Mathematics

HSC Results

The 2024 Year 12 cohort achieved some of the strongest HSC results seen at Warners Bay High School in recent years. The Mathematics department helped students to achieve to their potential throughout the year with:

· 2 students in Extension 2 achieving a Band E3.

· 5 students in Extension 1 achieving a Band E3.

· 1 student in Advanced Maths achieving a Band 6 (as well as 2 of the extension 2 students receiving a notional Band 6, meaning that if they had sat the advanced exam, they would have achieved a Band 6). A further 5 students achieved a Band 5 in the Advanced course.

· 6 students in Standard 2 achieving a Band 6 and 22 students achieving a Band 5.

· 1 student in Standard 1 achieving a Band 6 and 4 students achieving a Band 5.

These are excellent results. All of these students embodied the spirit of a mathematician. They embraced the challenges of mathematics and worked hard to understand how mathematics connects everything around us through creative and critical thinking and problem solving. Above all, these students sought to understand why things worked the way they did, which allowed for a deeper understanding of the mathematical concepts.

Numeracy Growth

Our school's commitment to numeracy excellence has led to outstanding improvements in NAPLAN results, reflecting the hard work of our students and the success of our targeted support programs! Through NAPLAN Online practice, students have built confidence in tackling complex questions under exam conditions. Our engaging Ninja Maths program has made problem-solving fun and interactive, sharpening essential skills in a dynamic way. Meanwhile, our Breakfast Club sessions have provided a supportive space for students to refine their numeracy skills with guidance from dedicated teachers. These initiatives have empowered students to think critically, apply mathematical reasoning in real-world contexts, and achieve impressive growth in their NAPLAN performance. Congratulations to all students and staff for their dedication—our school continues to be a leader in fostering strong mathematical thinkers!

Australian Maths Competition

This year, 40 of our students took on the challenge of the Australian Mathematics Competition, pushing their problem-solving skills to new heights! The competition tested their ability to think outside the box, approach problems creatively, and apply logical reasoning in exciting and unexpected ways. We are incredibly proud of all our participants for embracing the challenge, with one standout student achieving a High Distinction—a remarkable achievement placing them among the top problem solvers in the country! The AMC isn’t just about numbers; it’s about expanding our minds, tackling problems from fresh

perspectives, and building confidence in thinking beyond the classroom. Congratulations to all who participated—you’ve taken a big step in developing lifelong mathematical and critical-thinking skills!

Breakfast Club

Following the success of Breakfast Club in 2023, the Maths faculty, led by Mr McLennan has continued to support student success and develop through daily support sessions each morning. Breakfast club runs each morning from 8:15 am in D16 and allows students a safe place to seek further support and help from experienced and dedicated maths teachers whilst also enjoying some hot chocolate. All students are welcome and are encouraged to join us again in 2025.

Maths Outside the Square

2024 saw the introduction of a maths elective course in year 8 called Maths Outside the Square. 12 students chose to undertake this course and explored concepts. ‘Maths Outside the Square’ takes Year 8 students on an exciting journey through the hidden wonders of mathematics. Kicking off with The Simple Things, students unravel fascinating number patterns, dive into prime mysteries, and even explore mathematical magic tricks. In Mathematics and Beauty, they discover the breathtaking connection between maths and the world around us—exploring the Fibonacci sequence, the golden ratio, and mind-bending fractals. Number Systems uncovers the secrets of ancient numbers and the digital world of binary, revealing how maths shapes history and technology. Finally, in Games, students sharpen their strategic thinking with brain-teasing puzzles and mathematical games that challenge the very nature of winning. With hands-on activities, real-world applications, and plenty of "aha!" moments, this program makes maths more thrilling than ever!