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Mathematics Extension 2

Mathematics Extension 2 (4 Unit) is the most challenging HSC subject, but it can significantly increase the final marks (aligned marks) from raw marks. This course is only offered in Year 12, and Mathematics Extension 1 (3 Unit) is its prerequisite course.

 

The current new syllabus includes the following topics:

  • Proof (new)

  • Vectors (new)

  • Complex Numbers (changed a bit)

  • Calculus (easier)

  • Mechanics (easier)

For more information on the Mathematics Extension 2 syllabus, click here.

 

Advice for studying this course:

Even though there aren't many topics for Mathematics Extension 2, the amount of time devoted to this subject is usually double the time required for Mathematics Extension 1. Please do not underestimate the difficulty of this course, even though the topic list may look simple at the first look. Also, please keep in mind that these topics are only for Year 12. Students generally have three terms to complete the course, before they start revising in the last term.

 

Textbooks to choose from:

Four major textbooks are currently used in teaching Mathematics Extension 2: Focus, Fitzpatrick, Cambridge, and Terry Lee. Focus helps students revise the basic concepts and build new knowledge from there, but it tends to be easier than actual HSC questions. Cambridge and Terry Lee focus more on challenging mathematics concepts and theories, but some contents are beyond the syllabus. In general, Fitzpatrick provides a suitable level of content for most students.

 

Advice for doing the HSC assessment:

1. Memorise all formulas. Mathematics Extension 2 is so intense that the majority of students struggle to finish the assessment.

2. Finish the easy-medium questions quickly, which covers all multiple-choice questions (1-2 minutes for each ideally and maximum 3 minutes) and the first two to three short answer questions (2 minutes for each mark)

3. Unless you are very confident in this course, DO NOT spend too much time on the last short answer question if they look very difficult. It is unlikely for most students to finish the entire paper under exam conditions. So use the time to focus on the rest of the exam.

4. Practise past HSC topic questions right after you finish each topic, and start taking mock tests in the last term.

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