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VCEVMNumeracy Study Design

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u8pnuoux
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© © All Rights Reserved
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Available Formats
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VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

Accreditation Period

2023–2027

VCE Vocational Major

Numeracy
STUDY DESIGN
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

Authorised and published by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority


Level 7, 2 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
© Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority 2022

No part of this publication may be reproduced except as specified under the Copyright Act 1968 or by permission from the
VCAA. Excepting third-party elements, schools may use this resource in accordance with the VCAA educational
allowance. For more information go to www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/Footer/Pages/Copyright.aspx.
The VCAA provides the only official, up-to-date versions of VCAA publications. Details of updates can be found on the
VCAA website at www.vcaa.vic.edu.au.
This publication may contain copyright material belonging to a third party. Every effort has been made to contact all
copyright owners. If you believe that material in this publication is an infringement of your copyright, please email the
Copyright Officer [email protected]
Copyright in materials appearing at any sites linked to this document rests with the copyright owner(s) of those materials,
subject to the Copyright Act. The VCAA recommends you refer to copyright statements at linked sites before using such
materials.
The VCAA logo is a registered trademark of the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority.

Contact the VCAA if you require this information in an accessible format; for example, large print or audio.
Telephone (03) 9032 1635 or email [email protected]
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

Contents
Important information.....................................................................................................................................
Accreditation period......................................................................................................................................
Other sources of information........................................................................................................................
Providers......................................................................................................................................................
Copyright......................................................................................................................................................

Introduction.....................................................................................................................................................
Scope of study..............................................................................................................................................
Rationale......................................................................................................................................................
Applied learning............................................................................................................................................
Approaches to applied learning................................................................................................................
Aims.............................................................................................................................................................
Structure.......................................................................................................................................................
Flexible delivery............................................................................................................................................
Entry...........................................................................................................................................................
Duration......................................................................................................................................................
Changes to the study design......................................................................................................................
Monitoring for quality..................................................................................................................................
Safety and wellbeing..................................................................................................................................
Employability skills......................................................................................................................................
Standards...................................................................................................................................................
Resources..................................................................................................................................................
Legislative compliance...............................................................................................................................
Child Safe Standards..................................................................................................................................

Assessment and reporting...........................................................................................................................


Assessment................................................................................................................................................
Satisfactory completion...............................................................................................................................
Authentication.............................................................................................................................................

Numeracy study components......................................................................................................................


Selecting the areas of study and the Numeracies......................................................................................

Unit 1..............................................................................................................................................................
Areas of study.............................................................................................................................................
Outcomes...................................................................................................................................................
Outcome 1..............................................................................................................................................
Areas of Study........................................................................................................................................
Selecting numeracies for Unit 1..............................................................................................................
Outcome 2..............................................................................................................................................
Outcome 3..............................................................................................................................................
Satisfactory Completion..............................................................................................................................
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

Assessment Tools..................................................................................................................................

Unit 2..............................................................................................................................................................
Areas of study.............................................................................................................................................
Selecting the areas of study.......................................................................................................................
Outcomes...................................................................................................................................................
Outcome 1..............................................................................................................................................
Areas of Study........................................................................................................................................
Selecting numeracies for Units 1 and 2..................................................................................................
Outcome 2..............................................................................................................................................
Outcome 3..............................................................................................................................................
Satisfactory Completion..............................................................................................................................
Assessment Tools..................................................................................................................................

Unit 3..............................................................................................................................................................
Areas of study.............................................................................................................................................
Outcomes...................................................................................................................................................
Outcome 1..............................................................................................................................................
Areas of Study........................................................................................................................................
Selecting numeracies for Units 3 and 4..................................................................................................
Outcome 2..............................................................................................................................................
Outcome 3..............................................................................................................................................
Satisfactory Completion..............................................................................................................................
Assessment Tools..................................................................................................................................

Unit 4..............................................................................................................................................................
Areas of study.............................................................................................................................................
Selecting the areas of study.......................................................................................................................
Outcomes...................................................................................................................................................
Outcome 1..............................................................................................................................................
Areas of Study........................................................................................................................................
Selecting numeracies for Units 3 and 4..................................................................................................
Outcome 2..............................................................................................................................................
Outcome 3..............................................................................................................................................
Satisfactory Completion..............................................................................................................................
Assessment Tools..................................................................................................................................
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

VCE Vocational Major


Numeracy
Important information
Accreditation period
1 January 2023 – 31 December 2027

Implementation of this study commences in 2023.

Other sources of information


The VCAA Bulletin is the only official source of changes to regulations and accredited studies. The
Bulletin regularly includes advice on VCE studies, VCE VET programs and VCE Vocational Major
(VM) studies. It is the responsibility of each teacher to refer to each issue of the Bulletin. The Bulletin
is available as an e-newsletter via free subscription on the VCAA’s website at: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au.

To assist teachers in developing courses, the VCAA publishes online Support materials (incorporating
the previously known Advice for teachers), which provides:

 curriculum development and assessment advice


 examples of teaching and learning activities
 lists of resources
 advice on how to deliver the VCE Vocational Major and Victorian Pathways Certificate in the
same classroom
 advice on how to integrate other Vocational Major units with the Literacy units
 advice on teaching students with additional needs, including adjustment advice for students with
disabilities.
The VCE Administrative Handbook contains essential information on assessment processes and
other procedures.

Providers
Throughout this study design the term ‘school’ is intended to include both schools and non-school
providers.

Copyright
Schools may reproduce parts of this study design for use by teachers. The full VCAA Copyright Policy
is available at: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/Footer/Pages/Copyright.aspx.

© VCAA 5
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

Introduction
Scope of study
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy focuses on enabling students to develop and enhance their
numeracy skills to make sense of their personal, public and vocational lives. Students develop
mathematical skills with consideration of their local, national and global environments and contexts,
and an awareness and use of appropriate technologies.

This study allows students to explore the underpinning mathematical knowledge of number and
quantity, measurement, shape, dimensions and directions, data and chance, the understanding and
use of systems and processes, and mathematical relationships and thinking. This mathematical
knowledge is then applied to tasks which are part of the students’ daily routines and practices, but
also extends to applications outside the immediate personal environment, such as the workplace and
community.

The contexts are the starting point and the focus, and are framed in terms of personal, financial, civic,
health, recreational and vocational classifications. These numeracies are developed using a problem-
solving cycle with four components: formulating; acting on and using mathematics; evaluating and
reflecting; and communicating and reporting.

Rationale
Numeracy empowers students to use mathematics to make sense of the world and apply
mathematics in a context for work, citizenship, personal or social purpose. Numeracy gives meaning
to mathematics, where mathematics is the tool (knowledge and skills) to be applied efficiently and
critically. Numeracy involves the use and application of a range of mathematical skills and knowledge
that arise in a range of different contexts and situations.
Numeracy enables students to develop logical thinking and reasoning strategies in their everyday
activities. It develops students’ problem-solving skills, and allows them to make sense of numbers,
time, patterns and shapes for everyday activities like cooking, gardening, sport and travel. Through
the applied learning principles Numeracy students will understand the mathematical requirements for
personal organisation matters involving money, time and travel. They can then apply these skills to
their everyday lives to recognise monetary value, understand scheduling and timetabling, direction,
planning, monetary risk and reward.

Technology is an integral part of everyday and working life in Australia. Handheld devices like tablets
are used for common daily uses: connectivity, communication, sourcing information, and as a tool for
carrying out a myriad of functions. Software applications are available on a range of devices. There is
an expectation that our students are ready with these skills when they transition to independent living,
further study or to work. The integration of digital technologies in the learning of mathematical
processes is essential and is embedded throughout this study.

Applied learning

© VCAA 6
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

VM Numeracy is based on an applied learning approach to teaching, ensuring students feel


empowered to make informed choices about the next stage of their lives through experiential learning
and authentic learning experiences.

Applied learning incorporates the teaching of skills and knowledge in the context of ‘real life’
experiences. Students will apply what they have learnt by doing, experiencing and relating acquired
skills to the real world. Applied learning teaching and practice ensures that what is learnt in the
classroom is connected to scenarios and experiences outside the classroom and makes that
connection as immediate and transparent as possible.

Applied learning is about nurturing and working with a student in a holistic manner, taking into account
their personal strengths, interests, goals and previous experiences to ensure a flexible and
independent approach to learning. Applied learning emphasises skills and knowledge that may not
normally be the focus of more traditional school curriculums. It also recognises individual differences
in ways of learning and post-educational experiences. Real-life application often requires a shift from
a traditional focus on discrete curriculum to a more integrated and contextualised approach to
learning, as students learn and apply the skills and knowledge required to solve problems, implement
projects or participate in the workforce.

This study design acknowledges that part of the transition from school to further education, training
and employment is the ability to participate and function in society as an adult. Moving students out of
the classroom to learn allows them to make the shift to become more independent and responsible for
their own learning and increase their intrinsic motivation. Best practice applied learning programs are
flexible and student-centred, where learning goals and outcomes are individually designed and
negotiated with students.

Applied learning may also involve students and their teachers working in partnership with external
organisations and individuals to access VET and integrated work placements. These partnerships
provide the necessary contexts for students to demonstrate the relevance of the skills and knowledge
they have acquired in their study and training.

© VCAA 7
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

Approaches to applied learning


The VM Numeracy Study Design is based on an applied learning approach to teaching this study. Applied learning principles and practices are embodied in the
following five categories.

Motivation to engage in learning Applied learning practices Student agency in learning A student-centred and flexible Assessment practices which
approach promote success

● Ensure what is learnt in the ● Ensure students apply what they ● Engage in a dialogue with students ● Understand the students’ knowledge ● Use the assessment method
classroom is connected to scenarios have learnt by utilising the learning about the curriculum and how they and skills prior to commencing the that best fits the content and
and experiences outside the cycle of doing, experiencing, can make connections study and use this as the starting context and allows for
classroom and makes that reflecting and relating new ● Ensure students are moving to equal point for their learning incremental indications of
connection as immediate and knowledge and skills to the real world partners in determining the learning ● Understand and encourage students’ success
transparent as possible ● To cater for individual student needs, process as they develop greater personal, education and pathway ● Afford students multiple
● Engage students in demonstrations, use authentic materials and independence and responsibility for goals opportunities for success and
activities, investigations and resources drawn from everyday life their own learning ● Consider the whole person and assessment.
problem-solving in the classroom, rather than mass-produced textbooks ● Encourage students to collaborate celebrate successes and
community, workplace and other or materials with peers and identify and utilise connections to build resilience,
educational settings ● Utilise the experience and knowledge individual and group strengths, and confidence and self-worth
● Undertake activities that challenge of community members including reflect on each stage of their learning ● Build on the positive strengths of
the student’s level of competence employers, cultural and community journey each student, including learning
and support them to succeed and leaders and former students ● Share knowledge and recognise the strengths and character strengths
build self-efficacy. ● Ensure learning reflects the intellectual, cultural and practical ● Teach concepts in contexts relevant
integration that occurs in real-life knowledge students bring to the to the students’ backgrounds,
tasks, incorporating skills and learning environment interests and experiences
knowledge relevant to the whole task ● Value students’ own approaches to ● Facilitate mutually beneficial
and the whole person such as the study including effective use of relationships with a range of local
collaboration, communication, supporting technologies communities while raising awareness
problem solving and interpersonal
● Support students to learn through about social and community issues
skills
interaction and cooperation via and practices that influence and
● Present learning activities in different discussion, asking questions, giving impact on students’ lives and futures.
modalities: visual, auditory and explanations and presentations, and
kinesthetic, to allow the greatest working cooperatively in pairs or
uptake of knowledge small groups.
● Explicitly teach the technical
language of the content that can be
applied by students in talking,
reading, writing and listening, using

© VCAA 8
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027
Motivation to engage in learning Applied learning practices Student agency in learning A student-centred and flexible Assessment practices which
approach promote success

authentic examples.

© VCAA 9
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

Aims
This study enables students to:

 develop and enhance their numeracy practices to help them make sense of their personal, public
and vocational lives
 develop mathematical skills with consideration of their local, national and global environments and
contexts, and an awareness and use of appropriate technologies.

Structure
This study is made up of four units. Each unit deals with specific content contained in the areas of
study and is designed to enable students to achieve a set of outcomes for that unit.

The Numeracy study design is structured around four complementary and essential components. See
the ‘Numeracy study components’ section for details of these components, including: eight areas of
study; Outcome 1 numeracy contexts; Outcome 2 problem-solving cycle; and Outcome 3
mathematical toolkit.

A glossary defining numerical and mathematical terms and notations used across Units 1 to 4 in the
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy Study Design is included in the VCE VM Support materials.

The structure of this study is similar to other VCE Mathematics studies, ensuring a familiar format.

Flexible delivery
VM Numeracy has been designed so that Units 1 and 2 can be undertaken as standalone units or
concurrently. Units 3 and 4 may be undertaken sequentially. See Entry below for further information.

Numeracy units have been designed to complement the full suite of VCE Vocational Major studies to
ensure it is possible to deliver the units in an integrated approach. Flexible delivery of the Vocational
Major units allows for integration of complementary outcomes across the studies.

Teaching programs can be flexibly structured so that students can undertake programs and projects
that combine acquisition and application of knowledge and skills across several of the VCE Vocational
Major units. Integration of teaching and learning materials and activities can increase understanding
and application of general concepts, develop multiple perspectives and points of view, and increase
the ability of the student to make decisions, think critically and creatively and build skills in problem
solving. It may also enhance a learner’s ability to transfer knowledge learnt in one study to other
aspects of their life. Through integration of units and outcomes, it will be possible to create greater
opportunity for collaboration and team projects.

In an integrated, flexible program students will still need to meet the individual outcomes, including
key knowledge and key skills, for each of the units of study. Teachers should keep clear
documentation of the student’s achievement of the individual outcomes within any integrated teaching
and learning program.

An assessment task used to demonstrate achievement of one outcome in one VCE Vocational Major
unit cannot be used to demonstrate achievement in any other VCE Vocational Major unit, Victorian
Pathways Certificate unit, VET unit of competency or VCE study.

© VCAA 10
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

Entry
There are no prerequisites for entry into Units 1 and 2. Units 3 and 4 will be undertaken sequentially.
Students will be introduced to the outcomes for both units at the beginning of the year so they can
effectively plan for the latter part of the year and take appropriate actions to be ready for those
outcomes.

Duration
Each unit involves at least 50 hours of scheduled classroom instruction.

Changes to the study design


During its period of accreditation minor changes to the study will be announced via the VCAA Bulletin.
The Bulletin is the only source of changes to regulations and accredited studies. It is the responsibility
of each teacher to monitor changes or advice about studies published in the Bulletin.

Monitoring for quality


As part of ongoing monitoring and quality assurance, the VCAA will periodically undertake an audit of
VM Numeracy to ensure the study is being taught and assessed as accredited. The details of the
audit procedures and requirements are published annually in the VCE Administrative Handbook.
Schools will be notified when they are required to submit material to be audited.

Safety and wellbeing


It is the responsibility of the school to ensure that duty of care is exercised in relation to the health and
safety of all students undertaking the study.

Employability skills
This study offers a number of opportunities for students to develop employability skills. The VCE VM
Numeracy Support materials provides specific examples of how students can develop employability
skills during learning activities and assessment tasks.

Standards
The content of this study will support students to achieve core skills in literacy and numeracy across
the curriculum.

Resources
There are no specialist resource requirements.

© VCAA 11
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

Legislative compliance
When collecting and using information, the provisions of privacy and copyright legislation, such as the
Victorian Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 and Health Records Act 2001, and the federal Privacy
Act 1988 and Copyright Act 1968, must be met.

