23/09/2026
MATHEMATICS // Over the final four weeks of Term 3, our Year 9 Excellence classes undertook an inquiry task that embedded Indigenous perspectives into Mathematics through an exploration of projectile motion and the woomera.
Students began by researching the scientific, historical and mathematical background of the woomera and reflecting on their understanding before and after their research. Working collaboratively, students collected their own data using a ball launcher and uploaded their recorded videos to an online tracking tool to obtain accurate coordinates. They then applied their Term 3 knowledge of quadratics in turning-point form and trigonometry to develop and refine mathematical models of the projectile’s path.
Students also tested whether their models were reasonable, justified their assumptions and identified each model’s strengths and limitations.
The inquiry showed students how mathematics can be used to investigate real-world contexts while developing their mathematical reasoning, digital skills, collaboration and appreciation of Indigenous knowledge and perspectives.
