. reacting to changes in a collection when objects are added or subtracted
  6. React to practical situations of sharing (VCMNA006)
    1. experiencing objects being distributed and assisting to distribute objects to others in everyday situations
    2. reacting to objects being shared and distributed
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. React to everyday financial situations involving money (VCMNA007)
    1. being supported to experience the sensory characteristics of coins and notes
    2. experiencing money being exchanged, counted and stored in various situations
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Respond to the identification of objects (VCMNA008)
    1. experiencing patterns and the sorting of objects in everyday situations, for example repeated rhythm, pattern on textured material or objects, sorting of materials and utensils
    2. becoming aware of ready-made visual, musical and multimodal patterns, for example, computer programs, stripes, dots, textures, sounds
  2. Respond to repeated routines in everyday events (VCMNA009)
    1. experience steps to solve a problem
    2. experience steps and sequences in everyday tasks
    3. respond to repetition and repeated experiences within everyday life

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Respond to objects based on length (VCMMG010)
    1. experiencing objects of various lengths
    2. experiencing measurement attributes through the use of sensory input and objects
    3. reacting to various measurement attributes of familiar objects, and being introduced to the names of those attributes, in the context of everyday experiences
  2. Respond to personally relevant everyday events (VCMMG011)
    1. experiencing everyday events and their associated equipment and sensory elements
    2. reacting to changes in their environment associated with everyday events
    3. experiencing visuals being used to represent regular events
    4. reacting to objects and tools associated with routine everyday events
  3. Respond to personally relevant routine events (VCMMG012)
    1. experiencing events and their equipment, staff, and sensory elements
    2. experiencing events and their characteristics being represented by images or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)
    3. reacting to routine events with the support of objects, sounds and textures
    4. reacting and responding to daily events within the context of a range of practical situations, for example reacting to the bell for lunch time, responding to the timer, staff or an image for maths
Shape Elaborations
  1. Respond to familiar everyday shapes and objects (VCMMG013)
    1. experiencing a variety of objects and their characteristics, and being introduced to the names of shapes through interaction with objects
    2. reacting to three-dimensional objects in everyday situations with the use of sensory input, for example touching, feeling, looking, shaking, rolling
    3. responding to objects and shapes as they are identified in the classroom and environment in everyday situations
Location and transformation Elaborations
  1. Respond to movement of an object (VCMMG014)
    1. experiencing movement and position within various environments and everyday events, for example exploring the concept of ‘inside and outside’ during structured activities
    2. experiencing the language used to name movement and changes in position during everyday experiences, such as up, down, over, under
    3. reacting to a variety of body positions and movements within the context of everyday activities
    4. using everyday language of location and position to assist students to react to changes to objects and their body, for example, ‘arms up’, ‘I am moving your bag’, ‘Where did it go?’
    5. reaching for or looking for a desired object by moving head or body for a better view

Statistics and Probability

Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Respond to objects relevant to a given context (VCMSP015)
    1. experiencing the collection, sorting and displaying of information and data, for example visual display of who is here today with photos of class members’ present
    2. associating objects with familiar events, within the context of practical situations, for example recognising connection between own bag and lunchtime, equipment for art, sport, or cooking and the associated activity
    3. experiencing the phenomena of chance by attending to activities and toys that demonstrate chance occurrences
  2. Respond to objects being moved and organised to make a data display (VCMSP016)
    1. experiencing people's choices being organised into a simple display
  3. Experience data display being interpreted (VCMSP017)

Level A Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students observe the use of number within their daily life. They begin to respond to numbers in everyday experiences. Students demonstrate awareness of counting by responding to number rhymes, songs, stories and finger games. They experience and respond to ‘one for you, one for me’, ‘gone’, ‘no more left’ and ‘give me more’. Students participate in making piles, groups or bundles of familiar everyday objects and respond to objects being put together and taken apart.

Measurement and Geometry

Students observe and explore objects within daily life. They react and respond to objects and experience measurement attributes in practical situations. Students explore objects of varying weights, lengths, capacities and materials. They show an awareness of time and daily routine by responding to a signal from the teacher, and items being brought out or removed. Students respond to a signal from a timer, used to indicate the end of an activity. Students explore and respond to objects of varying textures, colours, sizes and shapes. Students explore space by moving and changing position and location, and respond to changes in position.

Statistics and Probability

Students observe objects and events within their daily life. Students begin to display a similar and predictable reaction to regular events. They respond to major changes to regular games and activities associated with chance, surprise and predictability, such as moving a switch to activate a toy.

Level B (Towards Foundation)

Level B Description

In Level B, students participate in everyday activities involving making simple correspondences between objects, and explore qualitative, quantitative and comparative concepts in action and language such as none, one, more, same, different, again and gather.

They recognise regularity in some events and that not all events are certain.

Level B Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Number and place value Elaborations
  1. Use number names ‘one’, ‘two’ and ‘three’ in sequence to count in everyday situations (VCMNA018)
    1. assisting to count objects initially to three, by participating in activities, stories, songs and rhymes that involve number. This could include nodding as objects are counted, tapping an object as it is counted, tracking objects being counted, repeating some number names as objects are being counted
    2. responding to number of names in everyday situations, for example waiting for counting down or up before starting an action, sound, activity; stepping, clapping, making a sound, tapping a switch for each number
    3. exploring and using some number names by ‘repeating’ number name either verbally or through a communication system or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)
  2. Correspond ‘one’ with a single object (VCMNA019)
    1. showing understanding of object permanency, by tracking and finding an object
    2. exploring ‘oneness’ and indicate one, for example one clap, experiencing one object, giving out materials one at a time, requesting one, hearing one sound or beat
    3. distributing objects and materials with support, using basic one-to-one correspondence
  3. Explore the concept of ‘none’, ‘one’ and ‘more’ (VCMNA020)
    1. recognising a change in a collection’s size within the context of familiar, everyday objects, for example a group of cars, toys, lollies, fruit, vegetables, coins, books, materials or tools
    2. demonstrating an understanding of one by selecting, giving or taking one object
    3. responding to questions about group composition (for example ‘Which group has more?’ ‘Which group has none?’) verbally or by indicating through augmentative and alternative communication, actions or eye gaze
  4. Make comparison between items using appropriate language such as ‘same’ or ‘different’ (VCMNA021)
    1. comparing two collections using one to one correspondence within the context of everyday situations
    2. responding to questions about group comparison for example ‘Are they the same?’ ‘Or different?’ verbally or by indicating through augmentative and alternative communication, actions or eye gaze
  5. Participate in everyday situations involving ‘adding’ and ‘taking away’ (VCMNA022)
    1. combining two groups of objects to make ‘more’ within the context of familiar everyday situations
    2. participating in everyday situations that involve moving objects to make ‘less’ or ‘more’, for example dragging an object to or from a group, using a switch to initiate the action or augmentative and alternative communication to communicate the action required
  6. Respond to everyday practical situations of sharing (VCMNA023)
    1. responding to the prompt to “share” by giving an object to another
    2. assisting to hand out materials so everyone has the same materials
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Respond to everyday financial situations involving money and match notes and coins (VCMNA024)
    1. matching coins or notes one to one which are 'the same'
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Participate in the comparison of objects, using language such as ‘same’ and ‘different’ (VCMNA025)
    1. recognising patterns through the concept of ‘same’ and ‘different’ objects within the context of everyday situations
    2. repeating rhythm patterns (with movement or sound)
    3. making simple patterns by stacking and lining up objects
    4. sorting everyday familiar objects during shared experiences, for example, when cooking, playing sport or playing with toys such as blocks
  2. Follow a simple cause and effect process (VCMNA026)
    1. following routine everyday visual steps to solve everyday problem
    2. explore cause and effects through play

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Compare objects using direct comparison (VCMMG027)
    1. exploring objects in structured situations based on length
    2. matching objects that are from a small field and identical in length
    3. showing recognition or preference for an object based on its mass, capacity or length within a range of situations
  2. Recognise and participate in familiar events that happen on a daily basis (VCMMG028)
    1. recognising the sequence of familiar events, for example ‘first and then’, with the support of picture-based schedules
    2. understanding and using environmental cues such as equipment, staff and location to predict and identify activities
    3. assisting in the construction of visual timetable for the class
    4. responding to the signal from a timer to indicate the end of an activity
  3. Participate in regular daily events (VCMMG029)
    1. developing an awareness of regular events and routines, with the support of daily and weekly visual schedules
    2. recognising and following the routines at the start and end of the day
Shape Elaborations
  1. Identify when two shapes or objects are the same sort or not (VCMMG030)
    1. using ‘posting’ of items into different containers or holes to manipulate and sort shapes and objects
    2. recognising three dimensional objects when identified in the environment using everyday situations
    3. matching everyday objects that are ‘the same’
    4. exploring shapes by using ‘play dough’ and other malleable materials to make shapes
    5. developing an awareness of the language used to describe shapes
Location and transformation Elaborations
  1. Respond to a simple statement about location or direction (VCMMG031)
    1. following directional communication used in daily routine, for example, ‘put in’ to finish an activity, ‘sit down’, ‘stand up’ during an activity or program
    2. following everyday language of location and direction through modelled daily routines, for example: looking upwards for ‘up’; using rhymes and chants that relate to movement; following a warm-up sequence for work or sport; unpacking their bag; washing their hands and setting up for lunch
    3. exploring the concept of ‘inside’ and ‘outside’ during activities by putting objects ‘in’ and ‘out’ of a container and following routines and instructions that involve moving inside and outside locations

Statistics and Probability

Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Participate in data collection (VCMSP032)
    1. following the construction of data display, for example picture representations of student choices, presented as class display of hair colour, favourite colour, song, movie, character
    2. assisting to identify pictures that represent daily routines and events in a data display
    3. choosing pictures or objects to put in a data display
  2. Participate in the grouping of data (VCMSP033)
    1. answering a yes/no question and assisting to place their response in a data display
    2. experiencing the representation of everyday situations and choices in simple date displays
    3. match a response to a given category
  3. Experiencing data being used for decision making in everyday situations (VCMSP034)
    1. experiencing data being totalled and read
    2. experiencing data being used to identify the most popular choice and to make decisions on choices such as the type of transport they will use, animals they will visit first at the zoo, what book the class will read

Level B Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students participate in everyday activities that involve numbers and counting, comparing groups of objects, and pattern activities. Students can rote count to three. Students identify ‘one’ and ‘lots’ of objects and show an understanding of ‘more’ in familiar situations. They manipulate objects and build a tall tower by using ‘more’ blocks and take blocks away from a tower to make the tower ‘less’ tall.

Measurement and Geometry

Students participate in everyday activities that explore measurement and use measurement attributes in practical situations. Students demonstrate beginning understanding of basic measurement concepts such as ‘long or short’, ‘heavy or light’. They explore routine events and show an awareness of time and daily routines by responding to a routine signal from the teacher. They demonstrate an awareness of object permanence by searching for objects that have been hidden and participate in class activities that explore three-dimensional objects. They can match identical familiar three-dimensional shapes that are ‘the same’. Students respond to specific instructions relating to manipulating the movement and location of self and objects.

Statistics and Probability

Students participate in class activities that explore object, events and displaying information. They develop an awareness of chance by playing with materials or objects that involve cause and effect (actions that will happen) and playing games where the outcome is unpredictable. Students respond to a simple pictorial representation of their activities related to a short time-frame.

Level C (Towards Foundation)

Level C Description

In Level C, students demonstrate awareness in practical situations, connecting objects, numbers names and numerals from one to three, using ‘one more than’ and ‘one less than’.

They match like objects, describe differences between objects for given attribute, show familiarity with stages of time and events within a day using visual schedules, visually locate named objects in a familiar environment and identify some data relevant to a situation.

Level C Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Number and place value Elaborations
  1. Use number names in sequence to count in everyday situations, initially from one to five (VCMNA035)
    1. developing fluency in forward counting to five using words, sign or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in meaningful contexts, including everyday experiences and stories
    2. knowing that the forward sequence of counting words occurs in the same order, for example always communicating numbers in the same sequence, indicating when another person uses number names in the wrong sequence
    3. developing one-to-one correspondence by recognising that each object is counted, by indicating an object during counting situations, for example, indicating by pointing, activating a switch or eye gaze
  2. Know and match number name, numerals and quantities to three (VCMNA036)
    1. developing one-to-one matching of number word or its representation through sign or alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) to objects initially up to three
    2. recognising that numerals look different from non-numeral shapes
    3. using structured situations to count and match groups of objects to a numeral, initially up to 3
  3. Identify groups as being ‘one’, ‘more’ or ‘less’ (VCMNA037)
    1. indicating the larger of two groups when presented with groups of significantly different number sets, for example group of paints, lollies, tools, dots, blocks, counters
  4. Compare and order two collections according to their quantity (VCMNA038)
    1. comparing and ordering items using appropriate language of ‘more’, ‘less’, ‘same’
    2. using everyday situations of one-to-one correspondence to compare two collections of significantly different amounts
    3. using practical situations to indicate ‘more’, ‘less’ or ‘same’
  5. Demonstrate in practical situations, ‘adding one more to’ and ‘taking one away from’ in everyday situations (VCMNA039)
    1. using shared experiences with concrete materials to add one more to or take away one from a group of objects, and count to find a total
      • experiencing addition and subtraction in games
    2. communicating using language such as ‘more’ or ‘less’ to describe a change in a group using classroom resources and in practical situations
  6. Sharing materials in practical situations (VCMNA040)
    1. using one to one correspondence to distribute materials evenly
    2. exploring the distribution of a group of concrete materials into different numbers of groups
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Use direct comparison to sort coins or notes into groups (VCMNA041)
    1. identify and group notes or coins that are ‘the same’
    2. group coins based on a set criteria, for example size, colour, shape, coins, notes
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Pair identical objects from a small collection, and recognise simple repeated patterns (VCMNA042)
    1. copying a simple repeated pattern using one-to-one correspondence with objects
    2. copying a pattern associated with a familiar activity, for example repeating movement pattern
    3. using a single given attribute (for example, size, colour, texture, shape) to group objects
    4. matching, sorting and organising objects in practical situations
  2. Identify repeated routines and sequences in everyday events (VCMNA043)
    1. follow and assist to represent a sequence of steps
    2. follow a simple decision (algorithm) to solve a everyday problem
    3. participate in a cause and effects activities, games and events

