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how much harder is 3 unit than 2 unit (1 Viewer)

big_bang344

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Hello! Just wondering, how much harder is extension maths compared to 2 unit maths. We had parent teacher interviews the other day and i found out that most of the top kids in the top maths class were told that if they chose 3 unit maths in year 11, they would struggle. I was shocked because they are really good at maths. And yeh.. just wanted to see some opinions and views.
 

kooliskool

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Well, I think the major difference between 2 unit and 3 unit is if you are good with algebra. In 3 unit, you manipulate algebra at a more sophisticated level than 2 unit kids. Also with 3 unit, you learn more probability and something called counting techniques.

So ya, if you are thinking whether to choose 2 or 3 unit, think if you are good at algebra. But always the advice is to take the harder one first, then drop down later, because there's no way to do the converse.
 

jnney

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In 2 unit, you can memorize formulas and plug them into your questions during the test. 100%

In 3 unit, you cannot rote learn. i.e. you cannot learn 3u mathematics by memorizing formulas. You need to understand the concepts: where the formula/something is derived from and why it works. It is a test of understanding.
 

cutemouse

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In 3 unit you do more topics. In my opinion it's not THAT much harder. It literally is an extension of the work you do in 2U.

And yes you need to be good with your algebra.
 

funnytomato

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Well, I think the major difference between 2 unit and 3 unit is if you are good with algebra. In 3 unit, you manipulate algebra at a more sophisticated level than 2 unit kids. Also with 3 unit, you learn more probability and something called counting techniques.

So ya, if you are thinking whether to choose 2 or 3 unit, think if you are good at algebra. But always the advice is to take the harder one first, then drop down later, because there's no way to do the converse.
+1
teachers can suggest you what to do based on what they (think they) know about you, but they cannot stop you choosing a subject (with a few exceptions)
just do 3u in year 11 and see how you go,it doesn't count towards anything anyways, worst scenario is that you have to do 13 units or somthing
 

iSplicer

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The difference between 2u and 3u is *quite* significant in terms of difficulty. In 3u, you need a much better understanding of algebra and calculus, and you must show some ability to manipulate your algebra/equations to arrive at the desired results. It takes a lot of practice, but it's ultimately very killable.

The jump between 3u and 4u is much larger iin my opinion.
 

LightXT

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2U : Kids get 100% with an hour to spare
3U : Less kids get 95-100% with few minutes to spare.
4U : Same kids would be lucky to get above 85%.

I've seen it happen before.
 

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