The mathematics curriculum is built upon important conceptual areas of mathematics such as Number and Algebra, Geometry and Measurement, Function and Graph, as well as Probability and Statistics concepts. Students will be able to apply these concepts in multiple ways using numbers, graphs, symbols, diagrams, and words. The Department of Mathematics emphasizes concept attainment through problem solving and reasoning, mathematical skills and tools, mathematical computation and modeling, and putting mathematics to work.
In the foundation years, students are given a broad-based mathematical study of algebra, geometry, statistics and trigonometry. These topics serve as foundation for many modules offered in the later years.
Pre-calculus topics such as functions, trigonometry, sequences and series will be taught in the advancement years. Students must be familiar with the properties of functions, the algebra of functions, the graphs of functions, the language of functions, and the values of trigonometric functions. Vectors and mathematical proofs will also be touched upon.
Students in the specialization years are required to read calculus at an extensive level that is comparable to calculus courses in colleges and universities. They also have a wide range of electives to choose from to deepen their knowledge and widen their exposure.
The Department offers both Major in Mathematics and Major with Honours in Mathematics. A summary of the required modules are given in the Tables below.
For the current Years 5 & 6 students, there are two tracks each available for Major and Major with Honours. Students are advised to follow the most appropriate learning track on the basis of their academic performance. Students in Tracks 1 & 2 normally sit for AP Calculus AB in their Years 6 & 5, respectively. Students in Tracks 3 & 4 normally sit for AP Calculus BC in their Years 6 & 5, respectively. Students normally sit for AP Statistics in their Year 6. Able students may take the respective AP examinations earlier.
Mathematics Major is a compulsory subject major required for graduation with the NUS High School Diploma. To qualify for reading a Major with Honours in Mathematics, students have to achieve consistently good results in their Core modules.
The Department follows the general school policies on curriculum and assessment. For more details, please refer to the school curriculum framework.
The Department follows the general school policies on Exemption and Acceleration of Modules. Interested students shall approach the Head of Department for details on these matters.
