Mathematics Extension 1 · Stage 6

Proof and Combinatorics

Mathematical induction and the binomial theorem, plus the counting techniques that Extension 1 questions assume fluently.

Dot points
4
Module
6 of 6
Course
Mathematics Extension 1
01What this module asks of you

The 4 syllabus dot points in Proof and Combinatorics

These are the statements the Mathematics Extension 1 syllabus makes about Proof and Combinatorics. Dux records each one against the questions you answer, so you can see which of them you have actually been tested on and which have never been asked.

  1. 01

    Proof by Mathematical Induction

    The three-part structure of an induction proof, including extensions to inequalities and divisibility.

  2. 02

    The Binomial Theorem

    Expanding a binomial power, the general term, and using the theorem to find a specified coefficient.

  3. 03

    Combinatorics and Counting

    Permutations, combinations, and counting arrangements with restrictions, which underpin the binomial coefficients used elsewhere.

  4. 04

    Proof and Disproof

    Direct proof, contradiction and counterexample, and choosing the method that suits the claim.

02How it is examined

What a Proof and Combinatorics question asks you to do

HSC Mathematics Extension 1 - Trial Paper Shape is 70 marks in 120 minutes. Questions on Proof and Combinatorics are not one shape repeated: the command word decides what the marker is looking for, and the mark value decides how much of it. These are the ones Mathematics Extension 1 uses.

analyse3–5calculate2–4calculate1explain2–4identify1justify4–6justify4–6justify4–6solve3–5solve4–6solve3–5

Dux writes practice for this module in exactly these shapes, so the drill is the same task the paper sets — not a general knowledge quiz with the module name on it.

03Where this module sits

Proof and Combinatorics in the Mathematics Extension 1 course

Proof and Combinatorics is module 6 of 6 in Mathematics Extension 1. Students routinely lose marks because a question spans two modules, so the neighbouring modules are worth reading next to this one.

Find the Proof and Combinatorics dot points you have never been asked

Dux diagnoses Mathematics Extension 1 dot point by dot point, then writes questions in the shape this course marks. Written answers come back marked against the bands.