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Compare two objects based on measurement attributes of length (VCMMG044)
    1. comparing and matching objects based on their having the ‘same’ or ‘different’ length, for example pencils, shoes or food items that are the same length
    2. recognising length in shared experiences by comparing objects directly and indicating differences between objects
    3. using measurement language such as long or short to communicate significant differences between objects
  2. Identify familiar events that occur at different stages of a day (morning, afternoon, evening, night) (VCMMG045)
    1. sorting images or symbols according to whether they occur during the day or the night
    2. using visual schedules to complete activities within an event and events within the day, and manage time throughout the day
    3. interpreting language, images and communication associated with day such as morning, afternoon, and night
    4. indicating an event as long or short
    5. recognising and responding to daily routines by selecting an image from a schedule to indicate an activity has finished or is about to begin
  3. Identify the familiar events within the day using a visual schedule (VCMMG046)
    1. identifying daily events through materials, visuals and objects provided
    2. identifying daily events with the assistance of visual or tactile schedules and timetables
    3. identifying events that may or may not happen today
Shape Elaborations
  1. Match familiar two dimensional shapes and three dimensional objects (VCMMG047)
    1. matching simple three dimensional shapes with similar attributes, for example, different-sized spheres
      • matching simple two dimensional shapes with similar attributes, for example, different-sized spheres
    2. recognising the relationship between familiar shapes using insert puzzles
Location and transformation Elaborations
  1. Locate familiar three-dimensional objects in the classroom when they are named (VCMMG048)
    1. interpreting everyday language of location by following simple directions and communication, for example, move or track an object, feel or follow a path
    2. locating familiar environments and objects, for example, classroom, hall, desk

Statistics and Probability

Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Identify data relevant to a given context (VCMSP049)
    1. assisting to collect information to answer a question, for example, what colours are the counters in the box
    2. following simple instructions to sort objects for a data display
  2. Follow simple instructions to sort objects into a simple data display (VCMSP050)
    1. making and collecting people’s choices and assisting to collate these in a data display based on set options
    2. match responses to establish groups to assist in collating data
  3. Identify the choices/responses of a data display (VCMSP051)
    1. indicate their eye colour from a display, indicate who is here or not here

Level C Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students connect number names and numerals with sets of up to five elements. They match individual objects with counting sequences up to and back from five. Students use concrete materials to solve problems that involve comparing, combining and separating sets. Students make ‘groups’, ‘lots’ and groups of ‘one’ and can indicate which collection has ‘more’ than the other. They can distribute objects to each person in a group until there are no objects left. Students order the first three elements of a set. Students can match one attribute of familiar objects.

Measurement and Geometry

Students explore measurement attributes in practical situations and use words to describe the characteristics of familiar objects. Students solve simple mathematical problems associated with longer and shorter lengths. They explore events and identify day and night events. They can identify events that may or may not happen today. Students respond to a simple pictorial representation of activities related to their whole day. They match objects that are the same and sort familiar objects, and an understanding of the concept of ‘inside and outside’ by following instructions. They demonstrate an understanding of location and spatial awareness by following simple instructions related to simple spatial concepts.

Statistics and Probability

Students participate in and contribute to the development of picture schedules, timetables and pictorial lists associated with familiar activities, such as listing the ingredients needed for a cooking session. They demonstrate an understanding of the concept of chance by participating in games of chance, and identifying events that may or may not happen today.

Level D (Towards Foundation)

Level D Description

In Level D, students actively use concrete models to represent number in various situations, and use number names when comparing, counting, ordering, adding to or taking away from sets of one to five objects.

They form the initial terms of basic patterns and identify and sequence regular daily events, make simple qualitative measurement comparisons, match objects with their pictorial representations, and name them.

Students follow instructions to place and find objects in various locations and they recognise that similar events or activities may have different outcomes at different times.

Level D Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Number and place value Elaborations
  1. Use number names in sequence to count in everyday situations, initially from one to ten (VCMNA052)
    1. developing fluency with forward counting by communicating number names while counting, initially to 10 and in meaningful contexts such as cooking, collecting equipment, stories and games
    2. understanding one-to-one correspondence by knowing that each object is counted only once, by tracking an object while counting in shared and structured counting experiences, for example moving objects once counted, counting objects left to right
  2. Recognise number name, numerals and quantities, initially up to five and beyond (VCMNA053)
    1. responding to key vocabulary and questions about ‘how many’
    2. using one-to-one matching of number words, sign or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) representation for objects to five
    3. matching numerals to the correct number of items initially to five using number games, software, cards and everyday situations
  3. Subitise regular arrangements of objects and arrays up to five (VCMNA054)
    1. understanding that some numbers are represented by a set pattern or array
  4. Compare, order and make comparisons between two collections, according to their quantity, using numbers initially to five (VCMNA055)
    1. comparing and ordering collections using the appropriate language and number name
    2. comparing and communicating about characteristics of groups, for example sequencing objects in a group from smallest to largest; indicating the larger/smaller group through gesture, verbally or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)
  5. Model practical situations involving ‘adding to’ or ‘taking away’ with collections of up to five objects (VCMNA056)
    1. using shared experiences with concrete materials to combine two groups of objects, and count to find a total
    2. counting on or back from a group using concrete materials, for example adding/ subtracting balls in a basket, pens in a container, tools in a tool box
    3. using a calculator or digital device to undertake simple addition and subtraction
    4. exploring the concept of adding one and taking away one
  6. Sharing material in practical situations so everyone has the same amount (VCMNA057)
    1. using one to one correspondence to share materials equally
    2. exploring stories and everyday situations which require sharing and the distributing of materials
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Using money in everyday financial situations and matching coins to two dimensional images (VCMNA058)
    1. matching coins to 2D images
    2. using money to pay for goods and services in the community
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Sort like objects based on a given classification, and identify and continue a simple repeated pattern with its next element (VCMNA059)
    1. continuing a simple repeated two-part pattern with given objects, movements or sounds, for example, red, blue, red (set the table with drinking cups), paper, glue (set up equipment), knife and fork (set a table using two implements)
    2. making patterns and collections based on objects being the same, different and alike
    3. examining and continuing a simple repeated pattern with given objects, movements or sounds, for example, continue a two-beaded pattern (red, blue, red, blue)
    4. sorting and grouping objects and communicating attributes such as texture, colour, size, category; for example, sort papers into two colours, sort cutlery into two groups
    5. recognising patterns in familiar environments
  2. Follow a sequence of steps (VCMNA060)
    1. using sequence steps to complete an activity
    2. representing a sequence of steps using visuals
    3. identify options and following steps through everyday situations and events
    4. participate in a variety of chance games and experiences

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Respond to contexts involving ‘heavier/lighter’ than and ‘holds more/less’ than (VCMMG061)
    1. using measurement language such as longer and shorter, or heavier and lighter, to communicate differences between objects
    2. using direct comparison to compare objects based on their length, mass or volume
  2. Identify and sequence regular events that occur during the school day and comment on their duration (short/long) (VCMMG062)
    1. creating and following a visual schedule based on the school day’s events
    2. ordering events based on duration, for example, ‘I can do more at lunch time than recess’
    3. comparing and labelling events as long, short, quick
    4. understanding the purpose of a clock and some of its features
    5. using timers and a clock to explore and compare time and duration of events
  3. Identify the days of the week in sequence (VCMMG063)
    1. using picture schedules to identify key events of a day and a week
    2. using everyday language ‘sometimes’, ‘always’ and never to indicate the likelihood of an event on a day or week
    3. using ‘morning routine’ to identify the days and what will occur during the day
    4. communicating the days of the week
Shape Elaborations
  1. Use direct comparison to sort three dimensional objects and two dimensional shapes (VCMMG064)
    1. sorting shapes that are the ‘same’ or ‘different’
    2. identifying, matching and sorting simple familiar two and three dimensional objects according to a single attribute
    3. identifying familiar shapes hidden in a picture
    4. investigating the inside and outside shape of an object
    5. understanding the relationship between shape and template, for example, insert puzzle, inserting a shape in a matching shaped hole
Location and transformation Elaborations
  1. Follow simple directional words to locate or move an object ‘on’, ‘in’ or ‘under’ (VCMMG065)
    1. following multiple positional directions during everyday situations, for example, chants, songs or rhymes with repeated actions, completing an art, cooking or drawing activity, locating a tool or completing a job
    2. developing consistency and fluency in communicating and interpreting directional and positional words
    3. using everyday location language to explain where an object is

Statistics and Probability

Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Answer simple yes/no questions about data that has been gathered in a given context (VCMSP066)
    1. following and constructing a data display such as routine schedule or daily timetable
    2. collecting and displaying data in a personally meaningful way
  2. Collect and display data in response to a question using materials (VCMSP067)
    1. representing responses to everyday situations with everyday objects into data displays
    2. collate responses to a question into groups
    3. match responses which are the same to assist in data collation
  3. Identify what the data display is representing and answer questions using yes/no responses (VCMSP068)
    1. identifying which response is the largest
    2. identify which response has the least

Level D Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students connect number names and numerals with sets of up to 10 elements. They match individual objects with counting sequences up to and back from 10. They recognise and point to numerals in and around the classroom, for example, numbers on a clock face. Students use concrete materials to solve problems that involve comparing, combining and separating sets. They can indicate when groups of less than 10 objects are the same or different in number and that two collections have the ‘same’ quantity by matching items one to one. They can find the first and last object in a sequence and place objects into sets to make ‘more’ and take objects from a group to make ‘less’. Students order the first five elements of a set. They sort objects and shapes based on a given attribute and create simple repeating patterns of two elements or more by copying a pattern.

Measurement and Geometry

Students explore measurement attributes in practical situations and identify and describe the basic characteristics of a range of objects. They can identify regular events within the school week. They can follow a class pictorial schedule and mark off each passing day on a calendar. Students demonstrate an understanding of two- and three-dimensional shapes by matching basic geometric objects to pictures of that object, identifying basic three-dimensional shapes in the classroom and sorting shapes into like groups. Students show an understanding of ‘location’ and spatial concepts by responding to instructions to position items.

Statistics and Probability

Students explore events and follow a simple picture schedule, and use these to answer simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ questions. They play a variety of chance games such as bingo or snakes and ladders and demonstrate an understanding that they will not always win.

Foundation Level

Foundation Level Description

In Foundation level, students play with objects and draw pictures to develop links between their immediate environment, everyday language and mathematical activity.

Students classify and sort objects into sets and form simple correspondences between them. They decide when two sets are of equal size, or one is smaller or bigger than another. They develop an understanding of the concepts of number...

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Foundation Level Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Number and place value Elaborations
  1. Establish understanding of the language and processes of counting by naming numbers in sequences, initially to and from 20, moving from  any starting point (VCMNA069)
    1. reading stories from other cultures featuring counting in sequence to assist students to recognise ways of counting in local languages and across cultures
    2. identifying the number words in sequence, backwards and forwards, and reasoning with the number sequences, establishing the language on which subsequent counting experiences can be built
    3. developing fluency with forwards and backwards counting in meaningful contexts, including stories and rhymes
    4. understanding that numbers are said in a particular order and there are patterns in the way we say them
  2. Connect number names, numerals and quantities, including zero, initially up to 10 and then beyond (VCMNA070)
    1. understanding that each object must be counted only once, that the arrangement of objects does not affect how many there are, and that the last number counted answers the ‘how many’ question
    2. using scenarios to help students recognise that other cultures count in a variety of ways, such as by placing one pebble in a bag to represent one object. For example to count the number of cattle
  3. Subitise small collections of objects (VCMNA071)
    1. using subitising as the basis for ordering and comparing collections of numbers
  4. Compare, order and make correspondences between collections, initially to 20, and explain reasoning (VCMNA072)
    1. comparing and ordering items of like and unlike characteristics using the words ‘more’, ‘less’, ‘same as’ and ‘not the same as’ and giving reasons for these answers
    2. understanding and using terms such as ‘first’ and ‘second’ to indicate ordinal position in a sequence.
    3. using objects which are personally and culturally relevant to students
  5. Represent practical situations to model addition and subtraction (VCMNA073)
    1. using a range of practical strategies for adding and subtracting small groups of numbers, such as visual displays or concrete materials
    2. using Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander methods of adding and subtracting, including spatial patterns and reasoning
  6. Represent practical situations to model sharing (VCMNA074)
    1. using a range of practical strategies for sharing small groups of numbers, such as visual displays or concrete materials
    2. using verbal action stories to model situations that involve sharing
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Represent simple, everyday financial situations involving money (VCMNA075)
    1. using toy money to pay for goods in play situations
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Sort and classify familiar objects and explain the basis for these classifications, and copy, continue and create patterns with objects and drawings (VCMNA076)
    1. observing natural patterns in the world around us
    2. creating and describing patterns using materials, sounds, movements or drawings
    3. extending patterns using materials and drawings to the right and to the left
    4. identifying which part of the pattern is being repeated (happening over and over again)
  2. Follow a short sequence of instructions (VCMNA077)
    1. carrying out a specified sequence of actions to move an object from one location to another
    2. playing a simple rule-based game moving a specified number of places according to the result on a die in a chance-based game

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Use direct and indirect comparisons to decide which is longer, heavier or holds more, and explain reasoning in everyday language (VCMMG078)
    1. comparing objects directly, by placing one object against another to determine which is longer or by pouring from one container into the other to see which one holds more
    2. using suitable language associated with measurement attributes, such as ‘tall’ and ‘taller’, ‘heavy’ and ‘heavier’, ‘holds more’ and ‘holds less’
  2. Compare and order the duration of events using the everyday language of time (VCMMG079)
    1. knowing and identifying the days of the week and linking specific days to familiar events
    2. sequencing familiar events in time order
  3. Connect days of the week to familiar events and actions (VCMMG080)
    1. choosing events and actions that make connections with students’ everyday family routines
Shape Elaborations
  1. Sort, describe and name familiar two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional objects in the environment (VCMMG081)
    1. sorting and describing squares, circles, triangles, rectangles, spheres and cubes
Location and transformation Elaborations
  1. Describe position and movement (VCMMG082)
    1. interpreting the everyday language of location and direction, such as ‘between’, ‘near’, ‘next to’, ‘forwards’, ‘towards’
    2. following and giving simple directions to guide a friend around an obstacle path and vice versa

Statistics and Probability

Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Answer yes/no questions to collect information (VCMSP083)
    1. posing questions about themselves and familiar objects and events, for example, 'Do you have any pets?'
    2. answering questions that have exactly two mutually exclusive possible responses
  2. Organise answers to yes/no questions into simple data displays using objects and drawings (VCMSP084)
    1. representing responses to questions using simple displays, including grouping students according to their answers
  3. Interpret simple data displays about yes/no questions (VCMSP085)
    1. using data displays to answer simple questions such as ‘how many students answered “yes” to having pets?’

