I have recently moved to the acting role of Head of Mathematics, and have been reflecting on the question why should we study Mathematics? There are several great reasons to do so. One major reason is that mathematical skills, thinking and literacy are required to solve problems across other subject areas. The Western Australian Curriculum Rationale for Mathematics states that

Mathematics ensures that the links between the various components of mathematics, as well as the relationship between mathematics and other disciplines, are made clear. Mathematics is composed of multiple but interrelated and interdependent concepts and systems which students apply beyond the mathematics classroom.

Consider what Physics or Accounting would look like without any mathematics. The scope is not limited to those subjects with clear mathematical formulae – but to practical subjects with measurements and Visual Art with spatial awareness, not to mention the concepts in many ways in Music.

This past week we have remembered ANZAC Day and several Mathematics classes considered the mathematics and the landing on the shores of Gallipoli. Students used their mathematical skills in interpreting maps, scale, 24-hour time, brigade sizes and the magnitude of the wounded and killed in Gallipoli.

Education is not composed of islands studied in one-hour blocks, but is a rich tapestry entwined together. Mathematics is one of the key elements that knits the whole production together.

Lyndon Rice

Acting Head of Mathematics