Nelson Essential Maths 11 - 12 for QCE

Nelson QCE Essential Mathematics Units 1–4 helps students connect maths to everyday life through practical, real-world applications. With a focus on problem-solving, mathematical literacy, and accessible technology, this series builds the skills students need for work, community, and further learning.

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Real-world maths for real-life success

Nelson QCE Essential Mathematics Units 1–4 is designed to make mathematics accessible, engaging, and relevant for every student. Each chapter begins with a real-world problem and guides students through practical applications of maths in everyday contexts—from budgeting and measurement to using spreadsheets and online tools.

The series supports mathematical literacy with keyword activities and encourages structured problem-solving using the WHAT? SOLVE, CHECK, PRESENT framework. Built on cognitive science principles like spacing, retrieval, and interleaving, the course structure helps students retain and apply knowledge effectively.

With colour-coded problem-solving and complex questions, thematic chapters, and regular review and practice sets, Nelson QCE Essential Mathematics empowers students to build confidence and competence in numeracy for life beyond the classroom.

Practical, relatable content

Students apply maths to real-life situations using accessible tools like spreadsheets and internet-based tasks.

Built on the science of learning

Spacing, retrieval, and interleaving strategies help students retain and recall key concepts effectively.

Structured for success

Each chapter ends with a keyword activity, review exercise, and a solution to a real-world problem.

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Make maths meaningful and relevant

Engage students with a thematic approach that connects mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios, helping them see the value of maths in everyday life and future pathways.

Real-life Maths

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Support differentiated learning with visual cues

Help students navigate their learning journey with clearly colour-coded Problem-Solving [PS] and Complex [C] questions, making it easier to identify and tackle tasks at the right level of challenge.

Colour-coded Questions

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Focus on deep understanding, not shortcuts

Empower students with a strong foundation in mathematical thinking through meaningful, skill-building content—without relying on exam tricks or shortcuts.

Skill-building Content

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Build confidence in mathematical language

Strengthen students’ ability to communicate and interpret mathematical ideas with keyword activities and a focus on terminology, supporting both literacy and numeracy development.

Maths Literacy

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Guide students through structured problem-solving

Support students in developing a consistent and logical approach to problem-solving with the WHAT? SOLVE, CHECK, PRESENT framework, making it easier to plan, execute, and reflect on their solutions.

Problem-Solving Framework

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Learn all about the new Essential Maths 11 - 12 QLD series from our expert author team

What's new with the QCE Essential Maths Syllabus?

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Meet your expert author team

Judy Binns
Sue Thomson

Judy Binns

Judy Binns is an experienced author and former head of mathematics who has taught in urban and rural schools. She has an interest in motivating students with learning difficulties, with wide experience in teaching senior practical mathematics courses. With Sue Thomson, Judy has written for senior practical mathematics in Queensland, NSW, Victoria and WA.

Sue Thomson

Sue Thomson is a prolific and successful author with an interest in language development, financial literacy and making mathematics accessible to all. She is an experienced educational leader, examination writer and curriculum writer. Sue has written many successful series for Queensland, NSW, Victoria and WA, including the Access to Prevocational Mathematics series.