Year 9 Mathematics

Mathematics is a coherent, consistent, and growing body of concepts which makes use of specific language and skills to model, analyse, and interpret the world. Mathematics, and Algebra in particular, provide a means of communication which is powerful, concise, and unambiguous. As a human endeavour, mathematics involves creativity and imagination in the discovery of patterns, the perceiving of relationships, the development and use of models, the interpretation of data, and the communication of emerging ideas and concepts. The main aims of mathematics instruction at St Catherine’s College are the development of problem solving abilities and understanding. We believe that these are at the heart of mathematics, and that they not only transfer to other academic areas but are also integral skills used later in life. We encourage students to take ownership of their learning as we help our girls to develop leadership skills by giving them the opportunity to act as tutor group captains. Our teaching emphasises creative and the exploration of different methods of viewing and solving problems as we stress the why of mathematics instead of facilitating a mechanical, formula–oriented style of learning. Classroom instruction and homework assignments are structured not only to include but to emphasise problem solving. This enables students to experience the satisfaction and joy of doing mathematics and, more importantly, achieve a sense of mathematical self-reliance. It is intended that the experience of this course will lay the foundation for conceptual understanding which learners can build on subsequently.