Child Safe Standards


Schools and education and training providers are required to comply with the Child Safe Standards
made under the Victorian Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005. Registered schools are required to
comply with Ministerial Order No. 870 Child Safe Standards – Managing the Risk of Child Abuse in
Schools. For further information, consult the websites of the Victorian Registration and Qualifications
Authority, the Commission for Children and Young People and the Department of Education and
Training.

© VCAA 12
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

Assessment and reporting


Assessment
Assessment is an integral part of teaching and learning that at the senior secondary level:

 identifies opportunities for further learning


 describes student achievement
 articulates and maintains standards
 provides the basis for the award of a certificate.

In the VCE Vocational Major it is expected that assessment tasks are in line with the key principles
underpinning all VCE assessment practice. The system for assessing the learning outcomes for
students must be valid, reasonable, equitable, balanced and efficient. To be valid and reasonable the
assessment tools should only assess learning within the scope of the study design, students should
be given clear instructions and tasks should be administered under conditions that are reasonably the
same for all students. School moderation of tasks ensures fairness in assessment. To be equitable
assessment tasks should neither privilege nor disadvantage certain groups of students based on
gender, culture, physical disability, socioeconomic status or geographical location. In order to be
balanced, assessment tasks should be designed to provide a range of opportunities for students to
demonstrate their learning. In order to be efficient, each assessment task should balance the
demands of precision with those of efficiency, ensuring they do not create workload or stress that
diminishes the performance of students.

The standards of this course are described in the outcomes, which will guide teachers and students
as to what students are expected to know, understand and do as a result of the learning.
Development of the assessment tasks identified to gather evidence of the designated learning will be
done within the specific context of the setting and will be related to applied learning principles by
having authentic purposes and practical outcomes. Teachers will then design the learning experiences
and instruction necessary for students to meet the goals, following the backward design model.1

The teacher will ascertain a student’s achievement of the required standard when their assessment
tools combine to provide evidence of achievement of the outcomes. A key indicator of the level of
achievement of the standard are the active verbs at the start of each statement, based on the
hierarchy of knowledge in Bloom’s Taxonomy.2 This decision will be supported by additional advice on
rubric development and practical examples in the VCE VM Numeracy Support materials. The
Curriculum and Assessment Audit will support the teacher’s understanding and use of such resource
materials.

Satisfactory completion
The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on the teacher’s decision that the student has
demonstrated achievement of the set of outcomes specified for the unit. Demonstration of

1
McTighe J (n.d.) Understanding by Design. Three Stages of Backward Design: Frequently Asked Questions

2
Bloom, B 1984 Taxonomy of Educational Objectives, Allyn and Bacon, Boston

© VCAA 13
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

achievement of outcomes and satisfactory completion of a unit are determined by evidence gained
through the use of assessment tools. Teachers must develop courses that provide appropriate
opportunities for students to demonstrate satisfactory achievement of outcomes.

The decision about satisfactory completion of a unit is distinct from the assessment of levels of
achievement. Schools will report a student’s result for each unit to the VCAA as S (Satisfactory) or N
(Not Satisfactory).

An assessment task used to demonstrate achievement of one outcome in a VCE Vocational Major
unit cannot be used to demonstrate achievement in any other VCE Vocational Major unit, VET unit of
competency or VCE study.

Authentication
Work related to the outcomes of each unit will be accepted only if the teacher can attest that, to the
best of their knowledge, all unacknowledged work is the student’s own. Teachers need to refer to the
VCE Administrative Handbook for authentication procedures.

© VCAA 14
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

Numeracy study components


VCE Vocational Major Numeracy is designed around four complementary and essential components:

1. Eight areas of study (four in each unit) that name and describe a range of different mathematical
knowledge and skills that are expected to be used and applied across the three outcomes.
2. Outcome 1 is framed around working mathematically across six different numeracy contexts:
a) Personal numeracy
b) Civic numeracy
c) Financial numeracy
d) Health numeracy
e) Vocational numeracy
f) Recreational numeracy.
3. Outcome 2 elaborates and describes a four-stage problem-solving cycle that underpins the
capabilities required to solve a mathematical problem embedded in the real world.
4. Outcome 3 requires students to develop and use a technical mathematical toolkit as they
undertake their numeracy activities and tasks. Students should be able to confidently use multiple
mathematical tools, both analogue and digital/technological.

The VM Numeracy structure

© VCAA 15
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

Selecting the areas of study and the numeracies


Students will cover the eight areas of study at least once across Units 1 and 2, and across Units 3 and
4 (four areas of study in each unit).

Areas of study are to be selected to support the teaching and learning for each of the six numeracies,
as appropriate to the situations and contextual problems being solved. The order in which the areas of
study are taught, and how they are combined with other areas of study, is decided by the school and
the teachers. This flexibility is an essential aspect of an applied learning approach.

Combinations can be based on the needs and interests of the student cohort and its community, and
related vocational and work requirements.

Schools and teachers must make their selection of the areas of study based on the following
guidelines:

 Each unit must include three numeracies.


 All six numeracies must be covered across Units 1 and 2 and across Units 3 and 4.
 Select either one or two areas of study to support each selected numeracy (four areas of study
are covered in each unit).

Unpacking terminology in the outcome statements.


Familiar refers to situations that are either well-known by the student(s) or an area that students have
had previous experience with, either in their lives within, or outside, school. Applying the key
mathematical knowledge and skills in well-known situations allows for the student(s) to access
and build strong meaningful connections between the mathematics and the real-life context.
Unfamiliar therefore refers to situations or contexts that are not previously encountered by the
student(s) and are designed to extend their conceptual and contextual experience. Extending the
conceptual application of mathematical key knowledge and skills to unknown situations should
strengthen the skills of the student(s) to recognise and act on their mathematical knowledge and
transfer their skills to other new contexts.
Routine contexts and tasks are those which people commonly encounter and undertake in their lives,
often as part of work practices. These involve activities or procedures that are done regularly or at
specified intervals involving frequent practice.

Specialised contexts are situations and tasks related to a specific purpose or area of knowledge,
which may include higher order requirements, where the student needs to know about particular and
distinct terminology and procedures in order to apply their mathematical knowledge and skills, and to
carry out the mathematical actions.

© VCAA 16
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

Unit 1
In Unit 1 students will develop their numeracy practices to make sense of their personal, public and
vocational lives. They will develop mathematical skills with consideration of their local, community,
national and global environments and contexts, and an awareness and use of appropriate
technologies.

These units provide students with the fundamental mathematical knowledge, skills, understandings
and dispositions to solve problems in real contexts for a range of workplace, personal, further learning
and community settings relevant to contemporary society.

Areas of study
There are four areas of study for Unit 1:

 Area of Study 1: Number


 Area of Study 2: Shape
 Area of Study 3: Quantity and measures
 Area of Study 4: Relationships.

The areas of study cover a range of different mathematical knowledge and skills that are expected to
be used and applied across the three outcomes.

Outcomes
For Units 1 and 2 the student is required to demonstrate achievement of three outcomes. As a set
these outcomes are required to encompass all eight areas of study across the two units.

At the end of Units 1 and 2, students should be able to select the appropriate method or approach
required, attempt a series of operations or tasks, and communicate their ideas in multiple formats,
including verbal and written form. Students should also be at ease with straightforward calculations
manually and/or using technology.

Outcome 1
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to select, interpret and use the mathematical
key knowledge and key skills from the four Areas of Study 1-4, embedded in familiar, routine and
some less familiar contexts across the chosen range of numeracies.

Numeracy in context
The purpose of Outcome 1 is to support and enable students to develop a range of different numeracy
skills and capabilities in order to make sense of their daily personal, public and vocational lives.

Outcome 1 describes the range of contexts that are the starting points and the focus for developing
the student’s numeracy and mathematical skills. These six numeracies cover personal, financial, civic,
health, recreational and vocational contexts where a range of mathematical skills are situated and
embedded.

© VCAA 17
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

The six numeracies are intended to be selected to best meet the needs and interests of the students
and the school community, and should be mapped to the relevant and appropriate areas of study
depending on the underpinning mathematical knowledge and skills required. The different numeracies
can take on a more vocational focus if appropriate. For example, financial numeracy could take as its
focus vocations such the financial or business sectors, or health numeracy could focus on working in
the health, community or medical sectors.

Structure of Outcome 1
Outcome 1 is framed by six different numeracies over two units. Each unit should cover three of
the numeracies.

 Choose three of the six numeracies.


 All six numeracies must be covered across Units 1 and 2.
 Select either one or two areas of study to support each selected numeracy.

a) Personal numeracy relates to the mathematical requirements for personal organisational


matters involving numbers, data, money, time and travel.

Personal numeracy relates to understanding, using and interpreting numerical and mathematical
information presented and embedded in different formats and media, to undertake personally
relevant activities in familiar, routine and some less familiar situations.

The understanding, use and interpretation of personal numeracy can be drawn from, but is not
limited to, the following examples:

 numerical information embedded in print and digital media, including monetary values
 planning a family or cultural event, such as trips to sites of cultural significance, or a BBQ
 personal and home/family day-to-day tasks such as cooking, gardening, sport, travel
 planning a class excursion or event including costs and logistics
 shopping and savings related activities such as comparing prices with different percentage
discounts, or using and calculating unit prices.

b) Civic numeracy relates to participating in civic life through knowing how to stay informed, and
understanding government, political and social data, information and processes.
Civic numeracy includes understanding, interpreting and reviewing statistical and quantitative
information presented by governments and in news and media reports, and other data-related
sources to meet the demands and challenges of life at local, state, national and global levels. It
can incorporate the understanding, use and interpretation of quantitative and statistical
information.

The understanding, use and interpretation of civic numeracy can be drawn from, but is not limited
to, the following examples:

 political or government-related information, including advertising, elections and voting


 local environmental issues from multiple perspectives including First Nations peoples’
perspectives, such as land management, fire management, waterways, wildlife
 local community social and environmental issues such as climate change, human rights,
animal rights, cultural sites
 managing personal and social responsibilities and obligations
 basic economic data including unemployment rates, underemployment, participation rates,
inflation and official interest rates.

© VCAA 18
VCE Vocational Major Numeracy 2023–2027

c) Financial numeracy relates to understanding and undertaking financial transactions and making
informed judgments and decisions regarding the use and management of money.

Financial numeracy involves managing relevant personal, social or work-related financial costs,
charges, income and expenditure.

The understanding, use and interpretation of financial numeracy can be drawn from, but is not
limited to, the following examples:

 personal money management such as banking, monitoring debit and credit transactions, and
keeping track of money
 online financial services such as mobile banking, Medicare and MyGov services
 occupational income and expenses, penalty rates, sales-based commissions
 government financial systems such as taxation, GST, student loans, superannuation and
Medicare
 calculations for allowances, such as travel, uniform and vehicle use
 utility and other relevant personal or family bills and charges, and comparing providers
 personal loans such as car loans, payday loans, buy now pay later services and store credit,
use of online interest calculators
 making informed decisions about credit, including interest, minimum repayments, frequency
of repayments, transacting safely online and via apps, and avoiding scams
 short- and long-term costs of purchases on oneself, family or communities, and the planet, for
example interpreting special deals, or buying new versus second-hand.

d) Health numeracy relates to accessing, understanding and using mathematical information to


make decisions and act in the interests of personal and community health and well-being.

Health numeracy involves being able to use mathematics to manage one’s own health, safety
and well-being, alongside being aware of such issues from a community or work-related
perspective.

The understanding, use and interpretation of health numeracy can be drawn from, but is not
limited to, the following examples:

 nutrition or fitness, including setting goals and understanding issues such as the relationships
between lifestyle and disease
 social health issues such as drinking, safe driving, obesity, drugs
 health and safety at work such as accident types, rates and causes, audits of workplace
chemicals and comparison with home-based chemicals
 medical information within a hospital/doctor setting such as typical blood pressure, heart rate,
respiration rate, body temperature
 publicly available medical and health information and advice, for example in relation to
maintaining a healthy and safe lifestyle including healthy eating/diet, exercise or diseases and
pandemics
 personal medical care, such as the use and dosages of medications, including scheduling
 health and safety matters related to potential accidents and use of chemicals
 health care costs, including Medicare rebates and surcharge, comparing and using private
health insurance.

e) Vocational numeracy relates to effectively participating in the workplace and managing the
demands of work and/or vocational training.

Vocational or work-related numeracy includes the undertaking the required tasks and activities in
a work-related context, such as using different workplace measurements, tools, applications and

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processes/systems, following and giving directions, participating in quality assurance processes


and data collection, and reading workplace documents and information.

The understanding, use and interpretation of vocational numeracy can be drawn from, but is not
limited to, the following examples:

 workforce comparisons from past practice (pre-digital) to current (digital), including time to
complete tasks and effort involved
 reading, following or creating instructions and documents related to workplace tasks such as
phone numbers, proportions and rates to mix chemicals or for handling hazardous chemicals
or substances, including interpreting Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
 occupational health and safety or quality assurance requirements
 workplace specific plans, diagrams, formulas, proportions and rates
 different technological, digital or analogue measuring and processing devices, tools and
applications
 tolerances and levels of accuracy and the implications of incorrect applications or mixing of
chemicals.

f) Recreational numeracy relates to the mathematical aspects of recreational activities including


but not limited to arts, sport and social media.

Recreational numeracy encompasses not only physical exercise and sport, but also aspects of
personal time spent on non-work activities such as indoor and outdoor pursuits, arts, social
media, and interests such as gaming. It also covers community, cultural or religious activities.

The understanding, use and interpretation of recreational numeracy can be drawn from, but is
not limited to, the following examples:

 the planning of an activity or event including costings, steps and processes


 comparison of planning and costs of different party venues and events, such as for a birthday
party or cultural celebration
 traditional and modern games including games played by First Nations peoples and other
cultural groups across different regions of Australia
 dimensions and specifications of playing or community recreation areas, such as the size of a
netball court, chessboard, or multipurpose court
 dimensions and specifications of art and craft products being planned or created, such as
photo sizes, dresses/costumes, furniture
 rules and game scoring systems and formulas, penalties, fines, timing
 use and overuse of recreational activities and associated dangers.

Areas of study

Area of Study 1: Number


In this area of study students will develop number sense through meaningful application of numeracy
practices to a range of contexts where whole numbers, fractions, decimals and percentages are used.
Students will select the appropriate method or approach required and communicate their ideas. They
should be at ease with performing straightforward calculations both mentally, manually and using
software tools and devices.

Key knowledge
 whole numbers and decimals up to two places

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 place value and reading numbers expressed in digits or words


 multiplication facts and knowledge of factors and multiples
 rounding whole numbers and decimals up to two places
 order of operations
 common fractions and percentages, and their equivalence such as ¼ = 0.25 = 25%
 simple proportions.

Key skills
 demonstrate an understanding of reading numbers, place value and decimal place value,
including rounding to two decimal places
 use the order of operations to solve a range of practical calculations with whole numbers and
common decimals and fractions
 solve problems involving common fractions and decimals, for example half, quarter, third, fifth and
equivalent decimals
 calculate common percentages of numbers, and increase and decrease numbers by common
percentages
 use simple proportions and divide quantities by a simple ratio such as 1 to 2.

Area of Study 2: Shape


In this area of study students will learn to recognise, describe and name common two- and three-
dimensional shapes. They will classify, manipulate, represent and construct common and familiar
shapes in diagrammatical and concrete forms. They will also become familiar with common
characteristics and properties used in classifying shapes.

Key knowledge
 properties and names of two-dimensional shapes and everyday familiar three-dimensional objects
such as regular prisms, for example boxes and cylinders
 simple reflection, rotation and symmetry in relation to everyday familiar shapes
 patterns in, and between, everyday and familiar shapes
 appropriate technologies that create and manipulate simple two-dimensional shapes
 simple scaling in relation to enlargement and reduction such as in plans, diagrams and
photographs.

