APM is intended as the National Senior Certificate replacement of the subject 'Additional Mathematics' from the old Senior Certificate. The syllabus has been revised, retaining much of the old compulsory Calculus and optional Algebra, Finance and Statistics sections and introducing Mathematical Modelling, Graph Theory and Matrices as additional options.
The IEB registered unit standards with SAQA for APM in 2007. In addition, a curriculum statement and a subject assessment guideline have been produced in the language of the NSC subjects. Currently, this subject is examined by the IEB and is offered to all learners, from the State and the private sector, as a subject in addition to the requirements of the NSC. The qualification is assessed by means of one 3 hour written paper and a portfolio of school-based assessment, in the ratio 75 : 25. Umalusi accredit the examination and approved the results in 2008, deeming the 'pass' level to be Level 3 (40%).
Structure of the Paper
There are 300 marks available in the paper and the duration is 3 hours.
| Calculus & Algebra (Compulsory) | 200 marks |
| Finance & Modelling (Optional) | 100 marks |
| Statistics (Optional) | 100 marks |
| Graph Theory and Matrices (Optional) | 100 marks |
Candidates are expected to choose one of the three optional sections.
A formula sheet is included.
(Source: IEB website - http://www.ieb.co.za/sce/APmaths1a.php)
Alpha Mathematics in Grades 10 - 11
Alpha Mathematics is a subject which expands the Maths curriculum into a number of areas which are not covered by the current Maths syllabus. Each of these areas is then covered in significant depth.
The subject is assessed formally by the Assosciation for Alpha Maths who provide a separate certifcate at the end of grade 12. It does not appear on a student's matric certificate.
There is significant advantage in taking this subject as it covers content areas identified by a number of University Mathematics and Engineering Departments as valuable preparation for a First Year course.
In grade 10 the following topics are addressed:
- Complex Numbers
- Synthetic Division
- Factor Theorem
- Partial Fractions
- Compound Functions
- Matrices
- Calculus & Basic Integration
What is Information Technology (IT) about?
Information Technology is the new F.E.T. subject which was examined at matric level in 2008 as part of the new curriculum, for the first time.
IT addresses the higher-end needs of the computer skills market. Students do not merely learn which buttons to press but how to think and solve problems, using the technology.
In this subject a student learns to
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Use the computer to communicate - using email, chat and even Skype!
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Program the computer to do new tasks.
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Create web pages.
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Create and use a database.
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Create and use a spreadsheet sensibly.
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Do presentations.
Information Technology focuses on activities that deal with the solution of problems through
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logical thinking
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information management
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communication
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development of computer applications using current development tools
The subject develops awareness and an understanding of the social, economic and other implications of using computers.
The IT Learning Outcomes address four areas namely
- Hardware and System Software
- e-Communication
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Social and Ethical Issues
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Programming and Software Development
IT can be studied making use of either Java or Delphi as a programming language.
What is Computer-Applications Technology (CAT) about?
Computer-Applications Technology is the new Grade 10, 11 and 12 subject as part of the new curriculum. CAT addresses the middle-end needs of the computer skills market. Students learn how to use a computer in an office context. Programs such as Microsoft Office are used to creatively produce solutions to typical problems encountered in an office.
In this subject a student learns to
- Use the computer to communicate - using email, chat and even Skype!
- Use the internet for research, communication, advertising and business.
- Create simple relational databases to store, manipulate and extract data.
- Create and use a spreadsheet creatively to do calculations, solve problems, draw graphs and extract information.
- Do electronci presentations creatively and with sound knowledge of all the possibilities.
The subject develops awareness and an understanding of the social, economic and other implications of using computers.
The CAT Learning Outcomes address four areas namely
- Operational Knowledge of Information and Communication Technologies
- Integrated End-user Computer Applications Skills and Knowledge in Problem Solving
- Information Management
CAT does not contribute towards University Exemption
Mathematics Legup!
Maths is offered in Grade 12 as a solid course for students who are in need of full tuition or those looking for extra classes. This course has also been developed with students who have already written matric and need to improve their symbol in order to go to University.
"Mathematics enables creative and logical reasoning about problems in the physical and social world and in the context of Mathematics itself. It is a distinctly human activity practised by all cultures." NCS
In the Mathematics Course, a good text book is prescribed. The course is presented making use of the text book, supported by lessons by our teacher. CAMI Mathematics is used to support the student extensively with exercises and assessments on the computer.
The Learning Outcomes for Mathematics are:
- Number and Number Relationships.
- Functions and Algebra
- Space, Shape & Measurement
- Data Handling & Probability