Foundation Level Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students connect number names and numerals with sets of up to 20 elements, estimate the size of these sets, and use counting strategies to solve problems that involve comparing, combining and separating these sets. They match individual objects with counting sequences up to and back from 20. Students order the first 10 elements of a set. They represent, continue and create simple patterns.

Measurement and Geometry

Students identify measurement attributes in practical situations and compare lengths, masses and capacities of familiar objects. They order events, explain their duration, and match days of the week to familiar events. Students identify simple shapes in their environment and sort shapes by their common and distinctive features. They use simple statements and gestures to describe location.

Statistics and Probability

Students sort familiar categorical data into sets and use these to answer yes/no questions and make simple true/false statements about the data.

Level 1

Level 1 Description

In Level 1, students use mathematical symbols and language as well as materials and drawings in their mathematical explorations of daily life.

Students recognise, represent and order numbers to at least 100 using materials, diagrams, words, numerals and a number line, and apply this with respect to the value of Australian coins. They group and skip count by twos, fives and tens, and count to...

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Level 1 Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Number and place value Elaborations
  1. Develop confidence with number sequences to and from 100 by ones from any starting point. Skip count by twos, fives and tens starting from zero (VCMNA086)
    1. using the popular Korean counting game sam-yuk-gu for skip counting
    2. developing fluency with forwards and backwards counting in meaningful contexts such as circle games
  2. Recognise, model, read, write and order numbers to at least 100. Locate these numbers on a number line (VCMNA087)
    1. modelling numbers with a range of material and images
    2. identifying numbers that are represented on a number line and placing numbers on a prepared number line
  3. Count collections to 100 by partitioning numbers using place value (VCMNA088)
    1. understanding partitioning of numbers and the importance of grouping in tens
    2. understanding two-digit numbers as being comprised of tens and ones/units
  4. Represent and solve simple addition and subtraction problems using a range of strategies including counting on, partitioning and rearranging parts (VCMNA089)
    1. developing a range of mental strategies for addition and subtraction problems
  5. Represent practical situations that model sharing (VCMNA090)
    1. sharing a set of objects, such as a packet of sweets, equally between a small group of people using one-to-one correspondence
    2. recognising whether there is a remainder or not after sharing equally
Fractions and decimals Elaborations
  1. Recognise and describe one-half as one of two equal parts of a whole (VCMNA091)
    1. sharing a collection of readily available materials into two equal portions
    2. splitting an object into two equal pieces and describing how the pieces are equal
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Recognise, describe and order Australian coins according to their value (VCMNA092)
    1. showing that coins are different in other countries by comparing Asian coins to Australian coins
    2. understanding that the value of Australian coins is not related to size
    3. describing the features of coins that make it possible to identify them
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Investigate and describe number patterns formed by skip counting and patterns with objects (VCMNA093)
    1. using place-value patterns beyond the teens to generalise the number sequence and predict the next number
    2. investigating patterns in the number system, such as the occurrence of a particular digit in the numbers to 100
  2. Recognise the importance of repetition of a process in solving problems (VCMNA094)
    1. using one-to-one correspondence to determine which of two sets is larger, or if they are of equal size
    2. dividing a set of blocks in a simple ratio such as ‘2 for me’, ‘1 for you’

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Measure and compare the lengths, masses and capacities of pairs of objects using uniform informal units (VCMMG095)
    1. understanding that in order to compare objects, the unit of measurement must be the same size
    2. lifting to compare the mass of objects using words, for example, heavier, lighter, same
    3. measuring the capacity of containers using uniform material, for example cups or buckets
  2. Tell time to the half-hour (VCMMG096)
    1. reading time on analogue and digital clocks and observing the characteristics of half-hour times
  3. Describe duration using months, weeks, days and hours (VCMMG097)
    1. describing the duration of familiar situations such as ‘how long is it until we next come to school?’
Shape Elaborations
  1. Recognise and classify familiar two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional objects using obvious features (VCMMG098)
    1. focusing on geometric features and describing shapes and objects using everyday words such as 'corners', 'edges' and 'faces'
Location and transformation Elaborations
  1. Give and follow directions to familiar locations (VCMMG099)
    1. understanding that people need to give and follow directions to and from a place, and that this involves turns, direction and distance
    2. understanding the meaning and importance of words such as ‘clockwise’, ‘anticlockwise’, ‘forward’ and ‘under’ when giving and following directions
    3. interpreting and following directions around familiar locations

Statistics and Probability

Chance Elaborations
  1. Identify outcomes of familiar events involving chance and describe them using everyday language such as ‘will happen’, ‘won’t happen’ or ‘might happen’ (VCMSP100)
    1. justifying that some events are certain or impossible
Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Choose simple questions and gather responses (VCMSP101)
    1. determining which questions will gather appropriate responses for a simple investigation
  2. Represent data with objects and drawings where one object or drawing represents one data value. Describe the displays (VCMSP102)
    1. understanding one-to-one correspondence
    2. describing displays by identifying categories with the greatest or least number of objects

Level 1 Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students count to and from 100 and locate these numbers on a number line. They partition numbers using place value and carry out simple additions and subtractions, using counting strategies. Students recognise Australian coins according to their value. They identify representations of one half. Students describe number sequences resulting from skip counting by 2s, 5s and 10s. They continue simple patterns involving numbers and objects with and without the use of digital technology.

Measurement and Geometry

Students use informal units of measurement to order objects based on length, mass and capacity. They tell time to the half-hour and explain time durations. Students describe two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional objects. They use the language of distance and direction to move from place to place.

Statistics and Probability

Students describe data displays. They ask questions to collect data and draw simple data displays. Students classify outcomes of simple familiar events.

Level 2

Level 2 Description

In Level 2, students use grouping partitioning and re-arrangement to apply place value and extend the range of numbers they use and apply to thousands.

Students recognise, model and order numbers to at least 1000 and use a variety of strategies to count efficiently, including skip counting forwards and backwards by twos threes, fives and tens, with and without the use of technology. They explore...

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Level 2 Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Number and place value Elaborations
  1. Investigate number sequences, initially those increasing and decreasing by twos, threes, fives and ten from any starting point, then moving to other sequences (VCMNA103)
    1. developing fluency and confidence with numbers and calculations by saying number sequences
    2. recognising that the natural numbers with zero form an ordered infinite set {0, 1, 2, 3 … } with a first element but no last element
    3. recognising patterns in number sequences, such as adding 10 always results in the same final digit
  2. Recognise, model, represent and order numbers to at least 1000 (VCMNA104)
    1. recognising there are different ways of representing numbers and identifying patterns going beyond 100
    2. developing fluency with writing numbers in meaningful contexts
  3. Group, partition and rearrange collections up to 1000 in hundreds, tens and ones to facilitate more efficient counting (VCMNA105)
    1. using an abacus to model and represent numbers
    2. understanding three-digit numbers as comprised of hundreds, tens and ones/units
    3. demonstrating and using models such as linking blocks, sticks in bundles, place-value blocks and Aboriginal bead strings and explaining reasoning
  4. Explore the connection between addition and subtraction (VCMNA106)
    1. becoming fluent with partitioning numbers to understand the connection between addition and subtraction
    2. using counting on to identify the missing element in an additive problem
  5. Solve simple addition and subtraction problems using a range of efficient mental and written strategies (VCMNA107)
    1. becoming fluent with a range of mental strategies for addition and subtraction problems, such as commutativity for addition, building to 10, doubles, 10 facts and adding 10
    2. modelling and representing simple additive situations using materials such as 10 frames, 20 frames and empty number lines
  6. Recognise and represent multiplication as repeated addition, groups and arrays (VCMNA108)
    1. representing array problems with available materials and explaining reasoning
    2. visualising a group of objects as a unit and using this to calculate the number of objects in several identical groups
  7. Recognise and represent division as grouping into equal sets and solve simple problems using these representations (VCMNA109)
    1. dividing the class or a collection of objects into equal-sized groups
    2. identifying the difference between dividing a set of objects into three equal groups (partition) and dividing the same set of objects into groups of three (quotition)
Fractions and decimals Elaborations
  1. Recognise and interpret common uses of halves, quarters and eighths of shapes and collections (VCMNA110)
    1. recognising that sets of objects can be partitioned in different ways to demonstrate fractions
    2. relating the number of parts to the size of a fraction
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Count and order small collections of Australian coins and notes according to their value (VCMNA111)
    1. identifying equivalent values in collections of coins or notes, such as two five-cent coins having the same value as one 10-cent coin
    2. counting collections of coins or notes to make up a particular value, such as that shown on a price tag
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Describe patterns with numbers and identify missing elements (VCMNA112)
    1. describing a pattern created by skip counting and representing the pattern on a number line
    2. investigating features of number patterns resulting from adding twos, fives or 10s
  2. Solve problems by using number sentences for addition or subtraction (VCMNA113)
    1. representing a word problem as a number sentence
    2. writing a word problem to represent a number sentence
  3. Apply repetition in arithmetic operations, including multiplication as repeated addition and division as repeated subtraction (VCMNA114)
    1. using technology to construct a sequence of numbers based on constant addition or subtraction from a given starting value
    2. sharing a set of objects equally between a small number of groups

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Compare and order several shapes and objects based on length, area, volume and capacity using appropriate uniform informal units (VCMMG115)
    1. comparing lengths using finger length, hand span or a piece of string
    2. comparing areas using the palm of the hand or a stone
    3. comparing capacities using a range of containers
  2. Compare masses of objects using balance scales (VCMMG116)
    1. using balance scales to determine whether the mass of different objects is more, less or about the same
  3. Tell time to the quarter-hour, using the language of 'past' and 'to' (VCMMG117)
    1. describing the characteristics of quarter-past times on an analogue clock, and identifying that the small hand is pointing just past the number and the big hand is pointing to the three
  4. Name and order months and seasons (VCMMG118)
    1. investigating the seasons used by Aboriginal people, comparing them to those used in Western society and recognising the connection to weather patterns.
  5. Use a calendar to identify the date and determine the number of days in each month (VCMMG119)
    1. using calendars to locate specific information, such as finding a given date on a calendar and saying what day it is, and identifying personally or culturally specific days
Shape Elaborations
  1. Describe and draw two-dimensional shapes, with and without digital technologies (VCMMG120)
    1. identifying key features of squares, rectangles, triangles, kites, rhombuses and circles, such as straight lines or curved lines, and counting the edges and corners
  2. Describe the features of three-dimensional objects (VCMMG121)
    1. identifying geometric features such as the number of faces, corners or edges
Location and transformation Elaborations
  1. Interpret simple maps of familiar locations and identify the relative positions of key features (VCMMG122)
    1. understanding that we use representations of objects and their positions, such as on maps, to allow us to receive and give directions and to describe place
    2. constructing arrangements of objects from a set of directions
  2. Investigate the effect of one-step slides and flips with and without digital technologies (VCMMG123)
    1. understanding that objects can be moved but changing position does not alter an object’s size or features
  3. Identify and describe half and quarter turns (VCMMG124)
    1. predicting and reproducing a pattern based around half and quarter turns of a shape and sketching the next element in the pattern

Statistics and Probability

Chance Elaborations
  1. Identify practical activities and everyday events that involve chance. Describe outcomes as ‘likely’ or ‘unlikely’ and identify some events as ‘certain’ or ‘impossible’ (VCMSP125)
    1. classifying a list of everyday events according to how likely they are to happen, using the language of chance, and explaining reasoning
Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Identify a question of interest based on one categorical variable. Gather data relevant to the question (VCMSP126)
    1. determining the variety of birdlife in the playground and using a prepared table to record observations
  2. Collect, check and classify data (VCMSP127)
    1. recognising the usefulness of tally marks
    2. identifying categories of data and using them to sort data
  3. Create displays of data using lists, table and picture graphs and interpret them (VCMSP128)
    1. creating picture graphs to represent data using one-to-one correspondence
    2. comparing the usefulness of different data displays

Level 2 Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students count to and from, and order numbers up to 1000. They perform simple addition and subtraction calculations, using a range of strategies. They find the total value of simple collections of Australian notes and coins. Students represent multiplication and division by grouping into sets and divide collections and shapes into halves, quarters and eighths. They recognise increasing and decreasing number sequences involving 2s, 3s, 5s and 10s, identify the missing element in a number sequence, and use digital technology to produce sequences by constant addition.

Measurement and Geometry

Students order shapes and objects, using informal units for a range of measures. They tell time to the quarter hour and use a calendar to identify the date, days, weeks and months included in seasons and other events. Students draw two-dimensional shapes, specify their features and explain the effects of one-step transformations. They recognise the features of three-dimensional objects. They interpret simple maps of familiar locations.

Statistics and Probability

Students collect data from relevant questions to create lists, tables and picture graphs with and without the use of digital technology. They interpret data in context. Students use everyday language to describe outcomes of familiar events.

Level 3

Level 3 Description

In Level 3, students increasingly use mathematical terms and symbols to describe computations, measurements and characteristics of objects.

Students recognise, model and order numbers to at least 10 000 and place four digit numbers on a number line with regard for scale. They partition and re-arrange to facilitate calculations involving addition and subtraction. Students have facility with single...