Key skills
 describe and classify common and familiar two- and three-dimensional shapes, including the use
of appropriate technology
 demonstrate an understanding of reflection, rotation and symmetry of simple familiar shapes
 create common and familiar two- and three-dimensional shapes and describe the relationship
between these, including through the use of technology
 determine and name patterns of common and familiar shapes such as those found in engineering,
architecture and design, for example bridges, buildings, sculptures.

Area of Study 3: Quantity and measures


In this area of study students will develop an understanding of routine and familiar metric quantities
and their units of measurement applied to single- and multi-step measurement tasks. They will
conduct estimations of measurements, undertake routine measurements, perform measurement

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calculations, and convert units within the metric system with the embedded use of different
technologies.

Key knowledge
 common and familiar measures of distance, perimeter, area, volume and capacity (for simple
rectangular based shapes only)
 common and familiar metric units of measurement and conversion between metric units
 common units of time and temperature
 common measurement estimation strategies
 common measurement tools
 appropriate accuracy in measurements.

Key skills
 estimate and measure familiar objects and distances by using measurement tools
 undertake common calculations to determine measurements of distance, perimeter, area, volume
and capacity, related to common two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional objects, using
common units of measurement
 convert with one-step calculations between common units of metric measurement such as
millimetres, centimetres, metres, kilometres, grams, kilograms, millilitres, litres, and degrees
Celsius
 read and interpret units of analogue and digital time and temperature
 perform simple calculations using units of time, including calendar months, weeks, days, hours,
minutes, and seconds.

Area of Study 4: Relationships


In this area of study students will recognise, understand and represent simple patterns of relationship
and change in mathematical terms where it exists in common and familiar contexts and applications.
They should be able to recognise when change is occurring, be able to identify common and simple
mathematical relationships and variables, and apply the most appropriate process or processes to
determine the results of change.

Key knowledge
 common and familiar relationships such as rates of change, $/m, km/hr
 simple, common and familiar algebraic formulae, relationships and algebraic expressions such as
for the area and perimeter of a rectangle, and cost per hour
 standard conventions used in the development, use and writing of simple, everyday algebraic
relationships
 representation and visualisation of change such as tables, simple charts or graphs.

Key skills
 recognise and represent relationships with simple mathematical expressions, or simple pictorial or
graphical representations
 demonstrate simple algebraic substitution with simple formulae to find solutions to everyday
problems
 use and apply rates in familiar situations such as $/m, km/hr
 apply simple formulae to find solutions to everyday problems such as area, amounts or costings.

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Selecting numeracies for Unit 1


All six numeracies must be covered across Units 1 and 2. The order in which this is done and how this
is combined with the underpinning mathematical knowledge and skills, as described in the areas of
study, is decided by the school or teacher. This flexibility is an essential part of an applied learning
approach.

These combinations can therefore be selected based on the needs and interests of the student
cohort, school community, or related vocational and work environment.

In summary, schools and teachers must make their selection of numeracies based on the following
guidelines:

 Each unit must include three of the six numeracies.


 All six numeracies must be covered across Units 1 and 2.
 All four areas of study must be covered across each unit (i.e. eight areas of study in total over two
units).

This table provides an overview for selecting numeracies in Units 1 and 2:

Numeracies Areas of study

Unit 1, Outcome 1

Select three of the following six  Select one or two areas of study to support the chosen numeracy ensuring all
numeracies for Unit 1: four areas of study are covered in the unit
a) Personal numeracy ‒ Area of Study 1: Number
b) Civic numeracy ‒ Area of Study 2: Shape
c) Financial numeracy ‒ Area of Study 3: Quantity and measures
d) Health numeracy ‒ Area of Study 4: Relationships
e) Vocational numeracy
f) Recreational numeracy

Unit 2, Outcome 1

Select the three remaining  Select one or two areas of study to support the chosen numeracy ensuring all
numeracies for Unit 2: four areas of study are covered in the unit
a) Personal numeracy ‒ Area of Study 5: Dimension and direction
b) Civic numeracy ‒ Area of Study 6: Data
c) Financial numeracy ‒ Area of Study 7: Uncertainty
d) Health numeracy ‒ Area of Study 8: Systematics
e) Vocational numeracy
f) Recreational numeracy

Ensure all numeracies have been covered across the two units.

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Connecting the numeracies with the mathematical content in the areas


of study
The following table provides an example of a learning program that covers the four areas of study for
Unit 1.

Unit 1

Numeracy 1. Numeracy 2. Numeracy 3.


E.g. Health E.g. Vocational E.g. Recreational

Areas
1. of
Number 
study
2. Shape 

3. Quantity and
 
measures

4. Relationships 

Outcome 2
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to select, interpret and use the four stages of
the mathematical problem-solving cycle, using a range of both informal and formal mathematical
processes, representations, and conventions relevant to the mathematical key knowledge and key
skills specified in the Areas of Study 1-4, and across the chosen range of numeracies.

Problem-solving cycle
The purpose of Outcome 2 is to enable students to develop their everyday numeracy skills and
practices in order to make sense of their daily personal, civic and vocational lives. Students need to
develop the skills and capabilities to be able to problem-solve, and to use their skills to investigate and
solve a problem where the mathematics is embedded within a real-world context. Outcome 2
describes and outlines a problem-solving cycle that supports students to become more capable
problem solvers, and to use their mathematical skills successfully to become numerate individuals
within the community and in their selected vocations.

Given that the contexts described in Outcome 1 will be the starting point, students need to be guided
through a structured problem-solving cycle to know how to move from the real-world context to the
mathematical world, and to apply their mathematical knowledge to solve the mathematical problem at
hand. Part of solving any such embedded problem is to be able to reflect on, and evaluate the
outcomes, and to then communicate and report on what was done and provide the results.

The problem-solving cycle underpinning the curriculum has four distinct components that include, in
order: identifying the mathematics; acting on and using the mathematics; evaluating and reflecting;
and communicating and reporting on the results.

These four components are represented in the figure below.

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Structure of Outcome 2

The skills and knowledge required to achieve Outcome 2 are organised under four distinct
components to match the problem-solving cycle:

a) Identify the mathematics: recognise, select and interpret the mathematical information
embedded in a real-world context and decide what mathematics to use.

When mathematical problems are embedded within real-world contexts, students need to identify the
essential features to be accommodated when transforming the real-world situation into a
mathematical problem. This requires students to identify and name the mathematics embedded in the
context or scenario and to make decisions about how the task can be best represented and solved
mathematically. Students need to develop a plan of the actions they intend to undertake, including
providing an overview of the scenario and any related background information, and specify the related
mathematical questions of interest, conjectures or hypotheses.

Key knowledge
 the purpose of the task and the question(s) to be posed and answered
 the relevant mathematical information embedded in the selected numeracy context and materials
 the mathematical operation(s), processes and tools needed to solve the problem.

Key skills
 identify, interpret and comprehend a range of everyday mathematical information that is
embedded in familiar and routine materials, texts and tasks where the mathematics content is
fairly explicit or visual with relatively few distractors
 draw on a combination of hands on, contextually appropriate materials, personal experience,
mathematical and prior knowledge to select appropriate solution strategies from the range of
mathematical processes described in the areas of study
 develop a clear mathematical plan, using a combination of formal and informal written
mathematical language and symbols.

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b) Act on and use mathematics: perform mathematical actions and processes in order to complete
a task – this includes the use and application of a range of technologies.

This stage of the problem-solving cycle involves undertaking the mathematical aspects of the task
identified in the first stage. It requires the use of mathematical processes and problem-solving
techniques, facts and procedures to solve the problem, and the selection and use of appropriate tools,
representations and technologies. For example, students may need to undertake measurements;
perform calculations; select and solve equations; make logical deductions from mathematical
assumptions; perform symbolic manipulations; create and extract information from mathematical
tables and graphs; represent and manipulate geometrical objects in 2D and 3D; or analyse data.

Key knowledge
 the appropriate mathematical processes required for completing the numeracy task.
 estimations required prior to completing the numeracy task
 appropriate technology, tools and applications required to complete the numeracy task
 the relevant mathematical actions, processes and calculations required to complete the numeracy
task.

Key skills
 select and use appropriate tools, hand-held devices, computers and technological processes
such as to measure, for example, the dimensions of a window in millimetres (mm) with a tape
measure, or to create a personal weekly budget in a spreadsheet
 Use a blend of personal 'in-the-head' methods, formal pen and paper methods and
digital/technological calculators, software, apps and tools to undertake the required mathematical
actions, processes, calculations and problem-solving process.

Note: This requires the use and application of only one or two steps or processes, or more if they are
related or similar processes.

c) Evaluate and reflect: check and reflect on the mathematical problem-solving processes and
outcomes in relation to the real-world context.

Responses to real-world numeracy tasks, including any mathematical solutions and results,
judgments, decisions or conclusions, require review and critical reflection and evaluation. Any results
should be checked and evaluated against the original situation in terms of its reasonableness and its
relevance to the final solution; with comparisons made against the initial estimates before deciding to
accept the solution and/or make revisions and adjustments before presenting the final solutions. In
cases where decisions or judgments are being made about the solution, other factors might also be
considered, such as social or economic consequences. These processes are often referred to as
contextual judgements.

Key knowledge
 estimations, actions and any calculations required to check if results are as expected
 appropriateness and reasonableness of results from the numeracy task.

Key skills

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 use estimation and personal experience, mathematical and other prior knowledge, to check and
reflect on the results and their reasonableness and appropriateness to the context and task,
adjust results if necessary, and explain why a problem could not be solved if this is the outcome.

Note: Some level of teacher prompting, and support can be provided in relation to reflections on the
outcome and results.

d) Communicate and report: use a combination of informal and formal mathematical


representations to document and report outcomes and results

The results of any numeracy task require a summary of the work to be compiled and developed,
including the presentation and interpretation of the findings from the mathematical activities and
related applications. This stage requires students to prepare a range of representations to
communicate the mathematical results. This will involve both oral and written language, and the use
of formal and informal mathematical visualisations and representations, including the use of a range
of different formats, media or technologies.

Key knowledge
 written mathematical representations used to document and report on the mathematical
processes and the results of the numeracy task
 oral mathematical language used to present and discuss the mathematical processes and the
results of the numeracy task
 a range of different formats, devices or technologies used to represent and document the
numeracy task.

Key skills
 use a combination of both informal and formal written mathematical language and symbols and
general language to document and report on the mathematical and problem-solving process and
results
 use a combination of both informal and formal oral mathematical and general language to present
and discuss the mathematical and problem-solving process and results
 use a combination of both formal and informal symbolism, diagrams, graphs and conventions
relevant to the mathematical knowledge of the level. For example:
 1/100, 12.5%
 km/hr, $/kg
 1.25 m = 1250 mm.

Note: Not all of the key knowledge and skills above are expected to be covered in each numeracy
investigation or task; however, they should be covered at least once across the different numeracy
tasks for each unit.

Outcome 3
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to select and effectively and accurately use the
appropriate mathematical tools and applications chosen from a developing mathematical toolkit
relevant to the key knowledge and key skills specified in the Areas of Study 1-4, and across the
chosen range of numeracies.

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Mathematical toolkit
The purpose of Outcome 3 is for students to develop a mathematical toolkit to use where necessary
as they undertake their numeracy practices, activities and tasks. At the end of Units 1 and 2, students
should be developing their skills of both analogue and digital technologies with the ability to identify
and use a range of appropriate mathematical tools (analogue and digital/technological) to solve and
communicate mathematical problems embedded in practical contexts.

A student’s toolkit should include: existing, traditional tools such as measuring equipment (e.g. tape
measures, rulers, kitchen scales); software applications such as spreadsheets; and a range of new
and emerging devices and applications from across different technologies (e.g. measurement, angle
and level apps available on mobile phones or portable handheld devices). Students should be
developing their skills to transfer their knowledge from one device or application to an unknown one,
with the aim of adapting to emerging technologies into the future. For example, the use of internet
applications (such as measuring and calculation apps) for costing and ordering of materials for an
onsite job.

Key knowledge
In undertaking their numeracy tasks and activities as part of Outcomes 1 and 2, students should
demonstrate understanding and knowledge of the following:

 contemporary technological and online and digital media, including software and applications
based on computers, tablets, calculators and hand-held devices and the relevance,
appropriateness of their use and application
 a range of familiar analogue and digital tools that may include tools such as manipulatives, clocks,
tape measures, tools of trade and industry
 a range of digital tools that may include mobile technology, software (including spreadsheets) and
applications
 the conventions and use of such analogue and digital tools appropriate to the individual,
community and workplace, and comparisons between technologies
 the conventions and language for the representation of mathematical and statistical information,
objects and processes, using different technologies and digital media
 the numerical, graphical, symbolic, geometric and statistical functionalities of this range of
technologies
 the conditions and settings for a given purpose, and for appropriate application of a given
technology and its functionality
 online safety when using technologies.

Key skills
 use a range of analogue and digital/technological tools and devices to carry out tasks and derive
results
 use technology to carry out computations and analysis
 use technology to visualise and represent information, such as to produce diagrams, tables,
charts, infographics and graphs which model situations and solve practical problems
 use technology to help interpret and communicate the results of a numeracy task
 identify accuracy and error with different technologies
 make decisions regarding inputs into technology and discuss the outputs of technology
 reflect on the use of tools and technology in relation to comparing estimates to results

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 reflect on any tools and technologies used and the outcomes obtained relative to personal,
contextual and real-world implications, appropriateness and reasonableness.

Satisfactory completion
The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on whether the student has demonstrated the
set of outcomes specified for the unit. Teachers should use a variety of assessment tasks and tools
that provide a range of opportunities for students to demonstrate the key knowledge and key skills in
the outcomes for satisfactory completion.

The areas of study, including the key knowledge and key skills listed for the outcomes, should be
used for course design and the development of learning activities and assessment tools. Assessment
must be part of the regular teaching and learning program and should be completed mainly under
teacher supervision and within a limited timeframe.

All assessment tools for Units 1 and 2 are school-based. Procedures for assessment of levels of
achievement in Units 1 and 2 are a matter for school decision.

The VCAA publishes VCE VM Support materials, which includes advice on the design of assessment
tools including assessment rubrics.

Assessment Tools
Assessment tools are used to collect evidence to make a judgement as to whether the outcomes have
been met. An assessment tool is a method to collect evidence on the standard reached by students
and can be a task or a teacher observation using a checklist.

The following table provides the assessment requirements for the outcomes in Unit 1 and will assist
teachers in determining the student attainment of the standard.

Outcome Assessment tasks

Outcome 1 Assessment tasks should provide opportunities for practical


On completion of this unit, the student should be able to application of the outcome.
identify, use and apply the mathematical key knowledge The structure of the Numeracy study is such that the
and skills from the four areas of study, across the specific demonstration of achievement of Outcomes 1, 2 and 3
Numeracies. should be based on the student’s performance on a selection
of the following assessment tasks:
Outcome 2
 Investigations and projects. For example, a diary
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to
(‘week in the life of me’), outlining budgets (pay rates
identify and use the mathematical problem-solving cycle
and tax), travel (how do I get places), shopping (best
in an applied learning context, relevant to the
deals).
mathematical key skills and knowledge reflected in the
areas of study and across the Numeracies.  Multimedia presentation, poster or report. For example,
an outline of food requirements for an athlete preparing
Outcome 3 for their sport that includes nutrition, recipes, calories
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to required and exerted, energy requirements, and
identify and use the appropriate mathematical tools. measurements including distances.
 Portfolio. For example, students may prepare job
interview questions and responses to include details on
scheduling an appointment, planning what resources
are needed for transforming a house to renewables

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Outcome Assessment tasks

using data and tables, and understanding cost


calculations, or unpacking statistics related to climate
change.

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Unit 2
In Unit 2 students will develop and extend their numeracy practices to make sense of their personal, public
and vocational lives. They will develop mathematical skills with consideration of their local, community,
national and global environments and contexts, and identification and appropriate selection and use of
relevant technologies.

