10 Mathematics
10MTH Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Mrs E. Hayman.
Recommended Prior LearningIn Year 10 Mathematics, students build on the knowledge and skills developed in earlier years, particularly from
Level 4 of the New Zealand Curriculum. A secure understanding of the following concepts will help students make a strong and confident start to the programme:
Number: Fluency with the four operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division), secure recall of basic facts (including times tables), understanding of place value, and confidence working with fractions, decimals, percentages, and integers (positive and negative numbers).
Algebra: Ability to recognise and continue number patterns, use letters or symbols to represent unknowns, describe and apply simple rules or relationships, and begin to manipulate and solve simple equations.
Geometry and Measurement: Knowledge of properties of common 2D and 3D shapes, accurate measuring using standard metric units, ability to calculate perimeter and area of basic shapes, and familiarity with symmetry, reflections, rotations, translations, and using directions or grid references.
Statistics: Experience in collecting, organising, and displaying data using tables and a variety of graphs (e.g. bar graphs, pictograms), and beginning to describe patterns or trends using informal language.
Students who are confident in these areas are well-placed to engage with the deeper and more abstract mathematical thinking introduced in Year 10.
In Year 10 Mathematics, students continue to deepen their understanding of key mathematical ideas across the strands of Number, Algebra, Geometry, Measurement, and Statistics. The focus is on developing both conceptual understanding and procedural fluency, with increasing emphasis on mathematical reasoning and the ability to apply knowledge in unfamiliar contexts.
We aim to equip students with the confidence and skills to become independent problem solvers who can make sense of mathematical relationships and communicate their thinking effectively.
Assessment in Year 10 includes topic tests, assignments, and a comprehensive end of year examination. These assessments, along with classwork and teacher observations, inform class placements for the following year ensuring each student is well positioned to continue progressing at the appropriate curriculum level in a setting that best supports their learning needs.
Year 10 Mathematics provides an excellent foundation for the study of Mathematics and Statistics courses in Years 11, 12, and 13.
Course Overview
Term 1
This is a general outline only. The order and specific concepts taught may vary depending on the class and teacher, as topics are adapted to meet the learning needs of each group.
Number & Algebra: Equations and Relationships
*Compare and order decimals, including scientific notation and negative powers
*Convert NZD to other currencies
*Compare prices using rates (e.g. cost per kg)
*Explore square roots and exponents (e.g. √(3² + 4²))
*Round to a required degree of precision
*Solve equations and inequalities with rational number solutions
*Introduce algorithms with sequence, selection, and iteration
Term 2
Measurement & Algebra
*Use metric prefixes (e.g. kilo, milli, nano)
*Solve problems involving speed, distance, and time
*Reason with duration using different time units, including decimals
*Surface area and volume of prisms and cylinders
*Continue developing algebraic reasoning and manipulation
Term 3
Number & Algebra
*Revisit and consolidate number structure and operations
*Apply number and algebra to real-world contexts
*Work with formulas and algebraic problem-solving in measurement-based scenarios
Term 4
Geometry, Statistics, Probability
*Use properties of similarity and enlargement in 2D shapes
*Determine scale factors for area and volume
*Transformation geometry (focus on enlargement)
*Introductory statistics (data displays, summary measures)
*Foundational probability and reasoning with chance
Assessment Policy & Procedures Pathway Course Costs and Equipment/ Stationery requirements
We highly recommend that students have access to a Casio graphic calculator (fx-9860GIII, approximately $180). Older models, such as the Casio fx-9750G, are also suitable. If you’re unsure, please check with your child’s Mathematics teacher before purchasing whether from the school uniform shop or another retailer. While any calculator that handles powers and square roots is sufficient for Year 9, investing in a Casio graphics calculator early allows students to become confident with its functions and get the most out of it as they progress. It will be required from Year 10 onwards, so having one earlier can be a real advantage.
Write-on homework book (approximately $19) OR student workbook(s) ( $15 in total) as advised by their teacher.
In addition, students are expected to bring standard stationery items, including: A ruler, glue stick, protractor, compass & three 1J5 exercise books.
Note: All prices are approximate and may change slightly due to updates from suppliers or production costs. We will do our best to keep any changes as minimal as possible.
If the cost of any items presents a challenge, we warmly encourage you to contact the Dean early in Term 1 next year to discuss possible support.