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Level 3 Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Number and place value Elaborations
  1. Investigate the conditions required for a number to be odd or even and identify odd and even numbers (VCMNA129)
    1. identifying even numbers using skip counting by twos or by grouping even collections of objects in twos
    2. explaining why all numbers that end in the digits 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 are even and that numbers ending in 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 are odd
  2. Recognise, model, represent and order numbers to at least 10 000 (VCMNA130)
    1. placing four-digit numbers on a number line using an appropriate scale
    2. reproducing numbers in words using their numerical representations and vice versa
  3. Apply place value to partition, rearrange and regroup numbers to at least 10 000 to assist calculations and solve problems (VCMNA131)
    1. recognising that 10 000 equals 10 thousands, 100 hundreds, 1000 tens and 10 000 ones
    2. justifying choices about partitioning and regrouping numbers in terms of their usefulness for particular calculations
  4. Recognise and explain the connection between addition and subtraction (VCMNA132)
    1. demonstrating the connection between addition and subtraction using partitioning or by writing equivalent number sentences
    2. solving simple word problems involving addition or subtraction
  5. Recall addition facts for single-digit numbers and related subtraction facts to develop increasingly efficient mental strategies for computation (VCMNA133)
    1. recognising that certain single-digit number combinations always result in the same answer for addition and subtraction, and using this knowledge for addition and subtraction of larger numbers
    2. extending strategies for addition and subtraction such as 14 + 8 + 6 = 14 + 6 + 8 = 28 and 54 – 28 = 2 + 20 + 4
    3. combining knowledge of addition and subtraction facts and partitioning to aid computation. For example, 57 + 19 = 57 + 20 – 1
  6. Recall multiplication facts of two, three, five and ten and related division facts (VCMNA134)
    1. establishing multiplication facts using number sequences
    2. using strategies to recall the multiplication and related division facts for the twos, threes, fives and tens
  7. Represent and solve problems involving multiplication using efficient mental and written strategies and appropriate digital technologies (VCMNA135)
    1. writing simple word problems in numerical form and vice versa
    2. using technology to check the solution and reasonableness of the answer
Fractions and decimals Elaborations
  1. Model and represent unit fractions including 1/2, 1/4, 1/3, 1/5 and their multiples to a complete whole (VCMNA136)
    1. partitioning areas, lengths and collections to create halves, thirds, quarters and fifths, such as folding the same sized sheets of paper to illustrate different unit fractions and comparing the number of parts with their sizes
    2. locating unit fractions on a number line
    3. recognising that in English the term ‘one third’ is used (order: numerator, denominator) but in other languages, such as Japanese for example, this concept may be expressed as ‘three parts, one of them’ (order: denominator, numerator)
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Represent money values in multiple ways and count the change required for simple transactions to the nearest five cents (VCMNA137)
    1. recognising the relationship between dollars and cents, and that not all countries use these denominations and divisions. For example, the Japanese Yen
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Describe, continue, and create number patterns resulting from performing addition or subtraction (VCMNA138)
    1. identifying and writing the rules for number patterns
    2. describing a rule for a number pattern, then creating the pattern
  2. Use a function machine and the inverse machine as a model to apply mathematical rules to numbers or shapes (VCMNA139)
    1. finding and describing simple rules in words to solve problems
    2. using simple function machines to represent and apply a process or the inverse process, such as increase or decrease the value of a number by a specified amount

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Measure, order and compare objects using familiar metric units of length, area, mass and capacity (VCMMG140)
    1. recognising the importance of using common units of measurement
    2. recognising and using centimetres and metres, square centimetres, grams and kilograms, and millilitres and litres
    3. measuring the area of rectangles (including squares) by counting the number of square centimetres
  2. Tell time to the minute and investigate the relationship between units of time (VCMMG141)
    1. recognising there are 60 minutes in an hour and 60 seconds in a minute
Shape Elaborations
  1. Make models of three-dimensional objects and describe key features (VCMMG142)
    1. exploring the creation of three-dimensional objects, including prisms and pyramids, using origami
Location and transformation Elaborations
  1. Create and interpret simple grid maps to show position and pathways (VCMMG143)
    1. creating a map of the classroom or playground
  2. Identify symmetry in the environment (VCMMG144)
    1. identifying symmetry in Aboriginal rock carvings or art
    2. identifying symmetry in the natural and built environment
  3. Identify and describe slides and turns found in the natural and built environment (VCMMG145)
    1. recognising and representing slides and turn used in brickwork around the school
    2. recognising and representing slides and turn used in sporting activities
Geometric reasoning Elaborations
  1. Identify angles as measures of turn and compare angle sizes in everyday situations (VCMMG146)
    1. opening doors partially and fully and comparing the size of the angles created
    2. recognising that analogue clocks use the turning of arms to indicate time, and comparing the size of angles between the arms for familiar times

Statistics and Probability

Chance Elaborations
  1. Conduct chance experiments, identify and describe possible outcomes and recognise variation in results (VCMSP147)
    1. conducting repeated trials of chance experiments such as tossing a coin or drawing a ball from a bag and identifying the variations between trials
Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Identify questions or issues for categorical variables. Identify data sources and plan methods of data collection and recording (VCMSP148)
    1. refining questions and planning investigations that involve collecting data, and carrying out the investigation. For example narrowing the focus of a question such as ‘which is the most popular breakfast cereal?’ to ‘which is the most popular breakfast cereal among students in our class?’
  2. Collect data, organise into categories and create displays using lists, tables, picture graphs and simple column graphs, with and without the use of digital technologies (VCMSP149)
    1. exploring meaningful and increasingly efficient ways to record data, and representing and reporting the results of investigations
    2. collecting data to investigate features in the natural environment
  3. Interpret and compare data displays (VCMSP150)
    1. comparing various student-generated data representations and describing their similarities and differences

Level 3 Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students count and order numbers to and from 10 000. They recognise the connection between addition and subtraction, and solve problems using efficient strategies for multiplication with and without the use of digital technology. Students recall addition and multiplication facts for single-digit numbers. They represent money values in various ways and correctly count out change from financial transactions. Students model and represent unit fractions for halves, thirds, quarters, fifths and eighths, and multiples of these up to one. They classify numbers as either odd or even, continue number patterns involving addition or subtraction, and explore simple number sequences based on multiples.

Measurement and Geometry

Students use metric units for length, area, mass and capacity. They tell time to the nearest minute. Students identify symmetry in natural and constructed environments. They use angle size as a measure of turn in real situations and make models of three-dimensional objects. Students match positions on maps with given information and create simple maps.

Statistics and Probability

Students carry out simple data investigations for categorical variables. They interpret and compare data displays. Students conduct chance experiments, list possible outcomes and recognise variations in results.

Level 4

Level 4 Description

In Level 4, students extend the number system to simple decimal fractions, and broaden their use of measures and scales.

Students model, represent and order numbers to tens of thousands, and extend place value to tenths and hundredths. They investigate odd and even numbers and explore number patterns based on multiples of 3, 4, 6, 7, 8 and 9. Students develop facility with multiplication facts...

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Level 4 Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Number and place value Elaborations
  1. Investigate and use the properties of odd and even numbers (VCMNA151)
    1. using the four operations with pairs of odd or even numbers or one odd and one even number, then using the relationships established to check the accuracy of calculations
  2. Recognise, represent and order numbers to at least tens of thousands (VCMNA152)
    1. reproducing five-digit numbers in words using their numerical representations, and vice versa
  3. Apply place value to partition, rearrange and regroup numbers to at least tens of thousands to assist calculations and solve problems (VCMNA153)
    1. recognising and demonstrating that the place-value pattern is built on the operations of multiplication or division of tens
  4. Investigate number sequences involving multiples of 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9 (VCMNA154)
    1. recognising that number sequences can be extended indefinitely, and determining any patterns in the sequences
  5. Recall multiplication facts up to 10 × 10 and related division facts (VCMNA155)
    1. using known multiplication facts to calculate related division facts
    2. using strategies to recall the multiplication facts
    3. extending multiplication facts (for example 4 by 7 is 28 so 4 by 7 tens is 28 tens)
  6. Develop efficient mental and written strategies and use appropriate digital technologies for multiplication and for division where there is no remainder (VCMNA156)
    1. using known facts and strategies, such as commutativity, doubling and halving for multiplication, and connecting division to multiplication when there is no remainder
Fractions and decimals Elaborations
  1. Investigate equivalent fractions used in contexts (VCMNA157)
    1. exploring the relationship between families of fractions (halves, quarters and eighths or thirds and sixths) by folding a series of paper strips to construct a fraction wall
  2. Count by quarters, halves and thirds, including with mixed numerals. Locate and represent these fractions on a number line (VCMNA158)
    1. converting mixed numbers to improper fractions and vice versa
    2. investigating the use of fractions and sharing as a way of managing Country: for example taking no more than half the eggs from a nest to protect future bird populations
  3. Recognise that the place value system can be extended to tenths and hundredths. Make connections between fractions and decimal notation (VCMNA159)
    1. using division by 10 to extend the place-value system
    2. using knowledge of fractions to establish equivalences between fractions and decimal notation
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Solve problems involving purchases and the calculation of change to the nearest five cents with and without digital technologies (VCMNA160)
    1. recognising that not all countries use dollars and cents, eg India uses rupees.
    2. carrying out calculations in another currency as well as in dollars and cents, and identifying both as decimal systems
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Explore and describe number patterns resulting from performing multiplication (VCMNA161)
    1. identifying examples of number patterns in everyday life
  2. Solve word problems by using number sentences involving multiplication or division where there is no remainder (VCMNA162)
    1. representing a word problem as a number sentence
    2. writing a word problem using a given number sentence
  3. Use equivalent number sentences involving addition and subtraction to find unknown quantities (VCMNA163)
    1. writing number sentences to represent and answer questions such as: ‘When a number is added to 23 the answer is the same as 57 minus 19. What is the number?’
    2. using partitioning to find unknown quantities in number sentences
  4. Define a simple class of problems and solve them using an effective algorithm that involves a short sequence of steps and decisions (VCMNA164)
    1. constructing and applying an algorithm for multiplication of two-digit numbers
    2. partitioning and ordering a set of Australian coins by denomination

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Use scaled instruments to measure and compare lengths, masses, capacities and temperatures (VCMMG165)
    1. reading and interpreting, to the nearest graduation, the graduated scales on a range of measuring instruments
  2. Compare objects using familiar metric units of area and volume (VCMMG166)
    1. comparing areas using grid paper
    2. comparing volume using centicubes
    3. recognising that metric units are not the only units used throughout the world, for example measuring the area of floor space using tatami mats (Japan), using squares for room and house area (Australia)
  3. Convert between units of time (VCMMG167)
    1. identifying and using the correct operation for converting units of time
  4. Use am and pm notation and solve simple time problems (VCMMG168)
    1. calculating the time spent at school during a normal school day
    2. calculating the time required to travel between two locations
    3. determining arrival time given departure time
Shape Elaborations
  1. Compare the areas of regular and irregular shapes by informal means (VCMMG169)
    1. comparing areas using metric units, such as counting the number of square centimetres required to cover two areas by overlaying the areas with a grid of centimetre squares
  2. Compare and describe two dimensional shapes that result from combining and splitting common shapes, with and without the use of digital technologies (VCMMG170)
    1. identifying common two-dimensional shapes that are part of a composite shape by re-creating it from these shapes
    2. creating two-dimensional shapes from verbal or written instructions
  3. Explain and compare the geometric properties of two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional objects (VCMMG171)
    1. describing the similarities and differences between two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional objects
    2. recognising two-dimensional shapes that are the faces for three-dimensional objects such as prisms, pyramids and platonic solids (including tetrahedrons, cubes and dodecahedrons)
Location and transformation Elaborations
  1. Use simple scales, legends and directions to interpret information contained in basic maps (VCMMG172)
    1. identifying the scale used on maps of cities and rural areas in Australia and a city in Indonesia and describing the difference
    2. using directions to find features on a map
  2. Create symmetrical patterns, pictures and shapes with and without digital technologies (VCMMG173)
    1. using stimulus materials such as the motifs in Central Asian textiles, Tibetan artefacts, Indian lotus designs and symmetry in Yolngu or Central and Western Desert art
Geometric reasoning Elaborations
  1. Compare angles and classify them as equal to, greater than or less than a right angle (VCMMG174)
    1. creating angles and comparing them to a right angle using digital technologies

Statistics and Probability

Chance Elaborations
  1. Describe possible everyday events and order their chances of occurring (VCMSP175)
    1. using lists of events familiar to students and ordering them from ‘least likely’ to ‘most likely’ to occur
  2. Identify everyday events where one cannot happen if the other happens (VCMSP176)
    1. using examples such as weather, which cannot be dry and wet at the same time
  3. Identify events where the chance of one will not be affected by the occurrence of the other (VCMSP177)
    1. explaining that the probability of a new baby being either a boy or a girl does not depend on the sex of the previous baby
Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Select and trial methods for data collection, including survey questions and recording sheets (VCMSP178)
    1. comparing the effectiveness of different methods of collecting data
    2. choosing the most effective way to collect data for a given investigation
  2. Construct suitable data displays, with and without the use of digital technologies, from given or collected data. Include tables, column graphs and picture graphs where one picture can represent many data values (VCMSP179)
    1. exploring ways of presenting data and showing the results of investigations
    2. investigating data displays using many-to-one correspondence
  3. Evaluate the effectiveness of different displays in illustrating data features including variability (VCMSP180)
    1. interpreting data representations in the media and other forums in which symbols represent more than one data value
    2. suggesting questions that can be answered by a given data display and using the display to answer questions

Level 4 Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students recall multiplication facts to 10 x 10 and related division facts. They choose appropriate strategies for calculations involving multiplication and division, with and without the use of digital technology, and estimate answers accurately enough for the context. Students solve simple purchasing problems with and without the use of digital technology. They locate familiar fractions on a number line, recognise common equivalent fractions in familiar contexts and make connections between fractions and decimal notations up to two decimal places. Students identify unknown quantities in number sentences. They use the properties of odd and even numbers and describe number patterns resulting from multiplication. Students continue number sequences involving multiples of single-digit numbers and unit fractions, and locate them on a number line.

Measurement and Geometry

Students compare areas of regular and irregular shapes, using informal units. They solve problems involving time duration. Students use scaled instruments to measure length, angle, area, mass, capacity and temperature of shapes and objects. They convert between units of time. Students create symmetrical simple and composite shapes and patterns, with and without the use of digital technology. They classify angles in relation to a right angle. Students interpret information contained in maps.

Statistics and Probability

Students describe different methods for data collection and representation, and evaluate their effectiveness. They construct data displays from given or collected data, with and without the use of digital technology. Students list the probabilities of everyday events. They identify dependent and independent events.

Level 5

Level 5 Description

In Level 5, students extend decimal fractions to thousandths, and explore the ideas of factors, multiples and divisibility.

Students use estimation and rounding for all four operations, with and without the use of technology for calculation. They solve multiple digit problems involving addition, subtraction, multiplication and division by single digit divisors with remainders. Students represent...