These units provide students with the fundamental mathematical knowledge, skills, understandings and
dispositions to solve problems in real contexts for a range of workplace, personal, further learning and
community settings relevant to contemporary society.

Areas of study
There are four areas of study for Unit 2:

 Area of Study 5: Dimension and direction


 Area of Study 6: Data
 Area of Study 7: Uncertainty
 Area of Study 8: Systematics

The areas of study cover a range of different mathematical knowledge and skills that are expected to be
used and applied across the three outcomes.

Selecting the areas of study


Students will cover the eight areas of study at least once across Units 1 and 2.

Areas of study are to be selected to support the teaching and learning for each of the six numeracies, as
appropriate to the situations and contextual problems being solved. The order in which the areas of study
are taught, and how they are combined with other areas of study, is decided by the school and the
teachers. This flexibility is an essential aspect of an applied learning approach.

Combinations can be based on the needs and interests of the student cohort and its community, and
related vocational and work requirements.

Schools and teachers must make their selection of the areas of study based on the following guidelines:

 Each unit must include three numeracies.


 All six numeracies must be covered across Units 1 and 2.
 Select either one or two areas of study to support each selected numeracy.
 Select three numeracies for each unit.

Outcomes
For Units 1 and 2 the student is required to demonstrate achievement of three outcomes. As a set these
outcomes are required to encompass all eight areas of study across the two units.

At the end of Units 1 and 2, students should be able to select the appropriate method or approach required,
attempt a series of operations or tasks, and communicate their ideas in multiple formats, including verbal

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and written form. Students should also be at ease with straightforward calculations manually and/or using
technology.

Outcome 1
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to select, interpret and use the mathematical key
knowledge and key skills from the four Areas of Study 5-8, embedded in familiar, routine and some less
familiar contexts across the chosen range of numeracies.

Numeracy in context
The purpose of Outcome 1 is to support and enable students to develop a range of different numeracy
skills and capabilities in order to make sense of their daily personal, public and vocational lives.

Outcome 1 describes the range of contexts that are the starting points and the focus for developing the
student’s numeracy and mathematical skills. These six numeracies cover personal, financial, civic, health,
recreational and vocational contexts where a range of mathematical skills are situated and embedded.

The six numeracies are intended to be selected to best meet the needs and interests of the students and
the school community, and should be mapped to the relevant and appropriate areas of study depending on
the underpinning mathematical knowledge and skills required. The different numeracies can take on a
more vocational focus if appropriate. For example, financial numeracy could take as its focus vocations
such the financial or business sectors, or health numeracy could focus on working in the health, community
or medical sectors.

Structure of Outcome 1
Outcome 1 is framed by six different numeracies. Each unit should cover three of the numeracies.

 Choose the remaining three of the six numeracies.


 All six numeracies must be covered across Units 1 and 2.
 Select either one or two areas of study to support each selected numeracy.

a) Personal numeracy relates to the mathematical requirements for personal organisational matters
involving numbers, data, money, time and travel.

Personal numeracy relates to understanding, using and interpreting numerical and mathematical
information presented and embedded in different formats and media, to undertake personally relevant
activities in familiar, routine and some less familiar situations.

The understanding, use and interpretation of personal numeracy can be drawn from, but is not limited
to, the following examples:

 personal relevant statistical data and information embedded in print and digital media
 personal and home/family travel tasks such as driving, road safety, holidays, getting to school or
work, or family visits
 scheduling, timetabling and reorganising personal work and travel arrangements
 direction and locational materials (such as printed and online maps, location diagrams for buildings
and GPS displays) and planning, describing and following oral and written directions such as tours,
visits, holidays and excursions
 planning a family or cultural event, such as trips to sites of cultural significance, or a BBQ.

b) Civic numeracy relates to participating in civic life through knowing how to stay informed, and
understanding government, political and social data, information and processes.

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Civic numeracy includes understanding, interpreting and reviewing statistical and quantitative
information presented by governments and in news and media reports, and other data-related sources
to meet the demands and challenges of life at local, state, national and global levels. It can incorporate
the understanding, use and interpretation of quantitative and statistical information.

The understanding, use and interpretation of civic numeracy can be drawn from, but is not limited to,
the following examples:

 political or government-related information and data, including advertising, community information,


elections and voting
 information and data on social issues such as human rights, animal rights, cultural and gender
issues
 environmental issues from multiple perspectives including First Nations peoples’ perspectives,
such as land management, fire management, waterways, wildlife
 local community environmental issues such as climate change, land degradation, pollution
 statistical monitoring of people’s lives, their use of devices and any actions made based on such
data
 commonly reported economic state and national data and trends including unemployment rates,
underemployment, participation rates, gender pay gaps, inflation and official interest rates.

c) Financial numeracy relates to understanding and undertaking financial transactions and making
informed judgments and decisions regarding the use and management of money.

Financial numeracy involves managing relevant personal, social or work-related financial costs,
charges, income and expenditure.

The understanding, use and interpretation of financial numeracy can be drawn from, but is not limited
to, the following examples:

 comparing and analysing performance or costs and charges over time between different bills and
charges, utilities, or providers such as petrol prices, household item prices
 managing and adjusting personal and family budgets using technology or software applications
 chance and likelihood as they relate to gambling, such as sporting odds
 data, trends, predictions, and risks related to financial issues and factors, such as housing prices,
costs of living, CPI, wages and salaries
 planning and costing a holiday including locations and holiday planning apps such as airlines
 data and trends related to government financial systems such as taxation, GST, superannuation.

d) Health numeracy relates to accessing, understanding and using mathematical information to make
decisions and act in the interests of personal and community health and well-being.

Health numeracy involves being able to use mathematics to manage one’s own health, safety and
well-being, alongside being aware of such issues from a community or work-related perspective.

The understanding, use and interpretation of health numeracy can be drawn from, but is not limited to,
the following examples:

 nutrition or fitness, including setting goals, tracking data and understanding the issues
 data and trends about social health issues such as drinking, safe driving, obesity, drugs
 health and safety data at work such as accident types, rates and causes, audits of workplace
chemicals

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 publicly available medical and health information, data and advice, for example in relation to
maintaining a healthy lifestyle including healthy eating/diet, exercise or diseases and pandemics,
including long term chance and likelihood
 examining differing access to health services in rural and remote areas, and considering the impact
on First Nations communities
 publicly available medical and health information, data and advice, for example in relation to
maintaining a healthy lifestyle including healthy eating/diet, exercise or diseases and pandemics
 health and safety related data, statistics and trends related to potential accidents and use of
chemicals.

e) Vocational numeracy relates to effectively participating in the workplace and managing the demands
of work and/or vocational training.

Vocational or work-related numeracy relates to undertaking the required tasks and activities in a work-
related context, such as using different workplace tools, applications and processes/systems, following
and giving directions, participating in quality assurance processes and data collection, and reading
workplace documents and information.

The understanding, use and interpretation of vocational numeracy can be drawn from, but is not
limited to, the following examples:

 workforce comparisons from past practice (pre-digital) to current (digital), including time to
complete tasks and effort involved
 workplace occupational health and safety related data, statistics and trends related to workplace
accidents and trends
 reading or creating instructions, documents or reports related to workplace tasks and data such as
giving or following workplace directions, collecting, collating and analysing workplace data
 occupational health and safety or quality assurance data requirements
 workplace specific plans and diagrams such as the location of buildings and equipment, hazards,
safety and escape plans
 recording information and data or following and giving directions.

f) Recreational numeracy relates to the mathematical aspects of recreational activities including but not
limited to arts, sport and social media.

Recreational numeracy encompasses not only physical exercise and sport, but also aspects of
personal time spent on non-work activities such as indoor and outdoor pursuits, arts, social media, and
interests such as gaming. It also covers community, cultural or religious activities.

The understanding, use and interpretation of recreational numeracy can be drawn from, but is not
limited to, the following examples:

 statistical and data collection measures around personal or community recreational activities and
events
 statistical information and data on the use, and overuse of recreational activities, social media and
associated dangers
 statistical information, data and trends about sports and sportspeople and their performances
 chance and likelihood as they relate to gambling, such as sporting odds and chances of teams
winning or losing
 activities that require skills in navigation such as orienteering, sailing, bushwalking, bike riding
 planning a trip or holiday using directional and locational materials, such as printed and online
maps, GPS displays.

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Areas of study

Area of Study 5: Dimension and direction


In this area of study students will develop an understanding of space, direction and location in relation to
common landmarks and key compass directions. They will give and follow directions to locations based on
digital and printed maps and diagrams. The study of dimension also includes common and routine angles
with degrees and an awareness of the one-, two- and three-dimensions of space.

Key knowledge
 location and direction in relation to everyday, familiar objects and landmarks
 location and direction in relation to everyday, familiar maps and technologies
 everyday, familiar oral and written instructions for moving to specified locations
 everyday angles such as 45, 90, 180 and 360 degrees.

Key skills
 find and locate places of interest on maps and describe location in relation to other objects and
landmarks using appropriate maps or technology
 determine and give or follow everyday straightforward instructions to move between familiar locations
 identify everyday compass directions such as N, S, W, E, NE, SE
 identify and demonstrate an understanding of everyday angles such as 45, 90, 180 and 360 degrees
 understand where an object is in space using one-, two- and three-dimensions and everyday familiar
language such as up, down, left, right, in front, behind to describe position and location in space.

Area of Study 6: Data


Data can be found in everyday life, workplaces and society. In this area of study, students will collect,
represent and undertake common analyses of data to look for patterns in data and derive meaning from
data sets located within familiar and routine contexts. Data should be examined for comparison and
analysis. Students should draw conclusions from the data and be confident in describing general patterns
and trends.

Key knowledge
 simple data collection tools and processes
 display of data with commonly used tables and graphs, including use of axes and simple scales
 simple measures of spread, such as range and mean
 interpretation and description of familiar and simple data sets and their displays.

Key skills
 collect, collate and organise familiar and simple data sets, and display these choosing and using the
most appropriate format, including axes and simple scales
 choose and find simple common measures of spread for contextual data sets, for example mean, and
range of data
 identify key facts from tables and graphs
 read and interpret results from familiar and simple data presented in both graph and table form,
including describing general patterns and trends.

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Area of Study 7: Uncertainty


In this area of study students will explore the basic concepts and everyday language of chance. They will
make mathematical predictions about the likelihood of common and familiar events occurring or not
occurring. They will also consider conclusions from familiar known events or data and make very simple
inferences.

Key knowledge
 likelihood of common and familiar events or occurrences happening
 common and familiar language of chance and its relationship to common numerical values associated
with chance, such as ‘even chance’ = 0.5 or 50%
 simple and familiar unconditional probability events with randomness and chance
 simple inferencing from likelihood estimates to inform decision making in relation to common and
familiar events such as rolling dice, or spinners.

Key skills
 estimate and identify likelihood of common and familiar events occurring using simple fractions,
1 1 1
decimals or percentages such as , , , 0.5, 50%
2 3 5
 identify sample spaces or options for common and familiar events or occurrences
 recognise that the likelihood of events occurring can differ, and develop an understanding of how to
reduce or increase the likelihood of an event occurring.

Area of Study 8: Systematics


In this area of study students will understand the inputs and outputs of technology that can be used in
everyday lives for the purposes of planning, collecting, sorting or categorising common and familiar
quantitative or mathematical data and information. Students will choose a number of inputs of familiar data,
compare the outputs and results, and understand the representations and any summary information
derived from the technology.

Key knowledge
 common and familiar information and data inputs and outputs
 common and familiar computational data collection tools and applications
 collating, organising, categorising, planning, scheduling and table creation of common and familiar
information and data using technology.

Key skills
This area of study includes the use of technology (such as spreadsheets, software, mobile technologies,
and apps) to:

 create tables to collate, organise and input or record common and familiar data and information
 arrange and sort simple and familiar data and information
 use systems to plan and schedule common and familiar actions
 read inputs and interpret outputs such as from interactive maps, public transport timetables, online
calculators/applications/planners
 adjust variables of inputs to optimise outputs and solutions for common and familiar situations and
contexts.

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Selecting numeracies for Units 1 and 2


All six numeracies must be covered across Units 1 and 2. The order in which this is done and how this is
combined with the underpinning mathematical knowledge and skills, as described in the areas of study, is
decided by the school or teacher. This flexibility is an essential part of an applied learning approach.

These combinations can therefore be selected based on the needs and interests of the student cohort,
school community, or related vocational and work environment.

In summary, schools and teachers must make their selection of numeracies based on the following
guidelines:

 Each unit must include three of the six numeracies.


 All six numeracies must be covered across Units 1 and 2.
 All eight areas of study must be covered across Units 1 and 2.

This table provides an overview for selecting numeracies in Units 1 and 2:

Numeracies Areas of study

Unit 1, Outcome 1

Select three of the following six  Select one or two areas of study to support the chosen numeracy ensuring all
numeracies for Unit 1: four areas of study are covered in the unit.
a) Personal numeracy ‒ Area of Study 1: Number
b) Civic numeracy ‒ Area of Study 2: Shape
c) Financial numeracy ‒ Area of Study 3: Quantity and measures
d) Health numeracy ‒ Area of Study 4: Relationships
e) Vocational numeracy
f) Recreational numeracy

Unit 2, Outcome 1

Select the three remaining  Select one or two areas of study to support the chosen numeracy ensuring all
numeracies for Unit 2: four areas of study are covered in the unit
a) Personal numeracy ‒ Area of Study 5: Dimension and direction
b) Civic numeracy ‒ Area of Study 6: Data
c) Financial numeracy ‒ Area of Study 7: Uncertainty
d) Health numeracy ‒ Area of Study 8: Systematics
e) Vocational numeracy
f) Recreational numeracy

Ensure all numeracies have been covered across the two units.

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Connecting the numeracies with the mathematical content in the areas of


study
The following table provides an example of a learning program that covers the eight areas of study across
Units 1 and 2.

Unit 1

Numeracy 1 Numeracy 2 Numeracy 3


E.g. Health E.g. Vocational E.g. Recreational

Areas
1. ofNumber 
study
2. Shape 

3. Quantity and  
measures

4. Relationships 

Unit 2

Numeracy 4 Numeracy 5 Numeracy 6


E.g. Financial E.g. Civic E.g. Personal

5. Dimension and 
Areas of study
direction

6. Data  

7. Uncertainty 

8. Systematics 

Outcome 2
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to select, interpret and use the four stages of the
mathematical problem-solving cycle, using a range of both informal and formal mathematical processes,
representations, and conventions relevant to the mathematical key knowledge and key skills specified in
Areas of Study 5-8, and across the chosen range of numeracies.

Problem-solving cycle
The purpose of Outcome 2 is to enable students to develop their everyday numeracy skills and practices to
make sense of their daily personal, civic and vocational lives. Students need to develop the skills and
capabilities to be able to problem-solve, and to use their skills to investigate and solve a problem where the
mathematics is embedded within a real-world context. Outcome 2 describes and outlines a problem-solving
cycle that supports students to become more capable problem solvers, and to use their mathematical skills
successfully to become numerate individuals within the community and in their selected vocations.

Given that the contexts described in Outcome 1 will be the starting point, students need to be taken
through a structured problem-solving cycle to know how to move from the real-world context to the
mathematical world, and to apply their mathematical knowledge to solve the mathematical problem at

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hand. Part of solving any such embedded problem is to be able to reflect upon and evaluate the outcomes,
and to then communicate and report on what was done and the results.

The problem-solving cycle underpinning the curriculum has four distinct components which include, in
order: identifying the mathematics; acting on and using the mathematics; evaluating and reflecting; and
communicating and reporting on the results.

These four components are represented in the figure below.

