Mathematics

Mathematics as an expression of the human mind reflects the active will, the contemplative reason, and the desire for aesthetic perfection. Its basic elements are logic and intuition, analysis and construction, generality and individuality. Richard Courant, Co-author of ‘What is Mathematics?’.

The subject of Mathematics in Australia is often viewed as a set of numbers and equations that are fraught with confusion and anxiety, rarely being seen as having any impact or relevance outside of the classroom. But this is an unfair assessment. The word ‘mathematics’ has its root in the Greek word ‘mathema’ meaning ‘that which is learnt’. It is a far broader interpretation of the word, that more accurately describes just how all-pervasive mathematics truly is, and I think that this is a much fairer summation of what the subject Mathematics is about. The ideas explored in Mathematics are about establishing for our students those thought structures required for the clear categorisation and logical sequencing of ideas. These skills may then be used for the purpose of constructing appropriate arguments in order to support any contention within any field of study. These are the thinking and analysis skills that are necessary for our students to meet with success when studying any of the languages or sciences. But more than that, the careful study of mathematics provides the individual with the tools that they require to explore life, understand and interact with the world around them and assist them on their way to discovering their part in God’s plan.

It is a privilege and an honour to lead the Mathematics department, and we are continually astounded by the dedication of our teachers. This year, through the challenges of the pandemic, we have witnessed the Mathematics staff demonstrate enormous positivity in recalibrating how they teach to accommodate and adapt to the new and unfamiliar environment of online learning. Even when learning is occurring remotely, whether they are working with students who require extra support with their understanding, giving up their recess or lunch break to help students clarify their understanding, or volunteering their time on weekends to assist our Year 12 students in refining their skills as the final examinations approach, they continue to give selflessly of themselves. It would not be proper to proceed further without acknowledging our Maths staff and thanking them for their incredible and giving input.

The Australian Mathematics Competition is the longest standing external competition that Mazenod enters, with the College seeing close to 40 years of continuous participation. It is the biggest curriculum competition in Australia and has many participants from over 40 different countries. Unfortunately this year, our participation was curtailed, breaking Mazenod’s strong tradition of participation. However, our students are looking forward to re-joining the academic fray next year!

Finally, it is important to remember that our true ministry at Mazenod is Catholic values. So as we celebrate another successful year at the College and look forward to future successes we must also keep the following in mind:

The true spirit of delight, the exaltation, the sense of being more than Man, which is the touchstone of the highest excellence, is to be found in mathematics as surely as poetry. Bertrand Russell

Michael MacNeill and Divya Mrock