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Level 5 Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Number and place value Elaborations
  1. Identify and describe factors and multiples of whole numbers and use them to solve problems (VCMNA181)
    1. exploring factors and multiples using number sequences
    2. using simple divisibility tests
  2. Use estimation and rounding to check the reasonableness of answers to calculations (VCMNA182)
    1. recognising the usefulness of estimation to check calculations
    2. applying mental strategies to estimate the result of calculations, such as estimating the cost of a supermarket trolley load
  3. Solve problems involving multiplication of large numbers by one- or two-digit numbers using efficient mental, written strategies and appropriate digital technologies (VCMNA183)
    1. using rounding and making estimates for computations
    2. exploring techniques for multiplication such as the area model, the Italian lattice method or the partitioning of numbers
    3. applying the distributive law and using arrays to model multiplication and explain calculation strategies
  4. Solve problems involving division by a one digit number, including those that result in a remainder (VCMNA184)
    1. using the fact that equivalent division calculations result if both numbers are divided by the same factor
    2. using rounding and making estimates for computations
    3. interpreting and representing the remainder in division calculations sensibly for the context
  5. Use efficient mental and written strategies and apply appropriate digital technologies to solve problems (VCMNA185)
    1. choosing between mental, written and a technology-based computation depending on the nature of the problems and the purpose for computation
    2. using technology to solve problems and check the reasonableness of answers
  6. Recognise, represent and order numbers to at least hundreds of thousands (VCMNA186)
    1. reproducing six-digit numbers in words using their numerical representations, and vice versa
Fractions and decimals Elaborations
  1. Compare and order common unit fractions and locate and represent them on a number line (VCMNA187)
    1. recognising the connection between the order of unit fractions and their denominators
  2. Investigate strategies to solve problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions with the same denominator (VCMNA188)
    1. modelling and solving addition and subtraction problems involving fractions by using jumps on a number line, or making diagrams of fractions as parts of shapes
  3. Recognise that the place value system can be extended beyond hundredths (VCMNA189)
    1. using knowledge of place value and division by 10 to extend the number system to thousandths and beyond
    2. recognising the equivalence of one thousandths and 0.001
  4. Compare, order and represent decimals (VCMNA190)
    1. locating decimals on a number line
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Create simple financial plans (VCMNA191)
    1. creating a simple budget for a class fundraising event
    2. identifying the GST component of invoices and receipts
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Describe, continue and create patterns with fractions, decimals and whole numbers resulting from addition and subtraction (VCMNA192)
    1. using the number line or diagrams to create patterns involving fractions or decimals
  2. Use equivalent number sentences involving multiplication and division to find unknown quantities (VCMNA193)
    1. using relevant problems to develop number sentences
  3. Follow a mathematical algorithm involving branching and repetition (iteration) (VCMNA194)
    1. simulating a simple random walk
    2. manipulating sets of numbers using a given rule, for example, if a number is even halve it; if a number is odd, subtract 1 then halve it

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Choose appropriate units of measurement for length, area, volume, capacity and mass (VCMMG195)
    1. investigating alternative measures of scale to demonstrate that these vary between countries and change over time. For example, temperature measurement in Australia, Indonesia, Japan and USA
    2. recognising that some units of measurement are better suited for some tasks than others, for example kilometres rather than metres to measure the distance between two towns
  2. Calculate the perimeter and area of rectangles and the volume and capacity of prisms using familiar metric units (VCMMG196)
    1. exploring efficient ways of calculating the perimeters of rectangles such as adding the length and width together and doubling the result
    2. exploring efficient ways of finding the areas of rectangles
    3. measuring volume and capacity by counting the number of cubes (cubic centimetres)
    4. exploring efficient ways of finding the volume and capacity of rectangular prisms and cubes
  3. Compare 12- and 24-hour time systems and convert between them (VCMMG197)
    1. investigating the ways time was and is measured in different Aboriginal Country, such as using tidal change
    2. using units hours, minutes and seconds
Shape Elaborations
  1. Connect three-dimensional objects with their nets and other two-dimensional representations (VCMMG198)
    1. identifying the shape and relative position of each face of a solid to determine the net of the solid, including that of prisms and pyramids
    2. representing two-dimensional shapes such as photographs, sketches and images created by digital technologies
Location and transformation Elaborations
  1. Use a grid reference system to describe locations. Describe routes using landmarks and directional language (VCMMG199)
    1. comparing aerial views of Country, desert paintings and maps with grid references
    2. creating a grid reference system for the classroom and using it to locate objects and describe routes from one object to another
  2. Describe translations, reflections and rotations of two-dimensional shapes. Identify line and rotational symmetries (VCMMG200)
    1. identifying and describing the line and rotational symmetry of a range of two-dimensional shapes, by manually cutting, folding and turning shapes and by using digital technologies
    2. identifying the effects of transformations by manually flipping, sliding and turning two-dimensional shapes and by using digital technologies
  3. Apply the enlargement transformation to familiar two dimensional shapes and explore the properties of the resulting image compared with the original (VCMMG201)
    1. using digital technologies to enlarge shapes
    2. using a grid system to enlarge a favourite image or cartoon
Geometric reasoning Elaborations
  1. Estimate, measure and compare angles using degrees. Construct angles using a protractor (VCMMG202)
    1. measuring and constructing angles using both 180° and 360° protractors
    2. recognising that angles have arms and a vertex, and that size is the amount of turn required for one arm to coincide with the other

Statistics and Probability

Chance Elaborations
  1. List outcomes of chance experiments involving equally likely outcomes and represent probabilities of those outcomes using fractions (VCMSP203)
    1. commenting on the likelihood of winning simple games of chance by considering the number of possible outcomes and the consequent chance of winning in simple games of chance such as jan-ken-pon (also known as rock-paper-scissors)
  2. Recognise that probabilities range from 0 to 1 (VCMSP204)
    1. investigating the probabilities of all outcomes for a simple chance experiment and verifying that their sum equals 1
Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Pose questions and collect categorical or numerical data by observation or survey (VCMSP205)
    1. posing questions about insect diversity in the playground, collecting data by taping a one-metre-square piece of paper to the playground and observing the type and number of insects on it over time
  2. Construct displays, including column graphs, dot plots and tables, appropriate for data type, with and without the use of digital technologies (VCMSP206)
    1. identifying the best methods of presenting data to illustrate the results of investigations and justifying the choice of representations
  3. Describe and interpret different data sets in context (VCMSP207)
    1. using and comparing data representations for different data sets to help decision making

Level 5 Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students solve simple problems involving the four operations using a range of strategies including digital technology. They estimate to check the reasonableness of answers and approximate answers by rounding. Students identify and describe factors and multiples. They explain plans for simple budgets. Students order decimals and unit fractions and locate them on a number line. Students add and subtract fractions with the same denominator. They find unknown quantities in number sentences and continue patterns by adding or subtracting fractions and decimals.

Measurement and Geometry

Students use appropriate units of measurement for length, area, volume, capacity and mass, and calculate perimeter and area of rectangles and volume, and capacity of rectangular prisms. They convert between 12 and 24-hour time. Students use a grid reference system to locate landmarks. They estimate angles, and use protractors and digital technology to construct and measure angles. Students connect three-dimensional objects with their two-dimensional representations. They describe transformations of two-dimensional shapes and identify line and rotational symmetry.

Statistics and Probability

Students pose questions to gather data and construct various displays appropriate for the data, with and without the use of digital technology. They compare and interpret different data sets. Students list outcomes of chance experiments with equally likely outcomes and assign probabilities as a number from 0 to 1.

Level 6

Level 6 Description

In Level 6, students work with prime, composite, square and triangular numbers and carry out mental, written and technology based computation to solve whole number problems involving all four operations. They explore everyday situations involving integers, and use a number line to represent them. They scale decimals by powers of ten, and add and subtract decimals with and without technology,...

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Level 6 Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Number and place value Elaborations
  1. Identify and describe properties of prime, composite, square and triangular numbers (VCMNA208)
    1. understanding that some numbers have special properties and that these properties can be used to solve problems
    2. representing composite numbers as a product of their prime factors and using this form to simplify calculations by cancelling common primes
    3. understanding that if a number is divisible by a composite number then it is also divisible by the prime factors of that number.
  2. Select and apply efficient mental and written strategies and appropriate digital technologies to solve problems involving all four operations with whole numbers and make estimates for these computations (VCMNA209)
    1. applying strategies already developed for solving problems involving small numbers to those involving large numbers
    2. applying a range of strategies to solve realistic problems and commenting on the efficiency of different strategies
    3. forming simple single digit estimates with consideration of order of magnitude of the result
  3. Investigate everyday situations that use integers. Locate and represent these numbers on a number line (VCMNA210)
    1. recognising that integers form an ordered infinite set {…-3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3…} with no first element or last element
    2. solving everyday additive problems using a number line
    3. investigating everyday situations that use integers, such as temperatures
    4. using number lines to position and order integers around zero
Fractions and decimals Elaborations
  1. Compare fractions with related denominators and locate and represent them on a number line (VCMNA211)
    1. demonstrating equivalence between fractions using drawings and models
  2. Solve problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions with the same or related denominators (VCMNA212)
    1. understanding the processes for adding and subtracting fractions with related denominators and fractions as an operator, in preparation for calculating with all fractions
    2. solving realistic additive (addition and subtraction) problems involving fractions to develop understanding of equivalent fractions and the use of fractions as operators
    3. modelling and solving additive problems involving fractions by using methods such as jumps on a number line, or by making diagrams of fractions as parts of shapes
  3. Find a simple fraction of a quantity where the result is a whole number, with and without digital technologies (VCMNA213)
    1. recognising that finding one third of a quantity is the same as dividing by 3
  4. Add and subtract decimals, with and without digital technologies, and use estimation and rounding to check the reasonableness of answers (VCMNA214)
    1. extending whole-number strategies to explore and develop meaningful written strategies for addition and subtraction of decimal numbers to thousandths
    2. exploring and practising efficient methods for solving problems requiring operations on decimals, to gain fluency with calculating with decimals and with recognising appropriate operations
  5. Multiply decimals by whole numbers and perform divisions by non-zero whole numbers where the results are terminating decimals, with and without digital technologies (VCMNA215)
    1. interpreting the results of calculations to provide an answer appropriate to the context
  6. Multiply and divide decimals by powers of 10 (VCMNA216)
    1. multiplying and dividing decimals by multiples of powers of 10
  7. Make connections between equivalent fractions, decimals and percentages (VCMNA217)
    1. connecting fractions, decimals and percentages as different representations of the same number, moving fluently between representations and choosing the appropriate one for the problem being solved
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Investigate and calculate percentage discounts of 10%, 25% and 50% on sale items, with and without digital technologies (VCMNA218)
    1. using authentic information to calculate prices on sale goods
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Continue and create sequences involving whole numbers, fractions and decimals. Describe the rule used to create the sequence (VCMNA219)
    1. identifying and generalising number patterns
    2. investigating additive and multiplicative patterns such as the number of tiles in a geometric pattern, or the number of dots or other shapes in successive repeats of a strip or border pattern looking for patterns in the way the numbers increase/decrease
  2. Explore the use of brackets and order of operations to write number sentences (VCMNA220)
    1. appreciating the need for rules to complete multiple operations within the same number sentence
  3. Design algorithms involving branching and iteration to solve specific classes of mathematical problems (VCMNA221)
    1. implementing algorithms such as the Euclidean division algorithm
    2. devising flowcharts to represent algorithms for a common processes such as adding two fractions

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Connect decimal representations to the metric system (VCMMG222)
    1. recognising the equivalence of measurements such as 1.25 metres and 125 centimetres
  2. Convert between common metric units of length, mass and capacity (VCMMG223)
    1. identifying and using the correct operations when converting units including millimetres, centimetres, metres, kilometres, milligrams, grams, kilograms, tonnes, millilitres, litres, kilolitres and megalitres
    2. recognising the significance of the prefixes in units of measurement
  3. Solve problems involving the comparison of lengths and areas using appropriate units (VCMMG224)
    1. recognising and investigating familiar objects using concrete materials and digital technologies
  4. Connect volume and capacity and their units of measurement (VCMMG225)
    1. recognising that 1ml is equivalent to 1cm3
  5. Interpret and use timetables (VCMMG226)
    1. planning a trip involving one or more modes of public transport
    2. developing a timetable of daily activities
  6. Measure, calculate and compare elapsed time (VCMMG227)
    1. recognising that some units of time are better suited for some tasks than others, for example, seconds rather than minutes to measure the duration of a short event
    2. using a stopwatch to measure and compare the duration of a series of events, for example, how long does it take to jump a skipping rope 100 times
    3. using the starting and finishing times to calculate and compare elapsed time, for example, the time taken to walk to school compared to the time taken to ride to school
Shape Elaborations
  1. Construct simple prisms and pyramids (VCMMG228)
    1. considering the history and significance of pyramids from a range of cultural perspectives including those structures found in China, Korea and Indonesia
    2. constructing prisms and pyramids from nets, and skeletal models
Location and transformation Elaborations
  1. Investigate the effect of combinations of transformations on simple and composite shapes, including creating tessellations, with and without the use of digital technologies (VCMMG229)
    1. understanding which attributes of a shape remain the same or change under the effects of transformations such as size, shape or orientation
    2. creating tessellations with simple shapes or simple composite shapes
  2. Introduce the Cartesian coordinate system using all four quadrants (VCMMG230)
    1. understanding that the Cartesian plane provides a graphical or visual way of describing location
Geometric reasoning Elaborations
  1. Investigate, with and without digital technologies, angles on a straight line, angles at a point and vertically opposite angles. Use results to find unknown angles (VCMMG231)
    1. identifying the size of a right angle as 90° and defining acute, obtuse, straight and reflex angles
    2. measuring, estimating and comparing angles in degrees and classifying angles according to their sizes
    3. investigating the use of rotation and symmetry in the diagrammatic representations of kinship relationships of Central and Western Desert people
    4. recognising and using the two alternate conventions for naming angles

Statistics and Probability

Chance Elaborations
  1. Describe probabilities using fractions, decimals and percentages (VCMSP232)
    1. investigating games of chance popular in different cultures
  2. Conduct chance experiments with both small and large numbers of trials using appropriate digital technologies (VCMSP233)
    1. conducting repeated trials of chance experiments, identifying the variation between trials and realising that the results tend to the prediction with larger numbers of trials
  3. Compare observed frequencies across experiments with expected frequencies (VCMSP234)
    1. predicting likely outcomes from a run of chance events and distinguishing these from surprising results
Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Construct, interpret and compare a range of data displays, including side-by-side column graphs for two categorical variables (VCMSP235)
    1. comparing different student-generated diagrams, tables and graphs, describing their similarities and differences and commenting on the usefulness of each representation for interpreting the data
    2. understanding that data can be represented in different ways, sometimes with one symbol representing more than one piece of data, and that it is important to read all information about a representation before making judgments
  2. Interpret secondary data presented in digital media and elsewhere (VCMSP236)
    1. investigating data representations in the media and discussing what they illustrate and the messages the people who created them might want to convey
    2. identifying potentially misleading data representations in the media, such as graphs with broken axes or non-linear scales, graphics not drawn to scale, data not related to the population about which the claims are made, and pie charts in which the whole pie does not represent the entire population about which the claims are made
  3. Pose and refine questions to collect categorical or numerical data by observation or survey (VCMSP237)
    1. narrowing or broadening a question to be posed for an observation or survey, for example, ‘which of these ice cream flavours – vanilla or chocolate?’ to ‘do you like ice cream, if yes what is your favourite flavour?’