Structure of Outcome 2

The skills and knowledge required to achieve Outcome 2 are organised under four distinct components to
match the problem-solving cycle:

a) Identify the mathematics: recognise, select and interpret the mathematical information embedded in a
real-world context and decide what mathematics to use.

When mathematical problems are embedded within real-world contexts, students need to identify the
essential features to be accommodated when transforming the real-world situation into a mathematical
problem. This requires students to identify and name the mathematics embedded in the context or scenario
and to make decisions about how the task can be best represented and solved mathematically. Students
need to develop a plan of the actions they intend to undertake, including providing an overview of the
scenario and any related background information, and specify the related mathematical questions of
interest, conjectures or hypotheses.

Key knowledge
 the purpose of the task and the question(s) to be posed and answered
 the relevant mathematical information embedded in the selected numeracy context and materials.
 the mathematical operation(s), processes and tools needed to solve the problem.

Key skills
 identify, interpret and comprehend a range of everyday mathematical information that is embedded in
familiar and routine materials, texts and tasks where the mathematics content is fairly explicit or visual
with relatively few distractors

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 draw on a combination of hands-on, contextually appropriate materials, personal experience,


mathematical and prior knowledge to select appropriate solution strategies from the range of
mathematical processes described in the areas of study
 develop a clear mathematical plan, using a combination of formal and informal written mathematical
language and symbols.

b) Act on and use mathematics: perform mathematical actions and processes in order to complete a
task – this includes the use and application of a range of technologies

This stage of the problem-solving cycle involves undertaking the mathematical aspects of the task identified
in the first stage. It requires the use of mathematical processes and problem-solving techniques, facts and
procedures to solve the problem, and the selection and use of appropriate tools, representations and
technologies. For example, students may need to undertake measurements; perform calculations; select
and solve equations; make logical deductions from mathematical assumptions; perform symbolic
manipulations; create and extract information from mathematical tables and graphs; represent and
manipulate geometrical objects in 2D and 3D; or analyse data.

Key knowledge
 the appropriate mathematical processes required for completing the numeracy task
 estimations required prior to completing the numeracy task
 appropriate technology, tools and applications required to complete the numeracy task
 the relevant mathematical actions, processes and calculations required to complete the numeracy task.

Key skills
 select and use appropriate tools, hand-held devices, computers and technological processes such as
to measure, for example, the dimensions of a window in mm with a tape measure, or to create a
personal weekly budget in a spreadsheet
 use a blend of personal 'in-the-head' methods, formal pen and paper methods and digital/technological
calculators, software, apps and tools to undertake the required mathematical actions, processes,
calculations and problem-solving process.

Note: This requires the use and application of only one or two steps or processes, or more if they are
related or similar processes.

c) Evaluate and reflect: check and reflect on the mathematical problem-solving processes and outcomes
in relation to the real-world context

Responses to real-world numeracy tasks, including any mathematical solutions and results, judgements,
decisions or conclusions, require review and critical reflection and evaluation. Any results should be
checked and evaluated against the original situation in terms of its reasonableness and its relevance to the
final solution; with comparisons made against the initial estimates before deciding to accept the solution
and/or make revisions and adjustments before presenting the final solutions. In cases where decisions or
judgements are being made about the solution, other factors might also be considered, such as social or
economic consequences. These processes are often referred to as contextual judgements.

Key knowledge
 estimations, actions and any calculations required to check if results are as expected
 appropriateness and reasonableness of results from the numeracy task.

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Key skills

 use estimation and personal experience, mathematical and other prior knowledge, to check and reflect
on the results and their reasonableness and appropriateness to the context and task, adjust results if
necessary, and explain why a problem could not be solved if this is the outcome.

Note: Some level of teacher prompting, and support can be provided in relation to reflections on the
outcome and results.

d) Communicate and report: use a combination of informal and formal mathematical representations to
document and report outcomes and results

The results of any numeracy task require a summary of the work to be compiled and developed, including
the presentation and interpretation of the findings from the mathematical activities and related applications.
This stage requires students to prepare a range of representations to communicate the mathematical
results. This will involve both oral and written language, and the use of formal and informal mathematical
visualisations and representations, including the use of a range of different formats, media or technologies.

Key knowledge
 written mathematical representations used to document and report on the mathematical processes and
the results of the numeracy task
 oral mathematical language used to present and discuss the mathematical processes and the results of
the numeracy task
 a range of different formats, devices or technologies used to represent and document the numeracy
task.

Key skills
 use a combination of both informal and formal written mathematical language and symbols and general
language to document and report on the mathematical and problem-solving process and results
 use a combination of both informal and formal oral mathematical and general language to present and
discuss the mathematical and problem-solving process and results
 use a combination of both formal and informal symbolism, diagrams, graphs and conventions relevant
to the mathematical knowledge of the level. For example:
 1/100, 12.5%
 km/hr, $/kg
 1.25 m = 1250 mm.

Note: Not all of the key knowledge and skills above are expected to be covered in each numeracy
investigation or task; however, they should be covered at least once across the different numeracy tasks
for each unit.

Outcome 3
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to select and effectively and accurately use the
appropriate mathematical tools and applications chosen from a developing mathematical toolkit relevant to
the key knowledge and key skills specified in the Areas of Study 5-8, and across the chosen range of
numeracies.

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Mathematical toolkit
The purpose of Outcome 3 is for students to develop a mathematical toolkit to use where necessary as
they undertake their numeracy practices, activities and tasks. At the end of Units 1 and 2, students should
be developing their skills of both analogue and digital technologies with the ability to identify and use a
range of appropriate mathematical tools (analogue and digital/technological) to solve and communicate
mathematical problems embedded in practical contexts.

A student’s toolkit should include: existing, traditional tools such as measuring equipment (e.g. tape
measures, rulers, kitchen scales); software applications such as spreadsheets; and a range of new and
emerging devices and applications from across different technologies (e.g. measurement, angle and level
apps available on mobile phones or portable handheld devices). Students should be developing their skills
to transfer their knowledge from one device or application to an unknown one with the aim of adapting to
emerging technologies into the future. For example, the use of internet applications (such as measuring
and calculation apps) for costing and ordering of materials for an onsite job.

Key knowledge
 contemporary technological and online and digital media, including software and applications based on
computers, tablets, calculators and hand-held devices and the relevance, appropriateness of their use
and application
 a range of familiar analogue and digital tools that may include tools such as manipulatives, clocks, tape
measures, tools of trade and industry
 a range of digital tools that may include mobile technology, software (including spreadsheets) and
applications
 the conventions and use of such analogue and digital tools appropriate to the individual, community
and workplace, and comparisons between technologies
 the conventions and language for the representation of mathematical and statistical information,
objects and processes, using different technologies and digital media
 the numerical, graphical, symbolic, geometric and statistical functionalities of this range of technologies
 the conditions and settings for a given purpose, and for appropriate application of a given technology
and its functionality
 online safety when using technologies.

Key skills
 use a range of analogue and digital/technological tools and devices to carry out tasks and derive
results
 use technology to carry out computations and analysis
 use technology to visualise and represent information, such as to produce diagrams, tables, charts,
infographics, and graphs that model situations and solve practical problems
 use technology to help interpret and communicate the results of a numeracy task
 identify accuracy and error with different technologies
 make decisions regarding inputs into technology and discuss the outputs of technology
 reflect on the use of tools and technology in relation to comparing estimates to results
 reflect on any tools and technologies used and the outcomes obtained relative to personal, contextual
and real-world implications, appropriateness and reasonableness.

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Satisfactory completion
The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on whether the student has demonstrated the set
of outcomes specified for the unit. Teachers should use a variety of assessment tasks and tools that
provide a range of opportunities for students to demonstrate the key knowledge and key skills in the
outcomes for satisfactory completion.

The areas of study, including the key knowledge and key skills listed for the outcomes, should be used for
course design and the development of learning activities and assessment tools. Assessment must be part
of the regular teaching and learning program and should be completed mainly under teacher supervision
and within a limited timeframe.

All assessment tools for Units 1 and 2 are school-based. Procedures for assessment of levels of
achievement in Units 1 and 2 are a matter for school decision.

The VCAA publishes VCE VM Numeracy Support materials, which includes advice on the design of
assessment tools including assessment rubrics.

Assessment tools
Assessment tools are used to collect evidence to make a judgement as to whether the outcomes have
been met. An Assessment tool is a method to collect evidence on the standard reached by students and
can be a task or a teacher observation using a checklist.

The following table provides the assessment requirements for the outcomes in Unit 2 and will assist
teachers in determining the student attainment of the standard.

Outcome Assessment tasks

Outcome 1 Assessment tasks should provide opportunities for practical application of


On completion of this unit, the student should be the outcome.
able to use and apply the mathematical key The structure of the Numeracy study sees that the demonstration of
knowledge and skills from the four areas of study, achievement of Outcomes 1, 2 and 3 should be based on the student’s
across the specified Numeracies. performance on a selection of the following assessment tasks:

Outcome 2  Investigations and projects. For example, a diary (‘week in the life of
me’), outlining budgets (pay rates and tax), travel (how do I get places),
On completion of this unit, the student should be
shopping (best deals).
able to use and apply the mathematical problem-
solving cycle in an applied learning context,  Multimedia presentation, poster or report. For example, an outline of
relevant to the mathematical key skills and food requirements for an athlete preparing for their sport including
knowledge reflected in the areas of study and nutrition, recipes, calories required and exerted, energy requirements,
across the Numeracies. and measurements including distances.
 Portfolio. For example, students may prepare job interview questions
Outcome 3 and responses to include details on scheduling an appointment,
On completion of this unit, the student should be planning what resources are needed for transforming a house to
able to identify, select and apply a wider range of renewables using data and tables, and understanding cost
appropriate mathematical tools. calculations, or unpacking statistics related to climate change.

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Unit 3
In Unit 3 students further develop and enhance their numeracy practices to make sense of their personal,
public and vocational lives. Students extend their mathematical skills with consideration of their local,
community, national and global environments and contexts, and the use and evaluation of appropriate
technologies.

These units provide students with a broad range of mathematical knowledge, skills and understanding to
solve problems in real contexts for a range of workplace, personal, further learning and community settings
relevant to contemporary society.

The progression of learning is evident in Units 3 and 4 with the development of more complex numeracy
and mathematical skills and knowledge, drawing on the knowledge gained from Units 1 and 2.

Areas of study
There are four areas of study in Unit 3:

 Area of Study 1: Number


 Area of Study 2: Shape
 Area of Study 3: Quantity and measures
 Area of Study 4: Relationships.

The areas of study cover a range of different mathematical knowledge and skills that are expected to be
used and applied across the three outcomes.

Outcomes
For Units 3 and 4 the student is required to demonstrate achievement of three outcomes. As a set these
outcomes are required to encompass all eight areas of study across the two units.

At the end of Units 3 and 4, students should be able to select the appropriate method or approach required,
attempt a series of operations or tasks, and communicate their ideas in multiple formats, including verbal
and written form. At the end of Units 3 and 4, students should be able to select the appropriate method or
approach required, attempt a series of operations or tasks, and communicate their ideas in multiple
formats, including verbal and written form. Students should be at ease with a range of calculations and
mathematical processes both manually and/or using technology. They should be able to evaluate and
critically reflect on the outcomes and results of their numeracy tasks and investigations and be aware of
any real-world implications and consequences. They should be able to evaluate and critically reflect on the
outcomes and results of their numeracy tasks and investigations and be aware of any real-world
implications and consequences.

Outcome 1
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to extract, evaluate and apply the mathematical key
knowledge and key skills from the four Areas of Study 1-4, embedded in a range of routine, non-routine,
unfamiliar and some specialised contexts across the chosen range of numeracies.

Numeracy in context

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The purpose of Outcome 1 is to support and enable students to use, justify, and formulate a range of
different numeracy skills and capabilities in order to make sense of their daily personal, public and
vocational lives.

Outcome 1 describes the range of contexts that are the focus for undertaking the numeracy and
mathematical skills. These six numeracies cover personal, financial, civic, health, recreational and
vocational contexts where a range of mathematical skills are situated and embedded.

The six numeracies described are intended to be selected to best meet the needs and interests of the
students and the school community, and should be mapped to the relevant and appropriate areas of study
depending on the underpinning mathematical knowledge and skills required. The different numeracies can
take on a more vocational focus if appropriate. For example, financial numeracy could take as its focus
vocations such as the financial or business sectors, or health numeracy could focus on working in the
health, community or medical sectors.

Structure of Outcome 1
Outcome 1 is framed by six different numeracies:

 Choose three of the six numeracies.


 All six numeracies must be covered across Units 3 and 4.
 Select either one or two areas of study to support each selected numeracy.

a) Personal numeracy relates to the mathematical requirements for personal organisational matters
involving numbers, data, money, time and travel.

Personal numeracy relates to understanding, using and interpreting numerical and mathematical
information presented and embedded in different formats and media, to undertake personally relevant
activities in a range of routine, non-routine, unfamiliar and some specialised situations.

The understanding, use and interpretation of personal numeracy can be drawn from, but is not limited
to, the following examples:

 numerical information embedded in printed and digital media, including monetary values
 planning and undertaking a BBQ, family event, trips to sites of cultural significance
 personal and home/family day-to-day tasks such as cooking, gardening, sport, travel
 planning a class excursion or event including costs and logistics and complexities
 savings related activities such as comparing prices with different discounts and payment deals,
calculating and reviewing unit prices, or calculating and comparing fuel economy rates and costs
for cars.

b) Civic numeracy relates to participating in civic life through knowing how to stay informed, and
understanding government, political and social data, information and processes.

Civic numeracy includes understanding, interpreting and evaluating statistical and quantitative
information presented by governments and in news and media reports, and other data-related sources
to meet the demands and challenges of life at local, state, national and global levels. It can incorporate
the understanding, use and interpretation of quantitative and statistical information.

The understanding, use and interpretation of civic numeracy can be drawn from, but is not limited to,
the following examples:

 political or government-related information, including advertising, elections and voting


 managing personal social responsibilities and obligations

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 environmental issues from multiple perspectives including First Nations peoples’ perspectives,
such as land management, fire management, waterways, wildlife
 state, national and global social and environmental issues such as climate change, human rights,
animal rights, cultural sites
 economic data including unemployment rates, underemployment, participation rates, inflation and
official interest rates.

c) Financial numeracy relates to understanding and undertaking financial transactions and making
informed judgments and decisions regarding the use and management of money.

Financial numeracy involves managing relevant personal, social or work-related financial costs,
charges, income and expenditure.

The understanding, use and interpretation of financial numeracy can be drawn from, but is not limited
to, the following examples:

 personal money management such as banking, monitoring debit and credit transactions, and
keeping track of money
 online financial services such as mobile banking, Medicare and MyGov services
 occupational income and expenses, including work-related budgets, overtime and penalty rates
 sales based commissions, including fixed component and percentage commission, and
comparisons
 government financial systems such as taxation, GST, student loans, superannuation and Medicare
 calculations for allowances, such as travel, uniform and vehicle use
 utility and other relevant personal or family bills and charges, and comparing providers
 personal loans such as car loans, payday loans, buy now pay later services and store credit, use of
online interest calculators
 making informed decisions about credit, including interest, minimum repayments, frequency of
repayments, transacting safely online and via apps, and avoiding scams
 short- and long-term costs of purchases on oneself, family or communities, and the planet, for
example evaluating special deals, buying new versus second-hand, buying ethically versus sweat-
shopped.

d) Health numeracy relates to accessing, understanding and using mathematical information to make
decisions and act in the interests of health, healthcare and well-being.

Health numeracy involves being able to use mathematics to manage one’s personal health, safety and
well-being, alongside being aware of such issues from a community or work-related perspective.

