Year 12: Algebra

2 dot points across 2 inquiry questions, in syllabus order. Each dot point has a focused answer, with exam-style questions and worked answers where available.

MS-A3 Types of Relationships: how do graphs model and describe practical situations?

A3.2 Graphs of practical situations: distinguish between linear and non-linear relationships, recognise exponential (and other non-linear) relationships from the shape of their graphs, and construct and interpret graphs of practical situations, including distance-time graphs and the limitations of models

How to tell linear from non-linear relationships, recognise exponential growth and decay and inverse relationships from their graph shapes, read and sketch distance-time and other practical graphs, and explain when a model stops being valid.

7 min read →

MS-A3 Types of Relationships: how can pairs of linear equations model and solve practical problems?

A3.1 Simultaneous linear equations: develop a pair of linear equations to model a practical situation, solve it graphically, and interpret the point of intersection, including break-even analysis (break-even point, profit and loss zones, and the meaning of the y-intercept)

How to set up two linear equations from a practical situation, graph them, read the point of intersection, and use it for break-even analysis (costs, income, profit and loss zones) and comparisons such as phone plans or supply and demand.

7 min read →