Level 6 Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students recognise the properties of prime, composite, square and triangular numbers and determine sets of these numbers. They solve problems that involve all four operations with whole numbers and describe the use of integers in everyday contexts. Students locate fractions and integers on a number line and connect fractions, decimals and percentages as different representations of the same number. They solve problems involving the addition and subtraction of related fractions. Students calculate a simple fraction of a quantity and calculate common percentage discounts on sale items, with and without the use of digital technology. They make connections between the powers of 10 and the multiplication and division of decimals. Students add, subtract and multiply decimals and divide decimals where the result is rational. Students write number sentences using brackets and order of operations, and specify rules used to generate sequences involving whole numbers, fractions and decimals. They use ordered pairs of integers to represent coordinates of points and locate a point in any one of the four quadrants on the Cartesian plane.

Measurement and Geometry

Students relate decimals to the metric system and choose appropriate units of measurement to perform a calculation. They solve problems involving time, length and area, and make connections between capacity and volume. Students interpret a variety of everyday timetables. They solve problems using the properties of angles and investigate simple combinations of transformations in the plane, with and without the use of digital technology. Students construct simple prisms and pyramids.

Statistics and Probability

Students interpret and compare a variety of data displays, including displays for two categorical variables. They analyse and evaluate data from secondary sources. Students compare observed and expected frequencies of events, including those where outcomes of trials are generated with the use of digital technology. They specify, list and communicate probabilities of events using simple ratios, fractions, decimals and percentages.

Level 7

Level 7 Description

In Level 7, students work with powers of whole numbers, use index notation, represent numbers as products of powers of prime numbers, and investigate square roots of perfect squares. They use number properties to assist with calculation and order, and to add and subtract integers. Students find equivalent fractions, represent positive and negative fractions and mixed numbers on a number line...

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Level 7 Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Number and place value Elaborations
  1. Investigate index notation and represent whole numbers as products of powers of prime numbers (VCMNA238)
    1. defining and comparing prime and composite numbers and explaining the difference between them
    2. applying knowledge of factors to strategies for expressing whole numbers as products of powers of prime factors, such as repeated division by prime factors or creating factor trees
    3. solving problems involving lowest common multiples and greatest common divisors (highest common factors) for pairs of whole numbers by comparing their prime factorisation
  2. Investigate and use square roots of perfect square numbers (VCMNA239)
    1. investigating square numbers such as 25 and 36 and developing square-root notation
    2. investigating between which two whole numbers a square root lies
  3. Apply the associative, commutative and distributive laws to aid mental and written computation and make estimates for these computations (VCMNA240)
    1. simplifying calculations
    2. forming simple estimates for calculations involving multiple and/or combined operations
  4. Compare, order, add and subtract integers (VCMNA241)
    1. using a variety of models to represent, add and subtract integers
Real numbers Elaborations
  1. Compare fractions using equivalence. Locate and represent positive and negative fractions and mixed numbers on a number line (VCMNA242)
    1. exploring equivalence among families of fractions by using a fraction wall or a number line (for example by using a fraction wall to show that 2/3 is the same as 4/6 and 6/9)
  2. Solve problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions, including those with unrelated denominators (VCMNA243)
    1. exploring and developing efficient strategies to solve additive problems involving fractions (for example by using fraction walls or rectangular arrays with dimensions equal to the denominators)
  3. Multiply and divide fractions and decimals using efficient written strategies and digital technologies (VCMNA244)
    1. investigating multiplication of fractions and decimals, using strategies including patterning and multiplication as repeated addition, with both concrete materials and digital technologies, and identifying the processes for division as the inverse of multiplication
  4. Express one quantity as a fraction of another, with and without the use of digital technologies (VCMNA245)
    1. using examples for the quantities to be expressed and understanding the reasons for the calculations
  5. Round decimals to a specified number of decimal places (VCMNA246)
    1. using rounding to estimate the results of calculations with whole numbers and decimals, and understanding the conventions for rounding
  6. Connect fractions, decimals and percentages and carry out simple conversions (VCMNA247)
    1. justifying choices of written, mental or calculator strategies for solving specific problems including those involving large numbers
    2. understanding that quantities can be represented by different number types and calculated using various operations, and that choices need to be made about each
    3. calculating the percentage of the total local municipal area set aside for parkland, manufacturing, retail and residential dwellings to compare land use
  7. Find percentages of quantities and express one quantity as a percentage of another, with and without digital technologies. (VCMNA248)
    1. using authentic problems to express quantities as percentages of other amounts
  8. Recognise and solve problems involving simple ratios (VCMNA249)
    1. understanding that rate and ratio problems can be solved using fractions or percentages and choosing the most efficient form to solve a particular problem
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Investigate and calculate 'best buys', with and without digital technologies (VCMNA250)
    1. applying the unitary method to identify ‘best buys’ situations, such as comparing the cost per 100g
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Introduce the concept of variables as a way of representing numbers using letters (VCMNA251)
    1. understanding that arithmetic laws are powerful ways of describing and simplifying calculations and that using these laws leads to the generality of algebra
  2. Create algebraic expressions and evaluate them by substituting a given value for each variable (VCMNA252)
    1. using authentic formulas to perform substitutions
  3. Extend and apply the laws and properties of arithmetic to algebraic terms and expressions (VCMNA253)
    1. identifying order of operations in contextualised problems, preserving the order by inserting brackets in numerical expressions, then recognising how order is preserved by convention
    2. moving fluently between algebraic and word representations as descriptions of the same situation
  4. Design and implement mathematical algorithms using a simple general purpose programming language (VCMNA254)
    1. finding the sum of a set of consecutive numbers using a loop structure
    2. constructing geometric patterns such as a honeycomb, using dynamic geometry functionality
Linear and non-linear relationships Elaborations
  1. Given coordinates, plot points on the Cartesian plane, and find coordinates for a given point (VCMNA255)
    1. plotting points from a table of integer values and recognising simple patterns, such as points that lie on a straight line
  2. Solve simple linear equations (VCMNA256)
    1. solving equations using concrete materials, such as the balance model, and explain the need to do the same thing to each side of the equation using substitution to check solutions
    2. investigating a range of strategies to solve equations
  3. Investigate, interpret and analyse graphs from real life data, including consideration of domain and range (VCMNA257)
    1. using travel graphs to investigate and compare the distance travelled to and from school
    2. interpreting features of travel graphs such as the slope of lines and the meaning of horizontal lines
    3. using graphs of evaporation rates to explore water storage
    4. describing and comparing temperature during a day at different times of the year from the corresponding graphs

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Establish the formulas for areas of rectangles, triangles and parallelograms and use these in problem solving (VCMMG258)
    1. building on the understanding of the area of rectangles to develop formulas for the area of triangles
    2. establishing that the area of a triangle is half the area of an appropriate rectangle
    3. using area formulas for rectangles and triangles to solve problems involving areas of surfaces
  2. Calculate volumes of rectangular prisms (VCMMG259)
    1. investigating volumes of cubes and rectangular prisms and establishing and using the formula V = l × b × h
    2. understanding and using cubic units when interpreting and finding volumes of cubes and rectangular prisms
Shape Elaborations
  1. Draw different views of prisms and solids formed from combinations of prisms (VCMMG260)
    1. using aerial views of buildings and other 3-D structures to visualise the structure of the building or prism
Location and transformation Elaborations
  1. Describe translations, reflections in an axis, and rotations of multiples of 90° on the Cartesian plane using coordinates. Identify line and rotational symmetries (VCMMG261)
    1. describing patterns and investigating different ways to produce the same transformation such as using two successive reflections to provide the same result as a translation
    2. creating and re-creating patterns using combinations of reflections and rotations, using digital technologies
Geometric reasoning Elaborations
  1. Identify corresponding, alternate and co-interior angles when two straight lines are crossed by a transversal (VCMMG264)
    1. defining and classifying pairs of angles as complementary, supplementary, adjacent and vertically opposite
  2. Investigate conditions for two lines to be parallel and solve simple numerical problems using reasoning (VCMMG265)
    1. constructing parallel and perpendicular lines using their properties, a pair of compasses and a ruler, and dynamic geometry software
    2. defining and identifying the relationships between alternate, corresponding and co-interior angles for a pair of parallel lines cut by a transversal
  3. Demonstrate that the angle sum of a triangle is 180° and use this to find the angle sum of a quadrilateral (VCMMG263)
    1. using concrete materials and digital technologies to investigate the angle sum of a triangle and quadrilateral
  4. Classify triangles according to their side and angle properties and describe quadrilaterals (VCMMG262)
    1. identifying side and angle properties of scalene, isosceles, right-angled and obtuse-angled triangles
    2. describing squares, rectangles, rhombuses, parallelograms, kites and trapeziums

Statistics and Probability

Chance Elaborations
  1. Construct sample spaces for single-step experiments with equally likely outcomes (VCMSP266)
    1. discussing the meaning of probability terminology. For example, probability, sample space, favourable outcomes, trial, events and experiments
    2. distinguishing between equally likely outcomes and outcomes that are not equally likely
  2. Assign probabilities to the outcomes of events and determine probabilities for events (VCMSP267)
    1. expressing probabilities as decimals, fractions and percentages
Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Identify and investigate issues involving numerical data collected from primary and secondary sources (VCMSP268)
    1. obtaining secondary data from newspapers, the Internet and the Australian Bureau of Statistics
    2. investigating secondary data relating to the distribution and use of non-renewable resources around the world
  2. Construct and compare a range of data displays including stem-and-leaf plots and dot plots (VCMSP269)
    1. understanding that some data representations are more appropriate than others for particular data sets, and answering questions about those data sets
    2. using ordered stem-and-leaf plots to record and display numerical data collected in a class investigation, such as constructing a class plot of height in centimetres on a shared stem-and-leaf plot for which the stems 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17 have been produced
  3. Calculate mean, median, mode and range for sets of data. Interpret these statistics in the context of data (VCMSP270)
    1. understanding that summarising data by calculating measures of centre and spread can help make sense of the data
  4. Describe and interpret data displays using median, mean and range (VCMSP271)
    1. using mean and median to compare data sets and explaining how outliers may affect the comparison
    2. locating mean, median and range on graphs and connecting them to real life

Level 7 Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students solve problems involving the order, addition and subtraction of integers. They make the connections between whole numbers and index notation and the relationship between perfect squares and square roots. They solve problems involving all four operations with fractions, decimals, percentages and their equivalences, and express fractions in their simplest form. Students compare the cost of items to make financial decisions, with and without the use of digital technology. They make simple estimates to judge the reasonableness of results. Students use variables to represent arbitrary numbers and connect the laws and properties of number to algebra and substitute numbers into algebraic expressions. They assign ordered pairs to given points on the Cartesian plane and interpret and analyse graphs of relations from real data. Students develop simple linear models for situations, make predictions based on these models, solve related equations and check their solutions.

Measurement and Geometry

Students use formulas for the area and perimeter of rectangles. They classify triangles and quadrilaterals and represent transformations of these shapes on the Cartesian plane, with and without the use of digital technology. Students name the types of angles formed by transversals crossing parallel lines and solve simple numerical problems involving these lines and angles. They describe different views of three-dimensional objects, and use models, sketches and digital technology to represent these views. Students calculate volumes of rectangular prisms.

Statistics and Probability

Students identify issues involving the collection of discrete and continuous data from primary and secondary sources. They construct stem-and-leaf plots and dot-plots. Students identify or calculate mean, mode, median and range for data sets, using digital technology for larger data sets. They describe the relationship between the median and mean in data displays. Students determine the sample space for simple experiments with equally likely outcomes, and assign probabilities outcomes.

Level 8

Level 8 Description

In Level 8, students consolidate their proficiency with the four arithmetic operations, and combinations of these, for general computation involving natural numbers, integers and rational numbers, with and without the use of technology. They represent these numbers on the real number line. They extend the use of indices and develop the index laws using number examples. Students investigate the...