The understanding, use and interpretation of health numeracy can be drawn from, but is not limited to,
the following examples:

 nutrition or fitness, including setting goals and understanding issues such as the relationships
between lifestyle and disease
 social health issues such as drinking, safe driving, obesity, drugs
 health and safety at work such as accident types, rates and causes, audits of workplace chemicals
and comparison with home-based chemicals
 medical information within a hospital/doctor setting such as typical blood pressure, heart rate,
respiration rate, body temperature
 publicly available medical and health information and advice, for example in relation to maintaining
a healthy and safe lifestyle including healthy eating/diet, exercise or diseases and pandemics
 personal medical care, such as the use and dosages of medications, including scheduling
 health and safety matters related to potential accidents and use of chemicals

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 health care costs, including Medicare rebates and surcharge, comparing and using private health
insurance at different ages and stages of life such as single, coupled, family, uncoupled, elderly.

e) Vocational numeracy relates to effectively participating in the workplace and managing the demands
of work and/or vocational training.

Vocational or work-related numeracy relates to undertaking the required tasks and activities in a work-
related context, such as using different workplace measurements, tools, applications and
processes/systems, following and giving directions, participating in quality assurance processes and
data collection, and reading workplace documents and information.

The understanding, use and interpretation of vocational numeracy can be drawn from, but is not
limited to, the following examples:

 workforce comparisons from past practice (pre-digital) to current (digital), including time to
complete tasks and effort involved
 reading, following or creating instructions and documents related to workplace tasks such as phone
numbers, ratios to mix chemicals or for handling hazardous chemicals or substances, including
interpreting Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
 occupational health and safety or quality assurance requirements
 workplace specific plans, diagrams, formulas, proportions, rates and ratios
 different technological (digital or analogue) measuring and processing devices, tools and
applications
 tolerances and levels of accuracy and the implications of incorrect applications or mixing of
chemicals.

f) Recreational numeracy relates to the mathematical aspects of recreational activities including, but
not limited to arts, sport and social media.

Recreational numeracy encompasses not only physical exercise and sport, but also aspects of
personal time spent on non-work activities such as indoor and outdoor pursuits, arts, social media, and
interests such as gaming. It also covers community, cultural or religious activities.

The understanding, use and interpretation of recreational numeracy can be drawn from, but is not
limited to, the following examples:

 the planning of an activity or event including costings, steps and processes


 comparison of planning and costs of different party venues and events, such as for a birthday party
or cultural celebration
 traditional and modern games including games played by First Nations peoples and other cultural
groups across different regions within Australia
 dimensions and specifications of community recreation areas, such as the size of a netball court,
playground, chessboard, or multipurpose court
 dimensions and specifications of art and craft products being planned or created, such as photo
sizes, dresses/costumes, furniture
 rules and game scoring systems and formulas, penalties, fines, timing
 use and overuse of recreational activities and associated dangers.

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Areas of study

Area of Study 1: Number


In this area of study students undertake single- and multi-step operations and tasks applied to a range of
numbers, including positive and negative numbers, fractions, decimals and percentages and numbers
expressed using familiar power notations. Students should be confident in selecting the appropriate method
or approach required and communicating their ideas. They should be at ease with performing calculations
both manually and using software tools and devices.

Key knowledge
 whole numbers, fractions, decimals up to three places, and reading numbers expressed in digits or
words
 multiplication facts and knowledge of factors and multiples
 rounding whole numbers and decimals up to three decimal places
 positive and negative numbers
 powers up to an index of three and square roots
 equivalence of decimals, fractions and percentages
 simple proportions and ratios.

Key skills
 fluently read very large and very small numbers
 solve a range of practical calculations including positive and negative numbers, including rounding
whole numbers and decimals up to three places
 solve problems involving fractions, decimals and percentages, including calculating percentage
increase and decrease
 solve problems involving powers and square roots
 solve simple problems with ratio and proportions.

Area of Study 2: Shape


In this area of study students learn to recognise and name a range of two-dimensional shapes and three-
dimensional objects. They classify, manipulate, represent and construct a range of simple and compound
shapes in diagrammatical and concrete forms. Students also become familiar with the different
characteristics and properties used in classifying shapes.

Key knowledge
 properties and names of a range of two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional objects such as
cones and pyramids
 reflectional and rotational symmetry and similarity of a range of shapes and objects
 key angle properties of shapes including degrees in triangles/quadrilaterals
 patterns in, and between, a range of different shapes
 appropriate technologies that create and manipulate a range of two-dimensional shapes and three-
dimensional objects
 scaling in relation to enlargement and reduction in size.

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Key skills
 describe and classify a range of different two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional objects
 determine reflectional and rotational symmetry, and use these to manipulate shapes
 understand common angle properties in relation to two-dimensional shapes
 use ideas of congruence and self-similarity
 create compound two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional objects and describe the relationship
between these, including through the use of technology
 determine, name and describe patterns according to different properties of shapes such as those found
in engineering, architecture and design, for example bridges, buildings, sculptures.

Area of Study 3: Quantity and measures


In this area of study students develop an understanding of metric measurements and their units of
measurement applied to multi-step measurement tasks including working with commonly used non-metric
measurements and their units of measure. Students will conduct estimations of measurements, perform a
range of measurement calculations, and undertake conversions with the embedded use of different
technologies.

Key knowledge
 a range of measures of distance, perimeter, area, volume and capacity including the use and
application of common and routine measurement formulas
 a range of metric and relevant non-metric units of measurement and conversion between units
 a range of units of time and temperature
 a range of measurement estimation strategies
 a range of measurement tools
 understanding of accuracy and tolerances in measurements.

Key skills
 estimate and measure objects and distances by using measurement tools with appropriate accuracy
and tolerance
 undertake calculations and determine measurements of distance, perimeter, area, volume and capacity
for routine, more complex two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional objects including compound
shapes, for example the use of pi in circular measurements
 convert between both metric and non-metric units where relevant such as cm/inch, Celsius/Fahrenheit,
and grams/pounds
 read and interpret units of analogue and digital time including 24-hour time and time zones
 read, interpret and calculate temperature measurements
 perform calculations using multiple units of time, including time zones, and calculate time durations,
including the use of calendar months, weeks, days, as well as hours, minutes, and seconds.

Area of Study 4: Relationships


In this area of study students recognise, understand and represent relationship and change in more formal
mathematical terms, where it exists in relevant real-life contexts and applications. Students should
understand when change is occurring and be able to identify and use formal mathematical relationships,
variables, and mathematical processes to determine the results of change.

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Key knowledge
 a range of rates of change such as RPM, m/s
 relevant and straightforward ratios and proportions
 common, relevant and real-life algebraic formulas, relationships and algebraic expressions and thinking
 representation and visualisation of change such as algebraic expressions and formulas, conversion
charts or graphs
 standard conventions used in the development, use and writing of a range of algebraic expressions.

Key skills
 describe relationships between variables and explain their significance in relationship to the applied
context
 develop and represent relationships with mathematical expressions, or graphical or tabular
representations
 use and apply formulas to solve real-life problems
 use and apply rates to solve problems such as $/m3, L/hr, wages/hr
 use and apply relevant ratios and proportions to solve problems such as scales on maps and plans, in
the mixing of chemicals or ingredients, or calculating magnification factors.

Selecting numeracies for Units 3 and 4


All six numeracies must be covered across Units 3 and 4. The order in which this is done and how this is
combined with the underpinning mathematical knowledge and skills, as described in the areas of study, is
decided by the school and the teachers. This flexibility is an essential part of an applied learning approach.

These combinations can therefore be selected based on the needs and interests of the student cohort,
school community, or related vocational and work environment.

Schools and teachers must make their selection of numeracies based on the following guidelines:

 Each unit must include three of the six numeracies


 All six numeracies must be covered across Units 3 and 4
 All eight areas of study must be covered across Units 3 and 4.

The following table provides an overview for selecting numeracies in Units 3 and 4:

Numeracies Areas of study

Unit 3, Outcome 1

Select three of the following  Select one or two areas of study to support the chosen
six numeracies for Unit 3: numeracy.
a) Personal numeracy ‒ Area of Study 1: Number
b) Civic numeracy ‒ Area of Study 2: Shape
c) Financial numeracy ‒ Area of Study 3: Quantity and measures
d) Health numeracy ‒ Area of Study 4: Relationships
e) Vocational numeracy
f) Recreational numeracy

Unit 4, Outcome 1

Select the three remaining  Select one or two areas of study to support the chosen

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Numeracies Areas of study

numeracies for Unit 4: numeracy.


a) Personal numeracy ‒ Area of Study 5: Dimension and direction
b) Civic numeracy ‒ Area of Study 6: Data
c) Financial numeracy ‒ Area of Study 7: Uncertainty
d) Health numeracy ‒ Area of Study 8: Systematics
e) Vocational numeracy
f) Recreational numeracy

Ensure all areas of study have been covered over the two units.

Connecting the numeracies with the mathematical content in the areas of


study
The following table provides an example of a learning program that covers the four areas of study across
Unit 3.

Unit 3

Numeracy 1 Numeracy 2 Numeracy 3.


E.g. Personal E.g. Financial E.g. Civic

Areas1.of
Number  
study
2. Shape

3. Quantity and
 
measures

4. Relationships 

Outcome 2
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to select, evaluate and apply the four stages of the
mathematical problem-solving cycle, using an expanding range of both informal and formal mathematical
processes, representations, and conventions relevant to the mathematical key knowledge and key skills
specified in the Areas of Study 1-4, and across the chosen range of numeracies.

Problem-solving cycle
The purpose of Outcome 2 is to enable students to develop their everyday numeracy skills and practices in
order to make sense of their daily personal, civic and vocational lives. Students need to develop the skills
and capabilities to be able to problem-solve, and to use their skills to investigate and solve a problem
where the mathematics is embedded within a real-world context. Outcome 2 describes and outlines a
problem-solving cycle that supports students to become more capable, critical and reflective problem
solvers, and to use their mathematical skills successfully and confidently to become numerate individuals
within the community and in their selected vocations.

Given that the contexts described in Outcome 1 will be the starting point, students need to be taken
through a structured problem-solving cycle to know how to move from the real-world context to the

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mathematical world, and to apply their mathematical knowledge to solve the mathematical problem at
hand. Part of solving any such embedded problem is to be able to reflect upon and evaluate the outcomes,
and to then communicate and report on what was done and the results.

The problem-solving cycle underpinning the curriculum has four distinct components which include, in
order: identifying the mathematics; acting on and using the mathematics; evaluating and reflecting; and
communicating and reporting on the results.

These four components are represented in the figure below.

Structure of Outcome 2

The skills and knowledge required to achieve Outcome 2 are organised under four distinct components to
match the problem-solving cycle:

a) Identify the mathematics: recognise, select and interpret the mathematical information embedded in a
real-world context and decide what mathematics to use
When mathematical problems are embedded within real-world contexts, students need to identify the
essential features to be accommodated when transforming the real-world situation into a mathematical
problem. This requires students to identify and name the mathematics embedded in the context or scenario
and to make decisions about how the task can be best approached and solved mathematically. Students
need to develop a plan of the actions they intend to undertake, including providing an overview of the
scenario and any related background information, and specify the related mathematical questions of
interest, conjectures or hypotheses.

Key knowledge
 the purpose of the task and the question(s) to be posed and answered
 the relevant mathematical information embedded in the selected numeracy context and materials
 the mathematical operation(s), processes and tools needed to solve the problem.

Key skills
 identify, interpret and comprehend a range of mathematical information that is embedded in a range of
relevant but possibly unfamiliar or non-routine text, materials and tasks where the mathematics content
needs to be identified and extracted from its contextual situation

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 draw on a combination of hands-on, contextually appropriate materials, personal experience,


mathematical and prior knowledge to select appropriate solutions or strategies selected from the range
of mathematical processes described in the areas of study
 Develop a detailed and explicit mathematical plan, using a combination of formal and informal written
mathematical language and symbols.

b) Act on and use mathematics: perform mathematical actions and processes in order to complete a task
– this includes the use and application of a range of technologies

This stage of the problem-solving cycle involves undertaking the mathematical aspects of the task identified
in the first stage. It requires the use of mathematical processes and problem-solving techniques, facts and
procedures to solve the problem, and the selection and use of appropriate tools, representations and
technologies. For example, students may need to undertake measurements; perform calculations; select
and solve equations; make logical deductions from mathematical assumptions; perform symbolic
manipulations; create and extract information from mathematical tables and graphs; represent and
manipulate geometrical objects in 2D and 3D; or analyse data.

Key knowledge
 the appropriate mathematical processes required for completing the numeracy task
 estimations required prior to completing the numeracy task
 appropriate technology, tools and applications required to complete the numeracy task
 the relevant mathematical actions, processes and calculations required to complete the numeracy task.

Key skills
 flexibly use a blend of personal 'in-the-head' methods, formal pen and paper methods and
digital/technological calculators, software, apps and tools to undertake the required mathematical
actions, processes, calculations and problem-solving processes
 select and flexibly use the appropriate tools, hand-held devices, computers, and technological
processes to perform the mathematical tasks required.

Note: This requires the use and application of a range of multiple and different mathematical steps or
processes.

c) Evaluate and reflect: check and reflect on the mathematical problem-solving processes and outcomes
in relation to the real-world context

Responses to real-world numeracy tasks, including any mathematical solutions and results, judgements,
decisions or conclusions, require review and critical reflection and evaluation. Any results should be
critically evaluated against the original situation in terms of their reasonableness and relevance to the final
solution; with comparisons made to the initial estimates before decisions are made to accept the solution
and/or make revisions and adjustments before presenting the final solutions. In cases where decisions or
judgements are being made about the solution, other factors might also be considered, such as social or
economic consequences. These processes are often referred to as contextual judgements.

Key knowledge
 the estimations, actions and any calculations required to check if results are as expected
 appropriateness, reasonableness and consequences of results of the numeracy task.

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Key skills
 apply estimation and personal experience, mathematical and other prior knowledge, to check and
critically reflect on the results and their reasonableness and appropriateness to the context and task,
adjust results if necessary, and explain why a problem could not be solved if this is the outcome
 independently initiate and uses support from a range of established resources to evaluate the
mathematics used and to critically reflect on the results obtained relative to personal, contextual and
real-world implications and consequences.

d) Communicate and report: use a combination of informal and formal mathematical representations to
document and report outcomes and results

The results of any numeracy task require a summary of the work to be compiled and developed, including
the presentation and interpretation of the findings from the mathematical activities and related applications.
This stage requires students to prepare a range of representations to communicate the mathematical
results. This will involve both oral and written language, and the use of formal and informal mathematical
visualisations and representations, including the use of a range of different formats, media or technologies.

Key knowledge
 written mathematical representations that document and report on the mathematical processes and the
results and the evaluation of the numeracy task
 oral mathematical language to present and discuss the mathematical processes used and the results of
the numeracy task
 the different formats, devices or technologies used to represent and document the numeracy task.

Key skills
 use a combination of informal but mostly formal written mathematical and general language including
some specialised mathematical symbolism, abbreviations and terminology and representation to
document, interpret and communicate the mathematical and problem-solving process, results and
evaluation
 use a combination of formal and informal oral mathematical and general language including some
specialised mathematical language and terminology to present and discuss the mathematical and
problem-solving process, results and evaluation
 use a range of formal mathematical representations, symbolism, diagrams, graphs, algebraic
representation and conventions relevant to the mathematical knowledge as specified in the areas of
study.

Note: Not all of the key knowledge and skills above are expected to be covered in each numeracy
investigation or task; however, they should be covered at least once across the different numeracy tasks
for each unit.

Outcome 3
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to flexibly, effectively and accurately use a range of
appropriate tools and applications chosen from an extensive mathematical toolkit relevant to the key
knowledge and key skills specified in the Areas of Study 1-4, and across the chosen range of numeracies.

