Secondary 4 Mathematics-Technical and Scientific Option Ministerial Examination - Québec study materials
Secondary 4 Mathematics-Technical and Scientific Option Ministerial Examination - Québec study resources

Secondary 4 Mathematics-Technical and Scientific Option Ministerial Examination - Québec study plan

Secondary 4 Mathematics-Technical and Scientific Option Ministerial Examination - Québec · Give each week a clear focus.

8 weeks · About 6 hours per week

Week 1

Algebra and Functions & Reasoning and Mathematical Communication

  • Review and consolidate the properties of the main function families (polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric) by producing a one-page reference sheet for each family.

  • Solve 15 algebraic manipulation problems (simplifying, factoring, solving equations and inequalities) without a calculator and verify each answer.

  • Write a 200-word explanation of how to determine the domain of a function from its rule, using two contrasting examples.

  • Set up a personal error log template with columns for domain, error type, correction, and date.

Your checkpoint

A digital or paper error log containing at least 10 entries from this week's practice, each with a corrected solution.

Week 2

Algebra and Functions

  • Graph at least 12 functions by hand, identifying asymptotes, intercepts, and intervals of increase/decrease.

  • Solve 10 real-world modelling problems that require choosing an appropriate function model and justifying the choice.

  • Derive the inverse of five invertible functions and verify graphically.

  • Explain in writing how transformations (translation, scaling, reflection) affect the rule and graph of a function.

Your checkpoint

A portfolio of 12 hand-drawn graphs with annotations and a 150-word justification for each of three chosen models.

Week 3

Algebra and Functions & Optimization and Mathematical Modelling

  • Solve 12 optimization problems that reduce to quadratic or rational functions, clearly defining variables and constraints.

  • Use the concept of vertex and completing the square to find optimal values in at least five contexts.

  • Interpret the meaning of the optimal value in the problem context and state it in a complete sentence.

  • Compare two solution methods (algebraic vs. graphical) for three optimization problems.

Your checkpoint

A written report of five optimization problems, each with a diagram, full solution, and contextual interpretation.

Week 4

Geometry and Geometric Transformations & Reasoning and Mathematical Communication

  • State and apply the properties of geometric transformations (translations, rotations, reflections, dilations) to figures in the Cartesian plane.

  • Solve 10 problems involving congruence and similarity, including proofs of triangle similarity.

  • Construct a concept map linking transformations, congruence, similarity, and metric relations in triangles and circles.

  • Write a 250-word explanation of how transformations can be used to prove geometric properties.

Your checkpoint

A completed concept map and a set of 10 solved geometry problems with justifications for each step.

Week 5

Geometry and Geometric Transformations & Trigonometry

  • Apply metric and trigonometric relations in right triangles (Pythagorean theorem, sine, cosine, tangent) to solve 15 problems.

  • Use the sine and cosine laws to solve 10 oblique triangle problems, including the ambiguous case.

  • Calculate the area of triangles using multiple formulas and justify the choice.

  • Solve 5 problems that combine geometric transformations with trigonometric ratios.

Your checkpoint

A formula sheet for triangle geometry and trigonometry with a worked example for each formula, plus 10 solved problems.

Week 6

Trigonometry & Optimization and Mathematical Modelling

  • Model 6 real-world situations (e.g., heights, distances, navigation) using trigonometric functions and solve for unknown quantities.

  • Graph sine and cosine functions with amplitude, period, and phase shift, and interpret these parameters in context.

  • Solve 8 optimization problems that involve trigonometric constraints or objectives.

  • Verify solutions using a second method (e.g., scale drawing or technology) for three problems.

Your checkpoint

A set of 6 modelling problems with graphs, equations, solutions, and a reflection on the reasonableness of each answer.

Week 7

Statistics and Probability

  • Organize and interpret data using tables, histograms, and box plots; calculate measures of central tendency and dispersion.

  • Solve 12 probability problems involving independent and dependent events, conditional probability, and Venn diagrams.

  • Distinguish between experimental and theoretical probability and explain the law of large numbers.

  • Design and conduct a small simulation (e.g., using random numbers) to estimate a probability.

Your checkpoint

A mini-project report: a statistical analysis of a real dataset (at least 20 values) with graphs, summary statistics, and a probability simulation.

Week 8

Algebra and Functions & Geometry and Geometric Transformations & Trigonometry & Statistics and Probability & Optimization and Mathematical Modelling & Reasoning and Mathematical Communication

  • Complete two full-length practice exams under timed conditions, simulating the ministerial format.

  • Review all error log entries and re-solve each incorrect problem correctly.

  • Create a one-page summary sheet of key formulas and procedures for each domain.

  • Practice written communication by explaining solutions to three multi-step problems in clear, complete sentences.

Your checkpoint

A corrected practice exam with a self-assessment rubric indicating areas of strength and remaining gaps, plus the one-page summary sheet.

Milestones

Week 2: Complete a 30-minute quiz on function properties and algebraic manipulation with at least 80% accuracy, and submit the error log showing corrections.

Week 4: Solve a multi-step optimization problem and a geometric transformation problem within 45 minutes, scoring at least 7/10 on a self-graded rubric.

Week 6: Complete a 60-minute mixed set of trigonometry and geometry problems with at least 75% accuracy, and explain two solutions in writing.

Week 8: Score at least 70% on a full-length practice exam and submit a completed error log with all entries corrected and a summary sheet covering all domains.