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Level 8 Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Number and place value Elaborations
  1. Use index notation with numbers to establish the index laws with positive integral indices and the zero index (VCMNA272)
    1. evaluating numbers expressed as powers of positive integers
  2. Carry out the four operations with rational numbers and integers, using efficient mental and written strategies and appropriate digital technologies and make estimates for these computations (VCMNA273)
    1. using patterns to assist in finding rules for the multiplication and division of integers
    2. using the number line to develop strategies for adding and subtracting rational numbers
    3. making an estimate for the total of a family weekly grocery bill with consideration of accuracy of the estimate, or for problems involving the circumference and area of a circle
Real numbers Elaborations
  1. Investigate terminating and recurring decimals (VCMNA274)
    1. recognising terminating, recurring and non-terminating decimals and choosing their appropriate representations
  2. Investigate the concept of irrational numbers, including π (VCMNA275)
    1. understanding that the real number system includes irrational numbers
  3. Solve problems involving the use of percentages, including percentage increases and decreases and percentage error, with and without digital technologies (VCMNA276)
    1. using percentages to solve problems, including those involving mark-ups, discounts, and GST
    2. using percentages to calculate population increases and decreases
    3. using percentage error to compare relative size of error in calculations involving a given or actual value, and an estimated or measured value
  4. Solve a range of problems involving rates and ratios, including distance-time problems for travel at a constant speed, with and without digital technologies (VCMNA277)
    1. understanding that rate and ratio problems can be solved using fractions or percentages and choosing the most efficient form to solve a particular problem
    2. calculating population growth rates in Australia and Asia and explaining their difference
    3. finding one of distance travelled, time taken or average speed given the other two quantities
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Solve problems involving profit and loss, with and without digital technologies (VCMNA278)
    1. expressing profit and loss as a percentage of cost or selling price, comparing the difference
    2. investigating the methods used in retail stores to express discounts
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Extend and apply the distributive law to the expansion of algebraic expressions (VCMNA279)
    1. applying the distributive law to the expansion of algebraic expressions using strategies such as the area model
  2. Factorise algebraic expressions by identifying numerical factors (VCMNA280)
    1. recognising the relationship between factorising and expanding
    2. identifying the greatest common divisor (highest common factor) of numeric and algebraic expressions and using a range of strategies to factorise algebraic expressions
  3. Simplify algebraic expressions involving the four operations (VCMNA281)
    1. understanding that the laws used with numbers can also be used with algebra
  4. Use algorithms and related testing procedures to identify and correct errors (VCMNA282)
    1. debugging search and sort programs
    2. testing a number for divisibility
Linear and non-linear relationships Elaborations
  1. Plot linear relationships on the Cartesian plane with and without the use of digital technologies (VCMNA283)
    1. completing a table of values, plotting the resulting points and determining whether the relationship is linear
    2. finding the rule for a linear relationship
  2. Solve linear equations using algebraic and graphical techniques. Verify solutions by substitution (VCMNA284)
    1. solving real life problems by using variables to represent unknowns
  3. Plot graphs of non-linear real life data with and without the use of digital technologies, and interpret and analyse these graphs (VCMNA285)
    1. investigating different combinations of length and width of a rectangle for a fixed area, and drawing the corresponding graph
    2. using graphs to analysing change in the value of a currency against another currency over a specified period

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Choose appropriate units of measurement for area and volume and convert from one unit to another (VCMMG286)
    1. choosing units for area including mm2, cm2, m2, hectares, km2, and units for volume including mm3, cm3, m3
    2. recognising that the conversion factors for area units are the squares of those for the corresponding linear units
    3. recognising that the conversion factors for volume units are the cubes of those for the corresponding linear units
  2. Find perimeters and areas of parallelograms, trapeziums, rhombuses and kites (VCMMG287)
    1. establishing and using formulas for areas such as trapeziums, rhombuses and kites
  3. Investigate the relationship between features of circles such as circumference, area, radius and diameter. Use formulas to solve problems involving determining radius, diameter, circumference and area from each other (VCMMG288)
    1. investigating the circumference and area of circles with materials or by measuring, to establish an understanding of formulas
    2. investigating the area of circles using a square grid or by rearranging a circle divided into sectors
    3. solving problems given one of radius, diameter, circumference or area of a circle, then the other quantities are determined from this
  4. Develop the formulas for volumes of rectangular and triangular prisms and prisms in general. Use formulas to solve problems involving volume (VCMMG289)
    1. investigating the relationship between volumes of rectangular and triangular prisms
  5. Solve problems involving duration, including using 12- and 24-hour time within a single time zone (VCMMG290)
    1. identifying regions in Australia and countries in Asia that are in the same time zone
Geometric reasoning Elaborations
  1. Define congruence of plane shapes using transformations and use transformations of congruent shapes to produce regular patterns in the plane including tessellations with and without the use of digital technology (VCMMG291)
    1. understanding the properties that determine congruence of triangles and recognising which transformations create congruent figures
    2. establishing that two figures are congruent if one shape lies exactly on top of the other after one or more transformations (translation, reflection, rotation), and recognising that the matching sides and the matching angles are equal
    3. exploring tiling patterns in art and design
  2. Develop the conditions for congruence of triangles (VCMMG292)
    1. investigating the minimal conditions needed for the unique construction of triangles, leading to the establishment of the conditions for congruence (SSS, SAS, ASA and RHS)
    2. solving problems using the properties of congruent figures
    3. constructing triangles using the conditions for congruence
  3. Establish properties of quadrilaterals using congruent triangles and angle properties, and solve related numerical problems using reasoning (VCMMG293)
    1. establishing the properties of squares, rectangles, parallelograms, rhombuses, trapeziums and kites
    2. identifying properties related to side lengths, parallel sides, angles, diagonals and symmetry

Statistics and Probability

Chance Elaborations
  1. Identify complementary events and use the sum of probabilities to solve problems (VCMSP294)
    1. identifying the complement of familiar events
    2. understanding that probabilities range between 0 to 1 and that calculating the probability of an event allows the probability of its complement to be found
  2. Describe events using language of 'at least', exclusive 'or' (A or B but not both), inclusive 'or' (A or B or both) and 'and' (VCMSP295)
    1. posing 'and', 'or' and 'not' probability questions about objects or people
  3. Represent events in two-way tables and Venn diagrams and solve related problems (VCMSP296)
    1. using Venn diagrams and two-way tables to calculate probabilities for events, satisfying 'and', 'or' and 'not' conditions
    2. understanding that representing data in Venn diagrams or two-way tables facilitates the calculation of probabilities
    3. collecting data to answer the questions using Venn diagrams or two-way tables
Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Distinguish between a population and a sample and investigate techniques for collecting data, including census, sampling and observation (VCMSP297)
    1. identifying situations where data can be collected by census and those where a sample is appropriate
    2. investigating the differences between convenience, judgemental and simple random sampling from a population
  2. Explore the practicalities and implications of obtaining data through sampling using a variety of investigative processes (VCMSP298)
    1. investigating the uses of random sampling to collect data
  3. Explore the variation of means and proportions of random samples drawn from the same population (VCMSP299)
    1. using sample properties to predict characteristics of the population
  4. Investigate the effect of individual data values including outliers, on the range, mean and median (VCMSP300)
    1. using displays of data to explore and investigate effects
    2. exploring the effect of outliers on the range for different sets of data by comparing its value with and without outliers included

Level 8 Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students use efficient mental and written strategies to make estimates and carry out the four operations with integers, and apply the index laws to whole numbers. They identify and describe rational and irrational numbers in context. Students estimate answers and solve everyday problems involving profit and loss rates, ratios and percentages, with and without the use of digital technology. They simplify a variety of algebraic expressions and connect expansion and factorisation of linear expressions. Students solve linear equations and graph linear relationships on the Cartesian plane.

Measurement and Geometry

Students convert between units of measurement for area and for volume. They find the perimeter and area of parallelograms, rhombuses and kites. Students name the features of circles, calculate circumference and area, and solve problems relating to the volume of prisms. They make sense of time duration in real applications, including the use of 24-hour time. Students identify conditions for the congruence of triangles and deduce the properties of quadrilaterals. They use tools, including digital technology, to construct congruent shapes.

Statistics and Probability

Students explain issues related to the collection of sample data and discuss the effect of outliers on means and medians of the data. They use various approaches, including the use of digital technology, to generate simple random samples from a population. Students model situations with Venn diagrams and two-way tables and explain the use of 'not', 'and' and 'or'. Students choose appropriate language to describe events and experiments. They determine complementary events and calculate the sum of probabilities.

Level 9

Level 9 Description

In Level 9, students develop familiarity with a broader range of non-linear and linear functions and relations, and related algebra and graphs.

Students apply index laws with integer indices to a range of numerical expressions and extend this to algebraic expressions involving numbers and pro-numerals. They use indices to express very large and very small numbers in scientific notation, and apply...

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Level 9 Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Real numbers Elaborations
  1. Solve problems involving direct proportion. Explore the relationship between graphs and equations corresponding to simple rate problems (VCMNA301)
    1. identifying direct proportion in real-life contexts
  2. Apply index laws to numerical expressions with integer indices (VCMNA302)
    1. simplifying and evaluating numerical expressions, using involving both positive and negative integer indices
  3. Express numbers in scientific notation (VCMNA303)
    1. representing extremely large and small numbers in scientific notation, and numbers expressed in scientific notation as whole numbers or decimals
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Solve problems involving simple interest (VCMNA304)
    1. understanding that financial decisions can be assisted by mathematical calculations
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Extend and apply the index laws to variables, using positive integer indices and the zero index (VCMNA305)
    1. understanding that index laws apply to variables as well as numbers
  2. Apply the distributive law to the expansion of algebraic expressions, including binomials, and collect like terms where appropriate (VCMNA306)
    1. understanding that the distributive law can be applied to algebraic expressions as well as numbers
    2. understanding the relationship between expansion and factorisation and identifying algebraic factors in algebraic expressions
  3. Apply set structures to solve real-world problems (VCMNA307)
    1. using a sort algorithm to determine the median of a set of numbers
    2. exploring variation in proportion and means of random samples, drawn from a population
Linear and non-linear relationships Elaborations
  1. Find the distance between two points located on a Cartesian plane using a range of strategies, including graphing software (VCMNA308)
    1. investigating graphical and algebraic techniques for finding distance between two points
    2. using Pythagoras' theorem to calculate distance between two points
  2. Find the midpoint and gradient of a line segment (interval) on the Cartesian plane using a range of strategies, including graphing software (VCMNA309)
    1. investigating graphical and algebraic techniques for finding midpoint and gradient
    2. recognising that the gradient of a line is the same as the gradient of any line segment on that line
  3. Sketch linear graphs using the coordinates of two points and solve linear equations (VCMNA310)
    1. determining linear rules from suitable diagrams, tables of values and graphs and describing them using both words and algebra
  4. Graph simple non-linear relations with and without the use of digital technologies and solve simple related equations (VCMNA311)
    1. graphing parabolas, and circles connecting x-intercepts of a graph to a related equation

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Calculate the areas of composite shapes (VCMMG312)
    1. understanding that partitioning composite shapes into rectangles and triangles is a strategy for solving problems involving area
  2. Calculate the surface area and volume of cylinders and solve related problems (VCMMG313)
    1. analysing nets of cylinders to establish formulas for surface area
    2. connecting the volume and capacity of a cylinder to solve authentic problems
  3. Solve problems involving the surface area and volume of right prisms (VCMMG314)
    1. solving practical problems involving surface area and volume of right prisms
  4. Investigate very small and very large time scales and intervals (VCMMG315)
    1. investigating the usefulness of scientific notation in representing very large and very small numbers
Geometric reasoning Elaborations
  1. Use the enlargement transformation to explain similarity and develop the conditions for triangles to be similar (VCMMG316)
    1. establishing the conditions for similarity of two triangles and comparing this to the conditions for congruence
    2. using the properties of similarity and ratio, and correct mathematical notation and language, to solve problems involving enlargement. For example, scale diagrams
    3. using the enlargement transformation to establish similarityunderstanding that similarity and congruence help describe relationships between geometrical shapes and are important elements of reasoning and proof
  2. Solve problems using ratio and scale factors in similar figures (VCMMG317)
    1. establishing the relationship between areas of similar figures and the ratio of corresponding sides (scale factor)
Pythagoras and trigonometry Elaborations
  1. Investigate Pythagoras’ Theorem and its application to solving simple problems involving right angled triangles (VCMMG318)
    1. understanding that Pythagoras' Theorem is a useful tool in determining unknown lengths in right-angled triangles and has widespread applications
    2. recognising that right-angled triangle calculations may generate results that can be integers, fractions or irrational numbers
  2. Use similarity to investigate the constancy of the sine, cosine and tangent ratios for a given angle in right-angled triangles (VCMMG319)
    1. developing understanding of the relationship between the corresponding sides of similar right-angled triangles
  3. Apply trigonometry to solve right-angled triangle problems (VCMMG320)
    1. understanding the terms 'adjacent' and 'opposite' sides in a right-angled triangle
    2. selecting and accurately using the correct trigonometric ratio to find unknown sides (adjacent, opposite and hypotenuse) and angles in right-angled triangles

Statistics and Probability

Chance Elaborations
  1. List all outcomes for two-step chance experiments, both with and without replacement using tree diagrams or arrays. Assign probabilities to outcomes and determine probabilities for events (VCMSP321)
    1. conducting two-step chance experiments
    2. using systematic methods to list outcomes of experiments and to list outcomes favourable to an event
    3. comparing experiments which differ only by being undertaken with replacement or without replacement
  2. Calculate relative frequencies from given or collected data to estimate probabilities of events involving 'and' or 'or' (VCMSP322)
    1. using Venn diagrams or two-way tables to calculate relative frequencies of events involving ‘and’, ‘or’ questions
    2. using relative frequencies to find an estimate of probabilities of ‘and’, ‘or’ events
  3. Investigate reports of surveys in digital media and elsewhere for information on how data were obtained to estimate population means and medians (VCMSP323)
    1. investigating a range of data and its sources. For example, the age of residents in Australia, Cambodia and Tonga, or the number of subjects studied at school by 14-year-old students in Australia, Japan and Timor-Leste
Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Identify everyday questions and issues involving at least one numerical and at least one categorical variable, and collect data directly from secondary sources (VCMSP324)
    1. comparing the annual rainfall in various parts of Australia, Pakistan, New Guinea and Malaysia
  2. Construct back-to-back stem-and-leaf plots and histograms and describe data, using terms including ‘skewed’, ‘symmetric’ and ‘bi modal’ (VCMSP325)
    1. using stem-and-leaf plots to compare two like sets of data such as the heights of girls and the heights of boys in a class
    2. describing the shape of the distribution of data using terms such as ‘positive skew’, ‘negative skew’ and 'symmetric' and 'bi-modal'
  3. Compare data displays using mean, median and range to describe and interpret numerical data sets in terms of location (centre) and spread (VCMSP326)
    1. comparing means, medians and ranges of two sets of numerical data which have been displayed using histograms, dot plots, or stem and leaf plots

Level 9 Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students apply the index laws using integer indices to variables and numbers, express numbers in scientific notation, solve problems involving very small and very large numbers, and check the order of magnitude of calculations. They solve problems involving simple interest. Students use the distributive law to expand algebraic expressions, including binomial expressions, and simplify a range of algebraic expressions. They find the distance between two points on the Cartesian plane and the gradient and midpoint of a line segment using a range of strategies including the use of digital technology. Students sketch and draw linear and non-linear relations, solve simple related equations and explain the relationship between the graphical and symbolic forms, with and without the use of digital technology.

Measurement and Geometry

Students solve measurement problems involving perimeter and area of composite shapes, surface area and volume of rectangular prisms and cylinders, with and without the use of digital technology. They relate three-dimensional objects to two-dimensional representations. Students explain similarity of triangles, interpret ratios and scale factors in similar figures, and apply Pythagoras's theorem and trigonometry to solve problems involving angles and lengths in right-angled triangles.