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Mathematical toolkit
The purpose of Outcome 3 is for students to apply and use an extensive mathematical toolkit to use where
required as they undertake their numeracy practices, activities and tasks. At the end of Units 3 and 4,
students should be productive, informed and efficient users of both analogue and digital technologies with
the ability to select and effectively use a wide range of appropriate mathematical tools (analogue and
digital/technological) to solve and communicate mathematical problems embedded in practical contexts.

A student’s toolkit should include: existing, traditional tools such as measuring equipment (e.g. tape
measures, rulers, kitchen scales); software applications such as spreadsheets; and a range of new and
emerging devices and applications from across different technologies (e.g. measurement, angle and level
apps available on mobile phones or portable handheld devices). Students should be ready to adapt to
emerging technologies into the future, for example, the use of drones and mobile technologies to measure
and quote for jobs; or the use of internet applications (such as measuring and calculation apps) for costing
and ordering of materials for an onsite job.

Key knowledge
 contemporary technological and online and digital media, including software and applications based on
computers, tablets, calculators and hand-held devices, and the accuracy, relevance, appropriateness
and validity of their use and application
 emerging technologies and their use and representations
 a range of familiar and unfamiliar analogue tools that may include concrete objects and manipulatives
such as clocks, tape measures, tools of trade and industry
 a wide range of digital tools that may include mobile technology, software (including spreadsheets) and
applications
 the conventions and use of such analogue and digital tools appropriate to the individual, community
and workplace, and critical comparisons between technologies regarding validity and accuracy
 the conventions and language for the representations of mathematical and statistical information,
objects and processes, using different technologies and digital media
 the numerical, graphical, symbolic, geometric and statistical functionalities of this range of technologies
for working mathematically
 the conditions and settings including accuracy for a given purpose, and for effective and appropriate
application of a given technology and its functionality
 online safety when using technologies.

Key skills
 use a wide range of both analogue and digital/technological tools and devices to carry out tasks and
derive results
 use and apply technology to carry out computations and analysis
 use technology to effectively and validly visualise and represent information, such as to produce
diagrams, tables, charts, infographics and graphs which model situations and solve practical problems
 use technology to help interpret, evaluate, discuss and communicate the results of a numeracy task
 identify, calculate and evaluate accuracy and error with different technologies and the implications for
results
 make decisions regarding inputs into technology and then reflect on and evaluate and discuss the
outputs of technology
 reflect on and evaluate the use of tools and technology in relation to comparing estimates to results

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 critically reflect on and evaluate any tools and technologies used and the outcomes obtained relative to
personal, contextual and real-world implications, appropriateness and reasonableness.

Satisfactory completion
The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on whether the student has demonstrated the set
of outcomes specified for the unit. Teachers should use a variety of assessment tasks and tools that
provide a range of opportunities for students to demonstrate the key knowledge and key skills in the
outcomes for satisfactory completion.

The areas of study, including the key knowledge and key skills listed for the outcomes, should be used for
course design and the development of learning activities and assessment tools. Assessment must be part
of the regular teaching and learning program and should be completed mainly under teacher supervision
and within a limited timeframe.

All assessment tools for Units 3 and 4 are school-based. Procedures for assessment of levels of
achievement in Units 3 and 4 are a matter for school decision.

The VCAA publishes VCE VM Numeracy Support materials, which includes advice on the design of
assessment tools including assessment rubrics.

Assessment tools
Assessment tools are used to collect evidence to make a judgement as to whether the outcomes have
been met. An assessment tool is a method to collect evidence on the standard reached by students and
can be a task or a teacher observation using a checklist.

The following table provides the assessment requirements for the outcomes in Unit 3 and will assist
teachers in determining the student attainment of the standard.

Outcome Assessment tasks

Outcome 1 Assessment tasks should provide opportunities for


On completion of this unit, the student should be able to apply, practical application of the outcome.
analyse and evaluate the key mathematical knowledge and skills The structure of the Numeracy study is such that the
from the four areas of study, across the specified Numeracies. demonstration of achievement of Outcomes 1, 2 and 3
should be based on the student’s performance on a
Outcome 2
selection of the following assessment tasks:
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to apply,
 Investigations and projects. For example,
analyse and evaluate the mathematical problem-solving cycle in an
students may undertake the costings of a project,
applied learning context, relevant to the mathematical key skills and
including budgeting, invoices, receipts and
knowledge reflected in the areas of study and across the
money handling, or consider loans or mortgages
Numeracies.
including interest and repayments for buying a
Outcome 3 car or a house.

On completion of this unit, the student should be able to select, use  Multimedia presentation, poster or report. For
and apply tools from an extensive mathematical toolkit to a wide example, students may consider the materials
range of contexts effectively and accurately. needed for painting a house, including
measurement, cost and labour.
 Portfolio. For example, students may plan design
and run an event for the community, taking into

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Outcome Assessment tasks

consideration factors such as budgeting,


measuring, time and travel.

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Unit 4
In Unit 4 students further develop, enhance and extend their numeracy practices to make sense of their
personal, public and vocational lives. Students extend their mathematical skills with consideration of their
local, community, national and global environments and contexts, and use of, evaluation and justification of
appropriate technologies.

These units provide students with a broad range of mathematical knowledge, skills and understanding to
solve problems in real contexts for a range of workplace, personal, further learning and community settings
relevant to contemporary society.

The progression of learning is evident in Units 3 and 4 with the development of more complex numeracy
and mathematical skills and knowledge, drawing on the knowledge gained from Units 1 and 2.

Areas of study
There are four areas of study for Unit 4:

 Area of Study 5: Dimension and direction


 Area of Study 6: Data
 Area of Study 7: Uncertainty
 Area of Study 8: Systematics

The areas of study cover a range of different mathematical knowledge and skills that are expected to be
used and applied across the three outcomes.

Selecting the areas of study


Students will cover eight areas of study at least once across Units 3 and 4.

Areas of study are to be selected to support the teaching and learning for each of the six numeracies, as
appropriate to the situations and contextual problems being solved. The order in which the areas of study
are taught, and how they are combined with other areas of study, is decided by the school and teachers.
This flexibility is an essential aspect of an applied learning approach.

Combinations can be based on the needs and interests of the student cohort and its community, and
related vocational and work requirements.

Schools and teachers must make their selection of the areas of study based on the following guidelines:

 Each unit must include three numeracies.


 All six numeracies must be covered across Units 3 and 4.
 Select either one or two areas of study to support each selected numeracy.

Outcomes
For Units 3 and 4 the student is required to demonstrate achievement of three outcomes. As a set these
outcomes are required to encompass all eight areas of study across the two units.

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At the end of Units 3 and 4, students should be able to select the appropriate method or approach required,
attempt a series of operations or tasks, and communicate their ideas in multiple formats, including verbal
and written form. At the end of Units 3 and 4, students should be able to select the appropriate method or
approach required, attempt a series of operations or tasks, and communicate their ideas in multiple
formats, including verbal and written form. Students should be at ease with a range of calculations and
mathematical processes both manually and/or using technology. They should be able to evaluate and
critically reflect on the outcomes and results of their numeracy tasks and investigations and be aware of
any real-world implications and consequences. They should be able to evaluate and critically reflect on the
outcomes and results of their numeracy tasks and investigations and be aware of any real-world
implications and consequences.

Outcome 1
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to extract, evaluate and apply the mathematical key
knowledge and key skills from the four Areas of Study 5-8, embedded in a range of routine, non-routine,
unfamiliar and some specialised contexts across the chosen range of numeracies.

Numeracy in Context
The purpose of Outcome 1 is to support and enable students to use, justify, and formulate a range of
different numeracy skills and capabilities in order to make sense of their daily personal, public and
vocational lives.

Outcome 1 describes the range of contexts that are the focus for undertaking the numeracy and
mathematical skills. These six numeracies cover personal, financial, civic, health, recreational and
vocational contexts where a range of mathematical skills are situated and embedded.

The six numeracies described are intended to be selected to best meet the needs and interests of the
students and the school community, and should be mapped to the relevant and appropriate areas of study
depending on the underpinning mathematical knowledge and skills required. The different numeracies can
take on a more vocational focus if appropriate. For example, financial numeracy could take as its focus
vocations such as the financial or business sectors, or health numeracy could focus on working in the
health, community or medical sectors.

Structure of Outcome 1
Outcome 1 is framed by six different numeracies. Each unit should cover three of the numeracies.

 Choose the remaining three of the six numeracies.


 All six numeracies must be covered across Units 1 and 2.
 Select either one or two areas of study to support each selected numeracy.

a) Personal numeracy relates to the mathematical requirements for personal organisational matters
involving numbers, data, money, time and travel.

Personal numeracy relates to understanding, using and interpreting numerical and mathematical
information presented and embedded in different formats and media, to undertake personally relevant
activities in a range of routine, non-routine, unfamiliar and some specialised situations.

The understanding, use and interpretation of personal numeracy can be drawn from, but is not limited
to, the following examples:

 personal relevant statistical data and information embedded in print and digital media

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 personal and home/family travel tasks such as driving, road safety, holidays, getting to school or
work, or family visits
 scheduling, timetabling and reorganising personal work and travel arrangements
 directional and locational materials (such as printed and online maps, location diagrams for
buildings and GPS displays) and planning, describing and following oral and written directions such
as tours, visits, holidays and excursions
 planning a family or cultural event, such as trips to sites of cultural significance, or a BBQ.

b) Civic numeracy relates to participating in civic life through knowing how to stay informed, and
understanding government, political and social data, information and processes.

Civic numeracy includes understanding, interpreting and evaluating statistical and quantitative
information presented by governments and in news and media reports, and other data-related sources
to meet the demands and challenges of life at local, state, national and global levels. It can incorporate
the understanding, use and interpretation of quantitative and statistical information.

The understanding, use and interpretation of civic numeracy can be drawn from, but is not limited to,
the following examples:

 political or government-related information and data, including advertising, community information,


elections and voting
 information and data on social issues such as human rights, animal rights, cultural and gender
issues
 environmental issues from multiple perspectives including First Nations peoples’ perspectives,
such as land management, fire management, waterways, wildlife
 local, community, state, national and global environmental issues such as climate change, land
degradation, pollution
 statistical monitoring of people’s lives and their use of devices, and actions made based on such
data
 commonly reported state, national and global economic data, trends and predictions including
unemployment rates, underemployment, participation rates, gender pay gaps, inflation, official
interest rates, GDP data.

c) Financial numeracy relates to understanding and undertaking financial transactions and making
informed judgements and decisions regarding the use and management of money.

Financial numeracy involves managing relevant personal, social or work-related financial costs,
charges, income and expenditure.

The understanding, use and interpretation of financial numeracy can be drawn from, but is not limited
to, the following examples:

 comparing and analysing performance or costs and charges over time between different charges,
utilities or providers such as petrol prices, household item prices
 managing and adjusting personal, family and work budgets using technology or software
applications
 chance and likelihood as it relates to gambling, such as sporting odds
 data, trends, predictions, and risks related to financial issues and factors, such as housing prices,
costs of living, CPI, wages and salaries
 data and trends related to government financial systems such as taxation, GST, superannuation.

d) Health numeracy relates to accessing, understanding and using mathematical information to make
decisions and act in the interests of personal and community health and well-being.

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Health numeracy involves being able to use mathematics to manage one’s personal health, safety and
well-being, alongside being aware of such issues from a community or work-related perspective.

The understanding, use and interpretation of health numeracy can be drawn from, but is not limited to,
the following examples:

 nutrition or fitness, including setting goals, tracking data and understanding the issues
 data and trends about social health issues such as drinking, safe driving, obesity, drugs
 health and safety data at work such as accident types, rates and causes, audits of workplace
chemicals and comparison with home-based chemicals
 publicly available medical and health information, data and advice, for example in relation to
maintaining a healthy lifestyle including healthy eating/diet, exercise or diseases and pandemics,
including long term chance and likelihood
 examining differing access to health services in rural and remote areas, and considering the impact
on First Nations communities
 publicly available medical and health information, data and advice, for example in relation to
maintaining a healthy lifestyle including healthy eating/diet, exercise or diseases and pandemics
 health and safety related data, statistics and trends related to potential accidents and use of
chemicals.

e) Vocational numeracy relates to effectively participating in the workplace and managing the demands
of work and/or vocational training.

Vocational or work-related numeracy relates to undertaking the required tasks and activities in a work-
related context, such as using different workplace tools, applications and processes/systems, following
and giving directions, participating in quality assurance processes and data collection, and reading
workplace documents and information.

The understanding, use and interpretation of vocational numeracy can be drawn from, but is not
limited to, the following examples:

 workforce comparisons from past practice (pre-digital) to current (digital), including time to
complete tasks and effort involved
 workplace occupational health and safety related data, statistics and trends related to workplace
accidents and trends
 reading or creating instructions, documents or reports related to workplace tasks and data such as
giving or following workplace directions, collecting, collating and analysing workplace data
 occupational health and safety or quality assurance data requirements
 workplace specific plans and diagrams such as the location of buildings and equipment, hazards,
safety and escape plans
 recording information and data or following and giving directions.

f) Recreational numeracy relates to the mathematical aspects of recreational activities including but not
limited to arts, sport and social media.

Recreational numeracy encompasses not only physical exercise and sport, but also aspects of
personal time spent on non-work activities such as indoor and outdoor pursuits, arts, social media, and
interests such as gaming. It also covers community, cultural or religious activities.

The understanding, use and interpretation of recreational numeracy can be drawn from, but is not
limited to, the following examples:

 statistical and data collection measures around personal or community recreational activities and
events

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 statistical information and data on the use and overuse of recreational activities, social media and
associated dangers
 statistical information and data about sports and sportspeople and their performances
 chance and likelihood as they relate to gambling, such as sporting odds and chances of teams
winning or losing
 activities that require skills in navigation such as orienteering, sailing, bushwalking, bike riding
 planning a trip or holiday using direction and locational materials, such as printed and online maps,
GPS displays.

Areas of study

Area of Study 5: Dimension and direction


In this area of study students develop an understanding of the use of space, direction and location in
relation to landmarks and compass directions. Students should be able to accurately give and follow
complex directions to multiple locations based on digital and printed maps and diagrams. The study of
dimension also includes angles with degrees and spatial awareness.

Key knowledge
 location and direction in relation to objects and landmarks
 location and direction in relation to maps and technologies
 oral and written instructions for moving to specified locations
 a range of angle measures and representations.

Key skills
 give direction and location instructions between multiple destinations, including unfamiliar locations
using appropriate maps or technology
 understand and use compass directions and use appropriate language such as NE, SSW, N15W
 demonstrate an understanding of angles using degrees
 understand where an object is in space using one-, two- and three- dimensions and using the
appropriate language to describe an object’s position and movement in space.

Area of Study 6: Data


Data can be found in everyday life, workplaces and society. In this area of study, students collect,
represent and undertake different analyses of data to discover patterns in data, undertake summary
statistics, and derive meaning from data located within relevant but possibly unfamiliar or non-routine
contexts. Data should be examined for comparison and analysis. Students should draw conclusions from
the data and their analysis and be confident to represent, describe and reflect on any patterns, outcomes
and trends.

Key knowledge
 data collection tools, categorisation, processes and production
 display of data with commonly used tables and graphs including axes and scales
 simple measures of central tendency and spread of data, including outliers
 straightforward analysis of data sets and their displays.

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Key skills
 collect, collate and organise data sets and display these in the most appropriate format, including axes
and scales
 choose and find the most appropriate common measures of centre and spread for data sets, such as
mean, median and range of data
 discriminate between the different measures of centre and spread and understand how they can
change conclusions from data, and identify outliers and their implications for the data
 read and interpret results from data presented in multiple forms of tables, graphs and summary
statistics, including to describe patterns, variations and trends in the data
 draw conclusions from the data analysis.

