Year 10 Maths NSW Syllabus Overview
The Year 10 Maths NSW Syllabus builds on Year 9 and prepares students for senior maths pathways. It strengthens skills in Algebra, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry, Measurement, Statistics & Probability, Finance and Working Mathematically (problem solving, reasoning, communication).
Year 10 Maths NSW Syllabus Topics
Term 1
Algebra • Coordinate Geometry • Geometry Foundations
Algebra and Equations
- Solving and verifying linear and quadratic equations
- Algebraic manipulation and factorisation
- Simultaneous equations, inequalities, algebraic reasoning
Internal: Algebra Made Easy ·
Linear Equations Practice
External: Khan Academy (Algebra Basics)
Coordinate Geometry
- Graphing linear and non-linear relationships
- Interpreting gradients and intercepts
- Quadratic graphs and parabolas
Internal: Straight Lines: Gradient & Intercept ·
Parabola Guide ·
Number Line Maths Game
External: BBC Bitesize (Straight Line Graphs)
Geometry Foundations
- Revision and extension of Pythagoras’ theorem
- Geometric reasoning and problem solving
Internal: Pythagoras Practice Test
Term 2
Trigonometry • 3D Spatial • Indices & Surds
Trigonometry and Advanced Geometry
- Trigonometric ratios in real-world problems
- Angles of elevation/depression, bearings
- Similarity and congruence
Internal: Trigonometry Guide
External: MathsIsFun (Trigonometry)
3D Spatial Relations
- Surface area and volume of composite solids
- Cones, pyramids, spheres; real-life measurement contexts
Internal: Geometry Formulae · Triangles, Quads & Circles
Indices and Surds
- Index laws, simplifying expressions
- Scientific notation; introduction to irrational numbers
Internal: Indices Guide
External: Khan Academy (Exponents & Radicals)
Term 3
Finance • Relationships • Parabolas
Financial Mathematics
- Simple and compound interest
- Depreciation, investments, budgeting and loans
Internal: Simple Interest Guide
External: Khan Academy (Finance)
Linear and Non-Linear Relationships
- Gradient as rate of change
- Graphing quadratic and exponential relationships
- Connecting algebraic models to graphs
Internal: Straight Lines Guide ·
Parabola Guide
External: Purplemath (Straight Lines)
Parabolas and Quadratic Graphs
- Vertex, axis of symmetry, intercepts, turning point
- Solving quadratics using graphs; modelling real situations
- Graphing: y = ax² + bx + c
External: Purplemath (Quadratic Graphs)
Term 4
Statistics • Probability • Revision
Statistics and Data Analysis
- Collecting and interpreting data
- Box plots, histograms, scatter plots
- Correlation and trend analysis
External: Math Planet (Statistics)
Probability
- Theoretical and experimental probability
- Multi-step probability problems
- Using data to make informed predictions
Internal: Probability Guide
Revision & Senior Preparation
- Consolidation of Stage 5 concepts
- Exam prep, reasoning, communication strategies
External: NESA (Official Curriculum Info)
Assessment for Year 10 Maths (Typical Structure)
Many schools use four formal assessment tasks, each worth 25% of the overall grade:
- Task 1 (Term 1, Week 10): Project — Algebra, Equations & Coordinate Geometry
- Task 2 (Term 2, Week 6): Exam — Trigonometry, Geometry, 3D Measurement, Indices
- Task 3 (Term 3, Week 6): Exam — Finance, Parabolas, Relationships
- Task 4 (Term 4, Week 5): Exam — Statistics, Probability, Overall Revision
💡 Tip: In many schools, students may bring a handwritten double-sided A4 reference sheet and an approved scientific calculator.
Levels of Mathematics in Year 10
NSW schools typically offer different levels in Year 10:
- 5.1 (Standard): for students aiming for non-advanced pathways
- 5.2 (Intermediate): a balanced course covering essential concepts
- 5.3 (Advanced): more challenging and algebra-intensive (preparation for senior Advanced/Extension)
How to Succeed in Year 10 Mathematics
- Practise regularly instead of cramming
- Understand concepts (why it works), not just memorise steps
- Attempt mixed problem types and review errors
- Use past papers and school topic tests
- Ask questions early when something feels confusing
Related Resources
Internal (Aussie Math Tutor NSW)
Trusted External (Authority Links)
Conclusion
Year 10 Maths in NSW is a crucial stepping stone toward senior school success. It strengthens reasoning, builds confidence, and introduces higher-level concepts needed for Years 11 and 12.
If your child needs extra support, explore our resources and tutoring programs: Aussie Math Tutor NSW Services.
