Sex differences in achievement in year 12 mathematics and non-routine problem solving

In 1991 all Victorian year 12 students undertook the new Victorian Certificate of Education Mathematics Study designed by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Board. This paper presents the results of a study into sex difference in achievement in the new VCE Mathematics study in Victoria. An important goal of the study designers was to encourage more equal participation in senior secondary mathematics by females and males and to include assessment of mathematical skills previously not assessed in a year 12 course in Victoria. These new tasks could conceivably change the degree and direction of sex difference in achievement in senior secondary mathematics.