Area of Study 7: Uncertainty


In this area of study students use concepts of randomness, chance and probability. Students should be
able to make mathematical predictions about the likelihood of events occurring or not occurring. They
should be able to consider and make conclusions about likelihood based on the data and make
straightforward inferences. Students should be familiar with the concept of risk and apply the idea of
uncertainty to risk.

Key knowledge
 likelihood of events or occurrences happening and how to represent them
 simple unconditional probability events with randomness and chance
 relevant language of chance and their relationship to numerical values associated with chance and
probability
 randomness and chance of unconditional probability events
 inferencing from likelihood estimates to inform decision making in relation to real-life events, including
risk.

Key skills
 identify possible outcomes of an event and create visual representations of sample spaces or options
 estimate, predict and calculate the likelihood of events occurring using decimals, ratios and
percentages
 compare different real-life events or probabilities
 make decisions based on inferences about sets of accessible, relevant and appropriate data and
information
 evaluate risk in relation to relevant and appropriate problems with reference to likelihood of events
occurring.

Area of Study 8: Systematics


In this area of study students develop an understanding of inputs and outputs of technology, including
emerging technologies, that can be used for the purposes of planning, collecting, sorting or categorising a
range of quantitative or mathematical data and information. Students should be confident in choosing
multiple inputs of data, compare the outputs and results, and analyse, review and make decisions and
conclusions based on the representations and any summary information derived from the technology.

Key knowledge

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 relevant and appropriate information and data inputs and outputs


 relevant and appropriate computational data collection and interpretation tools and applications
 collating, organising, categorising, planning, scheduling and table creation of relevant information and
data using different technologies.

Key skills
This area of study includes the use of technology (such as spreadsheets, software, mobile technologies
and apps) to:

 choose appropriate technologies such as spreadsheets, software or applications to input or record real-
life data and information
 use technology to collect, organise and sort relevant data and information
 use different technology systems to plan and schedule different actions
 make informed decisions on inputs and interpret outputs mathematically such as from interactive maps,
PTV, online calculators/applications/planners
 decide, set and adjust parameters of inputs to optimise outputs and solutions for real-life situations and
contexts.

Selecting numeracies for Unit 4


All six numeracies must be covered across Units 3 and 4. The order in which this is done and how this is
combined with the underpinning mathematical knowledge and skills, as described in the areas of study, is
decided by the school and the teachers. This flexibility is an essential part of an applied learning approach.

These combinations can therefore be selected based on the needs and interests of the student cohort,
school community, or related vocational and work environment.

Schools and teachers must make their selection of numeracies based on the following guidelines:

 Each unit must include three of the six numeracies


 All six numeracies must be covered across Units 3 and 4
 All eight areas of study must be covered across Units 3 and 4.

The following table provides an overview for selecting numeracies in Units 3 and 4:

Numeracies Areas of study

Unit 3, Outcome 1

Select three of the following  Select one or two areas of study to support the chosen
six numeracies for Unit 3: numeracy.
a) Personal numeracy ‒ Area of Study 1: Number
b) Civic numeracy ‒ Area of Study 2: Shape
c) Financial numeracy ‒ Area of Study 3: Quantity and measures
d) Health numeracy ‒ Area of Study 4: Relationships
e) Vocational numeracy
f) Recreational numeracy

Unit 4, Outcome 1

Select the three remaining  Select one or two areas of study to support the chosen
numeracies for Unit 4:

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Numeracies Areas of study

a) Personal numeracy numeracy.


b) Civic numeracy ‒ Area of Study 5: Dimension and direction
c) Financial numeracy ‒ Area of Study 6: Data
d) Health numeracy ‒ Area of Study 7: Uncertainty
e) Vocational numeracy ‒ Area of Study 8: Systematics
f) Recreational numeracy

Ensure all areas of study have been covered over the two units.

Connecting the numeracies with the mathematical content in the areas of


study
The following table provides an example of a learning program that covers the eight areas of study across
Units 3 and 4.

Unit 3

Numeracy 1 Numeracy 2 Numeracy 3


E.g. Personal E.g. Financial E.g. Civic

Areas 1.
of study
Number  

2. Shape 

3. Quantity and
 
measures

4. Relationships 

Unit 4

Numeracy 4 Numeracy 5 Numeracy 6


E.g. Health E.g. Vocational E.g. Recreational

5. Dimension and
Areas of study  
direction

6. Data 

7. Uncertainty 

8. Systematics 

Outcome 2
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to select, evaluate and apply the four stages of the
mathematical problem-solving cycle, using an expanding range of both informal and formal mathematical
processes, representations, and conventions relevant to the mathematical key knowledge and key skills
specified in the Areas of Study 5-8, and across the chosen range of numeracies.

Problem-solving cycle

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The purpose of Outcome 2 is to enable students to develop their everyday numeracy skills and practices to
make sense of their daily personal, civic and vocational lives. Students need to develop the skills and
capabilities to be able to problem-solve, and to use their skills to investigate and solve a problem where the
mathematics is embedded within a real-world context. Outcome 2 describes and outlines a problem-solving
cycle that supports students to become more capable, critical and reflective problem solvers, and to use
their mathematical skills successfully and confidently to become numerate individuals within the community
and in their selected vocations.

Given that the contexts described in Outcome 1 will be the starting point, students need to be taken
through a structured problem-solving cycle to know how to move from the real-world context to the
mathematical world, and to apply their mathematical knowledge to solve the mathematical problem at
hand. Part of solving any such embedded problem is to be able to reflect upon and evaluate the outcomes,
and to then communicate and report on what was done and the results.

The problem-solving cycle underpinning the curriculum has four distinct components which include, in
order: identifying the mathematics; acting on and using the mathematics; evaluating and reflecting; and
communicating and reporting on the results.

These four components are represented in the figure below.

Structure of Outcome 2

The skills and knowledge required to achieve Outcome 2 are organised under four distinct components to
match the problem-solving cycle:

a) Identify the mathematics: recognise, select and interpret the mathematical information embedded in a
real-world context and decide what mathematics to use
When mathematical problems are embedded within real-world contexts, students need to identify the
essential features to be accommodated when transforming the real-world situation into a mathematical
problem. This requires students to identify and name the mathematics embedded in the context or scenario
and to make decisions about how the task can be best approached and solved mathematically. Students
need to develop a plan of the actions they intend to undertake, including providing an overview of the
scenario and any related background information, and specify the related mathematical questions of
interest, conjectures or hypotheses.

Key knowledge

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 the purpose of the task and the question(s) to be posed and answered
 the relevant mathematical information embedded in the selected numeracy context and materials
 the mathematical operation(s), processes and tools needed to solve the problem.

Key skills
 identify, interpret and comprehend a range of mathematical information that is embedded in a range of
relevant but possibly unfamiliar or non-routine text, materials and tasks where the mathematics content
needs to be identified and extracted from its contextual situation
 draw on a combination of hands-on, contextually appropriate materials, personal experience,
mathematical and prior knowledge to select appropriate solutions or strategies selected from the range
of mathematical processes described in the areas of study
 develop a detailed and explicit mathematical plan, using a combination of formal and informal written
mathematical language and symbols.

b) Act on and use mathematics: perform mathematical actions and processes in order to complete a task
– this includes the use and application of a range of technologies

This stage of the problem-solving cycle involves undertaking the mathematical aspects of the task identified
in the first stage. It requires the use of mathematical processes and problem-solving techniques, facts and
procedures to solve the problem, and the selection and use of appropriate tools, representations and
technologies. For example, students may need to undertake measurements; perform calculations; select
and solve equations; make logical deductions from mathematical assumptions; perform symbolic
manipulations; create and extract information from mathematical tables and graphs; represent and
manipulate geometrical objects in 2D and 3D; or analyse data.

Key knowledge
 the appropriate mathematical processes required for completing the numeracy task
 estimations required prior to completing the numeracy task
 appropriate technology, tools and applications required to complete the numeracy task
 the relevant mathematical actions, processes and calculations required to complete the numeracy task.

Key skills
 flexibly uses a blend of personal 'in-the-head' methods, formal pen and paper methods and
digital/technological calculators, software, apps and tools to undertake the required mathematical
actions, processes, calculations and problem-solving processes
 select and flexibly use the appropriate tools, hand-held devices, computers, and technological
processes to perform the mathematical tasks required.

Note: This requires the use and application of a range of multiple and different mathematical steps or
processes.

c) Evaluate and reflect: check and reflect on the mathematical problem-solving processes and outcomes
in relation to the real-world context

Responses to real-world numeracy tasks, including any mathematical solutions and results, judgements,
decisions or conclusions, require review and critical reflection and evaluation. Any results should be
critically evaluated against the original situation in terms of its reasonableness and relevance to the final
solution; with comparisons made to the initial estimates before decisions are made to accept the solution
and/or make revisions and adjustments before presenting the final solutions. In cases where decisions or

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judgements are being made about the solution, other factors might also be considered, such as social or
economic consequences. These processes are often referred to as contextual judgements.

Key knowledge
 the estimations, actions and any calculations required to check if results are as expected
 appropriateness, reasonableness and consequences of results of the numeracy task.

Key skills
 apply estimation and personal experience, mathematical and other prior knowledge, to check and
critically reflect on the results and their reasonableness and appropriateness to the context and task,
adjust results if necessary, and explain why a problem could not be solved if this is the outcome
 independently initiate and use support from a range of established resources to evaluate the
mathematics used and to critically reflect on the results obtained relative to personal, contextual and
real-world implications and consequences.

d) Communicate and report: use a combination of informal and formal mathematical representations to
document and report outcomes and results

The results of any numeracy task require a summary of the work to be compiled and developed, including
the presentation and interpretation of the findings from the mathematical activities and related applications.
This stage requires students to prepare a range of representations to communicate the mathematical
results. This will involve both oral and written language, and the use of formal and informal mathematical
visualisations and representations, including the use of a range of different formats, media or technologies.

Key knowledge
 written mathematical representations to document and report on the mathematical processes and the
results and the evaluation of the numeracy task
 oral mathematical language to present and discuss the mathematical processes used and the results of
the numeracy task
 the different formats, devices or technologies used to represent and document the numeracy task

Key skills
 use a combination of informal but mostly formal written mathematical and general language, including
some specialised mathematical symbolism, abbreviations and terminology and representation, to
document, interpret and communicate the mathematical and problem-solving process, results and
evaluation
 use a combination of formal and informal oral mathematical and general language, including some
specialised mathematical language and terminology, to present and discuss the mathematical and
problem-solving process, results and evaluation
 use a range of formal mathematical representations, symbolism, diagrams, graphs, algebraic
representation and conventions relevant to the mathematical knowledge as specified in the areas of
study.

Note: Not all of the key knowledge and skills above are expected to be covered in each numeracy
investigation or task; however, they should be covered at least once across the different numeracy tasks
for each unit.

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Outcome 3
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to flexibly, effectively and accurately use a range of
appropriate tools and applications chosen from an extensive mathematical toolkit relevant to the key
knowledge and key skills specified in the Areas of Study 5-8, and across the chosen range of numeracies.

Mathematical toolkit
The purpose of Outcome 3 is for students to apply and use an extensive mathematical toolkit to use where
required as they undertake their numeracy practices, activities and tasks. At the end of Units 3 and 4,
students should be productive, informed and efficient users of both analogue and digital technologies with
the ability to select and effectively use a wide range of appropriate mathematical tools (analogue and
digital/technological) to solve and communicate mathematical problems embedded in practical contexts.

A student’s toolkit should include: existing, traditional tools such as measuring equipment (e.g. tape
measures, rulers, kitchen scales); software applications such as spreadsheets; and a range of new and
emerging devices and applications from across different technologies (e.g. measurement, angle and level
apps available on mobile phones or portable handheld devices). Students should be ready to adapt to
emerging technologies into the future, for example, the use of drones and mobile technologies to measure
and quote for jobs; or the use of internet applications (such as measuring and calculation apps) for costing
and ordering of materials for an onsite job.

Key knowledge
 contemporary technological and online and digital media, including software and applications based on
computers, tablets, calculators and hand-held devices, and the accuracy, relevance, appropriateness
and validity of their use and application
 emerging technologies and their use and representations
 a range of familiar and unfamiliar analogue tools that may include concrete objects and manipulatives
such as clocks, tape measures, tools of trade and industry
 a wide range of digital tools that may include mobile technology, software (including spreadsheets) and
applications
 the conventions and use of such analogue and digital tools appropriate to the individual, community
and workplace, and critical comparisons between technologies regarding validity and accuracy
 the conventions and language for the representations of mathematical and statistical information,
objects and processes, using different technologies and digital media
 the numerical, graphical, symbolic, geometric and statistical functionalities of this range of technologies
for working mathematically
 the conditions and settings including accuracy for a given purpose, and for effective and appropriate
application of a given technology and its functionality
 online safety when using technologies.

Key skills

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 use a wide range of both analogue and digital/technological tools and devices to carry out tasks and
derive results
 use and apply technology to carry out computations and analysis
 use technology to effectively and validly visualise and represent information, such as to produce
diagrams, tables, charts, infographics and graphs which model situations and solve practical problems
 use technology to help interpret, evaluate, discuss and communicate the results of a numeracy task
 identify, calculate and evaluate accuracy and error with different technologies and the implications for
results
 make decisions regarding inputs into technology and then reflect on and evaluate and discuss the
outputs of technology
 reflect on and evaluate the use of tools and technology in relation to comparing estimates to results
 critically reflect on, evaluate, and justify any tools and technologies used and the outcomes obtained
relative to personal, contextual and real-world implications, appropriateness and reasonableness.

Satisfactory completion
The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on whether the student has demonstrated the set
of outcomes specified for the unit. Teachers should use a variety of assessment tasks and tools that
provide a range of opportunities for students to demonstrate the key knowledge and key skills in the
outcomes for satisfactory completion.

The areas of study, including the key knowledge and key skills listed for the outcomes, should be used for
course design and the development of learning activities and assessment tools. Assessment must be part
of the regular teaching and learning program and should be completed mainly under teacher supervision
and within a limited timeframe.

All assessment tools for Units 3 and 4 are school-based. Procedures for assessment of levels of
achievement in Units 3 and 4 are a matter for school decision.

The VCAA publishes VCE VM Numeracy Support materials, which includes advice on the design of
assessment tools including assessment rubrics.

Assessment tools
Assessment tools are used to collect evidence to make a judgement as to whether the outcomes have
been met. An assessment tool is a method to collect evidence on the standard reached by students and
can be a task or a teacher observation using a checklist.

The following table provides the assessment requirements for the outcomes in Unit 4 and will assist
teachers in determining the student attainment of the standard.

Outcome Assessment tasks

Outcome 1 Assessment tasks should provide opportunities for


On completion of this unit, the student should be able to apply, practical application of the outcome.
critically analyse, evaluate and justify the key mathematical The structure of the Numeracy study is such that the
knowledge and skills from the four areas of study, across the demonstration of achievement of Outcomes 1, 2 and 3
specified Numeracies. should be based on the student’s performance on a
selection of the following assessment tasks:
Outcome 2

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Outcome Assessment tasks

On completion of this unit, the student should be able to apply,  Investigations and projects. For example,
critically analyse, evaluate and justify the mathematical problem- students may undertake the costings of a project,
solving cycle in an applied learning context, relevant to the including budgeting, invoices, receipts and
mathematical key skills and knowledge reflected in the areas of study money handling, or consider loans or mortgages
and across the Numeracies. including interest and repayments for buying a
car or a house.
Outcome 3
 Multimedia presentation, poster or report. For
On completion of this unit, the student should be able to select,
example, students may consider the materials
apply, evaluate and justify the use of tools from an extensive
needed for painting a house, including
mathematical toolkit to a wide range of contexts effectively and
measurement, cost and labour.
accurately.
 Portfolio. For example, students may plan design
and run an event for the community, taking into
consideration factors such as budgeting,
measuring, time and travel.

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