Statistics and Probability

Students compare techniques for collecting data from primary and secondary sources, and identify questions and issues involving different data types. They construct histograms and back-to-back stem-and-leaf plots with and without the use of digital technology. Students identify mean and median in skewed, symmetric and bi-modal displays and use these to describe and interpret the distribution of the data. They calculate relative frequencies to estimate probabilities. Students list outcomes for two-step experiments and assign probabilities for those outcomes and related events.

Level 10

Level 10 Description

In Level 10, students extend their use of mathematical models to a wide range of familiar and unfamiliar contexts, involving the use of all types of real numbers. They recognise the role of logical argument and proof in establishing mathematical propositions. Students apply mental, written or technology-assisted forms of computation as appropriate, and routinely use estimation to validate or...

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Level 10 Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Real numbers Elaborations
  1. Solve simple problems involving inverse proportion (VCMNA327)
    1. identifying inverse proportion in real life contexts such as exchange rates
    2. modelling problems involving inverse proportion and solving related equations
Money and financial mathematics Elaborations
  1. Connect the compound interest formula to repeated applications of simple interest using appropriate digital technologies (VCMNA328)
    1. working with authentic information, data and interest rates to calculate compound interest and solve related problems
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Factorise algebraic expressions by taking out a common algebraic factor (VCMNA329)
    1. using the distributive law and the index laws to factorise algebraic expressions
    2. understanding the relationship between factorisation and expansion
  2. Simplify algebraic products and quotients using index laws (VCMNA330)
    1. applying knowledge of index laws to algebraic terms, and simplifying algebraic expressions using both positive and negative integral indices
  3. Apply the four operations to simple algebraic fractions with numerical denominators (VCMNA331)
    1. expressing the sum and difference of algebraic fractions with a common denominator
    2. using the index laws to simplify products and quotients of algebraic fractions
  4. Expand binomial products and factorise monic quadratic expressions using a variety of strategies (VCMNA332)
    1. exploring the method of completing the square to factorise quadratic expressions and solve quadratic equations
    2. identifying and using common factors, including binomial expressions, to factorise algebraic expressions using the technique of grouping in pairs
    3. using the identities for perfect squares and the difference of squares to factorise quadratic expressions
  5. Substitute values into formulas to determine an unknown and re-arrange formulas to solve for a particular term (VCMNA333)
    1. solving simple equations arising from formulas
    2. re-arranging expressions to make a specified variable the subject such as calculating the radius of a sphere to produce a given volume
  6. Implement algorithms using data structures in a general-purpose programming language (VCMNA334)
    1. using two-dimensional arrays such as matrices to represent and implement sequences of transformations of sets of points in the plane
    2. using pointers in algorithms
Linear and non-linear relationships Elaborations
  1. Solve problems involving linear equations, including those derived from formulas (VCMNA335)
    1. representing word problems with simple linear equations and solving them to answer questions
  2. Solve linear inequalities and graph their solutions on a number line (VCMNA336)
    1. representing word problems with simple linear inequalities and solving them to answer questions
  3. Solve simultaneous linear equations, using algebraic and graphical techniques including using digital technology (VCMNA337)
    1. associating the solution of simultaneous equations with the coordinates of the intersection of their corresponding graphs
  4. Solve problems involving gradients of parallel and perpendicular lines (VCMNA338)
    1. solving problems using the fact that parallel lines have the same gradient and conversely that if two lines have the same gradient then they are parallel
    2. solving problems using the fact that the product of the gradients of perpendicular lines is –1 and conversely that if the product of the gradients of two lines is –1 then they are perpendicular
  5. Explore the connection between algebraic and graphical representations of relations such as simple quadratic, reciprocal, circle and exponential, using digital technology as appropriate (VCMNA339)
    1. sketching graphs of parabolas, and circles
    2. applying translations, reflections and stretches to parabolas and circles
    3. sketching the graphs of exponential functions using transformations
    4. plotting graphs of families of relations where the product of two variable is equal to a fixed constant
  6. Solve linear equations involving simple algebraic fractions (VCMNA340)
    1. solving a wide range of linear equations, including those involving one or two simple algebraic fractions, and checking solutions by substitution
    2. representing word problems, including those involving fractions, as equations and solving them to answer the question
  7. Solve simple quadratic equations using a range of strategies (VCMNA341)
    1. using a variety of techniques to solve quadratic equations, including grouping, completing the square, the quadratic formula, and choosing two integers with the required product and sum
  8. Solve equations using systematic guess-check-and-refine with digital technology (VCMNA342)
    1. refining intervals on graphs and/or in tables of values to determine with increasing accuracy when the values of two functions are approximately equal

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Solve problems involving surface area and volume for a range of prisms, cylinders and composite solids (VCMMG343)
    1. investigating and determining the volumes and surface areas of composite solids by considering the individual solids from which they are constructed
Geometric reasoning Elaborations
  1. Formulate proofs involving congruent triangles and angle properties (VCMMG344)
    1. applying an understanding of relationships to deduce properties of geometric figures (for example the base angles of an isosceles triangle are equal)
  2. Apply logical reasoning, including the use of congruence and similarity, to proofs and numerical exercises involving plane shapes (VCMMG345)
    1. distinguishing between a practical demonstration and a proof (for example demonstrating triangles are congruent by placing them on top of each other, as compared to using congruence tests to establish that triangles are congruent)
    2. performing a sequence of steps to determine an unknown angle giving a justification in moving from one step to the next.
    3. communicating a proof using a sequence of logically connected statements
Pythagoras and trigonometry Elaborations
  1. Solve right-angled triangle problems including those involving direction and angles of elevation and depression (VCMMG346)
    1. applying Pythagoras's Theorem and trigonometry to problems in surveying and design

Statistics and Probability

Chance Elaborations
  1. Describe the results of two- and three-step chance experiments, both with and without replacements, assign probabilities to outcomes and determine probabilities of events. Investigate the concept of independence (VCMSP347)
    1. recognising that an event can be dependent on another event and that this will affect the way its probability is calculated
  2. Use the language of ‘if ....then, ‘given’, ‘of’, ‘knowing that’ to investigate conditional statements and identify common mistakes in interpreting such language (VCMSP348)
    1. using two-way tables and Venn diagrams to understand conditional statements
    2. using arrays and tree diagrams to determine probabilities
Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Determine quartiles and interquartile range and investigate the effect of individual data values, including outliers on the interquartile range (VCMSP349)
    1. finding the five-number summary (minimum and maximum values, median and upper and lower quartiles) and using its graphical representation, the box plot, as tools for both numerically and visually comparing the centre and spread of data sets
    2. exploring the effect of varying data values, including outliers, on the interquartile range for different sets of data
  2. Construct and interpret box plots and use them to compare data sets (VCMSP350)
    1. understanding that box plots are an efficient and common way of representing and summarising data and can facilitate comparisons between data sets
    2. using parallel box plots to compare data about the age distribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with that of the Australian population as a whole
  3. Compare shapes of box plots to corresponding histograms and dot plots and discuss the distribution of data (VCMSP351)
    1. investigating data in different ways to make comparisons and draw conclusions
    2. using a dot plot, box-plot or histogram to construct a cumulative frequency distribution for a set of data
  4. Use scatter plots to investigate and comment on relationships between two numerical variables (VCMSP352)
    1. using authentic data to construct scatter plots, make comparisons and draw conclusions
  5. Investigate and describe bivariate numerical data, including where the independent variable is time (VCMSP353)
    1. investigating biodiversity changes in Australia since European occupation
    2. constructing and interpreting data displays representing bivariate data over time
    3. constructing scatter-plots for two numerical variables and investigate trends such as water storage levels over time or weight and height distributions
  6. Evaluate statistical reports in the media and other places by linking claims to displays, statistics and representative data (VCMSP354)
    1. investigating the use of statistics in reports regarding the growth of Australia's trade with other countries of the Asia region
    2. evaluating statistical reports comparing the life expectancy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with that of the Australian population as a whole

Level 10 Achievement Standard

Number and Algebra

Students recognise the connection between simple and compound interest. They solve problems involving linear equations and inequalities, quadratic equations and pairs of simultaneous linear equations and related graphs, with and without the use of digital technology. Students substitute into formulas, find unknown values, manipulate linear algebraic expressions, expand binomial expressions and factorise monic and simple non-monic quadratic expressions, with and without the use of digital technology. They represent linear, quadratic and exponential functions numerically, graphically and algebraically, and use them to model situations and solve practical problems.

Measurement and Geometry

Students solve and explain surface area and volume problems relating to composite solids. They use parallel and perpendicular lines, angle and triangle properties, similarity, trigonometry and congruence to solve practical problems and develop proofs involving lengths, angles and areas in plane shapes. They use digital technology to construct and manipulate geometric shapes and objects, and explore symmetry and pattern in two dimensions.

Statistics and Probability

Students compare univariate data sets by referring to summary statistics and the shape of their displays. They describe bivariate data where the independent variable is time and use scatter-plots generated by digital technology to investigate relationships between two continuous variables. Students evaluate the use of statistics in the media. They list outcomes for multi-step chance experiments involving independent and dependent events, and assign probabilities for these experiments.

Level 10A

Level 10A Description

Level 10A provides optional, additional content for students to be extended in their mathematical studies.

Students could extend work in number and algebra to investigate the structure and properties of number systems, with further analysis of order relations and inequalities. They could extend the study of trigonometry to include an introduction to circular functions and equations, or extend...

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Level 10A Content Descriptions

Number and Algebra

Real numbers Elaborations
  1. Define rational and irrational numbers and perform operations with surds and fractional indices (VCMNA355)
    1. understanding that the real number system includes irrational numbers
    2. extending the index laws to rational number indices
    3. performing the four operations with surds
  2. Use the definition of a logarithm to establish and apply the laws of logarithms and investigate logarithmic scales in measurement (VCMNA356)
    1. investigating the relationship between exponential and logarithmic expressions
    2. simplifying expressions using the logarithm laws
    3. investigating the use of logarithmic scales to represent very small and very large quantities
Patterns and algebra Elaborations
  1. Investigate the concept of a polynomial and apply the factor and remainder theorems to solve problems (VCMNA357)
    1. investigating the relationship between algebraic long division and the factor and remainder theorems
  2. Devise and use algorithms and simulations to solve mathematical problems (VCMNA358)
    1. applying a systematic guess-check-and-refine algorithm to identify an approximate value for the root of an equation in an interval
    2. developing simulations for counter-intuitive problems in probability such as the Monty Hall problem or derangements
Linear and non-linear relationships Elaborations
  1. Describe, interpret and sketch parabolas, hyperbolas, circles and exponential functions and their transformations (VCMNA359)
    1. applying transformations, including translations, reflections in the axes and stretches to help graph parabolas, rectangular hyperbolas, circles and exponential functions
  2. Solve simple exponential equations (VCMNA360)
    1. investigating exponential equations derived from authentic mathematical models based on population growth
  3. Apply understanding of polynomials to sketch a range of curves and describe the features of these curves from their equation (VCMNA361)
    1. investigating the features of graphs of polynomials including axes intercepts and the effect of repeated factors
  4. Factorise monic and non-monic quadratic expressions and solve a wide range of quadratic equations derived from a variety of contexts (VCMNA362)
    1. writing quadratic equations that represent practical problems
  5. Use function notation to describe the relationship between dependent and independent variables in modelling contexts (VCMNA363)
    1. identify independent and dependent variables in modelling contexts and represent the relation between them using tables, graphs and rules
    2. using technology to draw graphs of functions defined using function notation with consideration of domain and range
  6. Solve simultaneous equations using systematic guess-check-and-refine with digital technology (VCMNA364)
    1. using graphs to determine a convergent set of intervals which contain a point of intersection of the graphs of two functions
    2. using cobweb diagram to solve simultaneous equations numerically

Measurement and Geometry

Using units of measurement Elaborations
  1. Solve problems involving surface area and volume of right pyramids, right cones, spheres and related composite solids (VCMMG365)
    1. using formulas to solve problems
    2. using authentic situations to apply knowledge and understanding of surface area and volume
Geometric reasoning Elaborations
  1. Prove and apply angle and chord properties of circles (VCMMG366)
    1. performing a sequence of steps to determine an unknown angle or length in a diagram involving a circle, or circles, giving a justification in moving from one step to the next
    2. communicating a proof using a logical sequence of statements
    3. proving results involving chords of circles
Pythagoras and trigonometry Elaborations
  1. Establish the sine, cosine and area rules for any triangle and solve related problems (VCMMG367)
    1. applying knowledge of sine, cosine and area rules to authentic problems such as those involving surveying and design
  2. Use the unit circle to define trigonometric functions as functions of a real variable, and graph them with and without the use of digital technologies (VCMMG368)
    1. establishing the symmetrical properties of trigonometric functions
    2. investigating angles of any magnitude
    3. understanding that trigonometric functions are periodic and that this can be used to describe motion
    4. identifying points on the unit circle via arc lengths in radians, which correspond to specified values of the circular functions sine, cosine and tangent
  3. Solve simple trigonometric equations (VCMMG369)
    1. using periodicity and symmetry to solve equations
  4. Apply Pythagoras’ theorem and trigonometry to solving three-dimensional problems in right-angled triangles (VCMMG370)
    1. investigating the applications of Pythagoras's theorem in authentic problems

Statistics and Probability

Chance Elaborations
  1. Investigate reports of studies in digital media and elsewhere for information on their planning and implementation (VCMSP371)
    1. evaluating the appropriateness of sampling methods in reports where statements about a population are based on a sample
    2. evaluating whether graphs in a report could mislead, and whether graphs and numerical information support the claims
Data representation and interpretation Elaborations
  1. Calculate and interpret the mean and standard deviation of data and use these to compare data sets. Investigate the effect of individual data values including outliers, on the standard deviation (VCMSP372)
    1. using the standard deviation to describe the spread of a set of data
    2. using the mean and standard deviation to compare numerical data sets
    3. constructing distributions for the mean and standard deviation of simple random samples from a population
  2. Use digital technology to investigate bivariate numerical data sets. Where appropriate use a straight line to describe the relationship allowing for variation, make predictions based on this straight line and discuss limitations (VCMSP373)
    1. investigating different techniques for finding a ‘line of best fit’
    2. using a fitted line to data to make predictions between and beyond existing data value sand discuss limitations of these predictions
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