Zimbabwe Form 3 Mathematics Syllabus

This syllabus outlines the curriculum for Form 3 Mathematics in Zimbabwe, covering various topics designed to build a strong mathematical foundation. The syllabus aims to equip learners with problem-solving skills and the ability to apply mathematical concepts in diverse contexts. It emphasizes learner-centered teaching methodologies, encouraging active participation and the use of ICT tools.

Form 3 Competency Matrix and Learning Objectives

The Form 3 syllabus is structured around a competency matrix that outlines specific learning objectives for each topic. Learners are expected to develop proficiency in various skills, including:

• Using mathematical symbols, terms, and definitions: This involves understanding the language of mathematics and applying it correctly in problem-solving.
• Constructing mathematical models: Learners should be able to translate real-world problems into mathematical representations to facilitate analysis and solution.
• Drawing inferences from data: This includes interpreting mathematical data and drawing meaningful conclusions.
• Communicating mathematical ideas: Learners should be able to express mathematical concepts clearly and effectively in different contexts.
• Solving algebraic and geometric problems: This encompasses applying algebraic and geometric principles to solve a wide range of problems.
• Applying mathematics in other learning areas: Learners should be able to connect mathematical concepts to other subjects and real-life situations.
• Using ICT tools: Learners are encouraged to utilize ICT tools for problem-solving and research.
• Conducting research projects: This includes undertaking research projects, potentially related to enterprise.

Topics Covered in Form 3

The Form 3 Mathematics syllabus covers the following topics:

1. Real Numbers: Order of operations, irrational numbers, number patterns. Learners will perform arithmetic operations, identify rational and irrational numbers, and explore number patterns.

2. Sets: Set builder notation, Venn diagrams with up to three subsets. Learners will describe sets using set builder notation, draw Venn diagrams, and solve problems using Venn diagrams.

3. Financial Mathematics: Bank statements, compound interest, commission, hire purchase. Learners will interpret bank statements, calculate compound interest and commission, and solve problems related to hire purchase.

4. Measures and Mensuration: Perimeter and area of combined shapes, volume of cylinders. Learners will calculate the perimeter and area of combined shapes and the volume of cylinders.

5. Graphs: Functional notation, linear graphs, quadratic graphs, distance-time graphs, speed-time graphs. Learners will use functional notation, draw and interpret graphs of linear and quadratic functions, and solve problems involving travel graphs.

6. Variation: Direct and inverse variation. Learners will express direct and inverse variation algebraically, distinguish between the two, and solve related problems.

7. Algebra: Algebraic fractions, quadratic expressions, factorization, simultaneous equations, quadratic equations, inequalities, indices, logarithms. Learners will simplify algebraic fractions, factorize quadratic expressions, solve simultaneous and quadratic equations, solve inequalities, and work with indices and logarithms.

8. Geometry: Angles of elevation and depression, three-figure bearing, compass bearing, properties of polygons, scale factor, similar figures, construction of triangles and quadrilaterals, rotational symmetry. Learners will construct and solve problems involving angles of elevation and depression, work with bearings, describe properties of polygons, solve problems involving similar figures, construct triangles and quadrilaterals, and identify rotational symmetry.

9. Statistics: Data collection, classification, and representation (frequency tables, bar graphs, pie charts, histograms, frequency polygons), mean, median, mode, assumed mean. Learners will collect, classify, and represent data, calculate measures of central tendency using various methods, and interpret statistical graphs.

10. Trigonometry: Pythagorean theorem, trigonometric ratios of acute and obtuse angles. Learners will apply the Pythagorean theorem, calculate trigonometric ratios, and solve problems involving right-angled triangles.

11. Vectors: Types of vectors (translation, negative, equal, parallel, position), addition, subtraction, scalar multiplication, magnitude, combined vector operations. Learners will describe and represent different types of vectors, perform vector operations, and solve related problems.

12. Matrices: Addition, subtraction, scalar multiplication, matrix multiplication, determinants, singular and non-singular matrices, inverse matrices, solving simultaneous equations using matrices. Learners will perform matrix operations, calculate determinants, find inverse matrices, and solve simultaneous equations using matrices.

13. Transformation: Translation, reflection, rotation, enlargement. Learners will perform transformations on the Cartesian plane, describe transformations fully, and use matrices for transformations.

14. Probability: Experimental and theoretical probability, single events. Learners will calculate probabilities of single events, distinguish between experimental and theoretical probability, and solve related problems.