WACE Maths Methods study plan

Sketch and label the graphs of linear, quadratic, and cubic functions from their equations without a calculator

Solve quadratic equations by factorising, completing the square, and applying the quadratic formula, and verify each answer

Apply the power rule to differentiate polynomial expressions and evaluate the gradient at a specified point

Interpret the derivative as the gradient of a tangent and estimate it numerically from a table of values

Determine domain and range for polynomial, rational, and square-root functions and express answers in interval notation

Perform and simplify composite and inverse function operations, including restricting the domain so an inverse exists

Differentiate using the product, quotient, and chain rules, and identify which rule each expression requires

Find equations of tangent and normal lines at given points on curves

Differentiate exponential functions and apply the chain rule to expressions such as e^(kx)

Determine stationary points, classify them using the second derivative, and sketch the resulting curve

Solve maximum and minimum optimisation problems set in context, and justify that the answer is a maximum or minimum

Convert between exponential and logarithmic forms and apply logarithm laws to simplify expressions

Integrate polynomial and exponential expressions using the power rule and standard exponential results

Evaluate definite integrals and interpret them as signed areas under curves

Calculate the area between a curve and the x-axis, splitting the interval where the curve crosses the axis

Solve equations involving logarithms and exponentials, including those requiring the use of logarithm laws

Convert fluently between degrees and radians and evaluate exact trigonometric ratios for standard angles

Sketch sine, cosine, and tangent graphs showing amplitude, period, phase shift, and vertical translation

Solve trigonometric equations over a stated interval and list all solutions within it

Apply the Pythagorean identity and other basic identities to simplify trigonometric expressions

Differentiate sine, cosine, and tangent functions, including composites requiring the chain rule

Locate stationary points of trigonometric functions and determine their nature on a given interval

Integrate simple trigonometric expressions and evaluate definite trigonometric integrals

Solve applied problems involving trigonometric rates of change or maxima and minima

Compute probabilities using the addition and multiplication rules and distinguish independent from mutually exclusive events

Apply conditional probability and use tree diagrams or two-way tables to organise multi-stage problems

Calculate and interpret the mean and standard deviation of discrete random variables

Recognise and apply the binomial distribution to contextual problems, and solve exponential growth and decay problems modelled by e^(kt)

Complete two full-length timed practice papers under exam conditions and record the mark for each domain

Identify the two weakest domains from the practice papers and rework all incorrect questions in those areas

Build a one-page condensed revision sheet of formulas and standard methods for every domain

State and rehearse a timing strategy for allocating minutes across sections in the exam