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Question Booklet 1

SACE SACE Stage 2 Specialist Mathematics Free Online Pack 0 — Question Booklet 1

Read Question Booklet 1 online for free, including every question, worked solution, marking note and diagnostic action. No public PDF download or checkout is provided.

SACE Stage 2 Examination 2026 Edition - Pack 0 v1.0
Question Booklet 1 is free to read in your browser. There is no public checkout or PDF download.

Exam-pack paper structure

This full-length showcase paper is available to read online.

Question Booklet 1

7 questions

55 marks

Estimated duration: Approximately 65 minutes for this question booklet; 130 minutes across both question booklets

Reading: Approximately 65 minutes · Writing: 130 minutes across both question booklets

Read Question Booklet 1 online

Skill Align

Skill Align SACE Stage 2 Specialist Mathematics - Pack 0 - Question Booklet 1

Questions 1-7 | 55 marks | one part of a 100-mark, 130-minute complete examination

Question booklet
Question Booklet 1
Recommended time
Approximately 65 minutes
Complete examination
130 minutes across both question booklets
Assessment
55 marks

SACE Stage 2 Specialist Mathematics - examination conditions

This bookletQuestions 1-7 - 55 marks - approximately 65 minutes
Complete examinationQuestion Booklets 1 and 2 - 100 marks - 130 minutes
  • Answer all questions and write your answers in this question booklet.
  • Examination materials are Question Booklet 1, Question Booklet 2, the current official SACE formula sheet and the candidate registration label. The supervising centre supplies the formula sheet and label separately; neither is bundled in this Skill Align PDF.
  • Show appropriate working and steps of logic. State numerical answers correct to three significant figures unless a question instructs otherwise.
  • Use black or blue pen. A sharp dark pencil may be used for diagrams and graphs.
  • You may bring two unfolded A4 sheets, using all four sides, containing your own handwritten notes.
  • You may use either two approved graphics calculators or one approved graphics calculator and one scientific calculator. Computer algebra system (CAS) calculators are not permitted. Scientific-calculator memory must be cleared; graphics-calculator memory does not need to be cleared.
Candidate name/identifier: ____________________ Calculator 1 brand/model: ____________________ Calculator 2 brand/model: ____________________

Question Booklet 1

Answer all questions 1-7. Show complete working and steps of logic. Give numerical answers to three significant figures unless otherwise instructed.

Question 1

8 marks
For ninmathbb N, let S_n=sum_(r=1)^(n)r(r+1). Prove by mathematical induction that S_n=frac(n(n+1)(n+2))3.
(a) 1 mark
Verify the statement for n=1.
(b) 2 marks
State the induction hypothesis for n=k.
(c) 5 marks
Complete the inductive step and conclusion.

Question 2

8 marks
Let z=-2+2sqrt3,i.
(a) 2 marks
Express z in modulus-argument form using a principal argument.
(b) 3 marks
Find z³ in exact Cartesian form.
(c) 3 marks
Find z⁻¹ in exact Cartesian form.

Question 3

8 marks
Consider f(x)=((2x-1) / (x+2)).
(a) 2 marks
Find the vertical and horizontal asymptotes.
(b) 2 marks
Find both axis intercepts.
(c) 2 marks
Find f'(x) and state whether stationary points exist.
(d) 2 marks
State the range of f.

Question 4

8 marks
Solve w³=-8. Plot the three solutions on the supplied Argand axes.
Diagram Preview -3-2-1123-3-2-1123Re(z) Im(z)
(a) 1 mark
Write -8 in modulus-argument form.
(b) 3 marks
Find the three roots in modulus-argument form.
(c) 2 marks
Give the roots in exact Cartesian form.
(d) 2 marks
Complete the Argand diagram.

Question 5

8 marks
Let mathbf a=(1,2,-2) and mathbf b=(2,-1,2).
(a) 2 marks
Find mathbf a × mathbf b.
(b) 2 marks
Find |mathbf a| and |mathbf b|.
(c) 2 marks
Find the angle between the vectors to three significant figures.
(d) 2 marks
Find the vector projection of mathbf a onto mathbf b.

Question 6

7 marks
Use integration by parts to evaluate an integral involving xln x.
(a) 4 marks
Find int xln x,dx.
(b) 3 marks
Hence evaluate int_1^e xln x,dx.

Question 7

8 marks
The curves y=2x and y=x² enclose a finite region.
(a) 2 marks
Find the points of intersection.
(b) 3 marks
Find the exact enclosed area.
(c) 3 marks
Find the maximum vertical separation and where it occurs.

SACE Stage 2 subjects and examinations are administered by the SACE Board of South Australia. Skill Align is an independent publisher and is not affiliated with, authorised by, sponsored by, approved by, or endorsed by the SACE Board of South Australia or the South Australian Government.

Copyright (c) 2026 Skill Align. Free for personal, non-commercial online viewing at https://skillalign.au. You may share the Skill Align page link. Except as permitted by law or with Skill Align's prior written permission, the pack itself must not be resold, copied, redistributed, republished, automatically extracted, or uploaded to a question bank.

Worked Solutions And Marking Guide

Question 1

(a) S_1=2=((1 × 2 × 3) / (3)).

Both sides equal 2.

(b) Assume S_k=frac(k(k+1)(k+2))3.

The hypothesis is stated for an arbitrary positive integer k.

(c) begin(aligned) S_(k+1) &=S_k+(k+1)(k+2) &=((k(k+1)(k+2)) / (3))+(k+1)(k+2) &=(k+1)(k+2)(((k) / (3))+1) &=(((k+1)(k+2)(k+3)) / (3)). end(aligned) Therefore, by mathematical induction, sum_(r=1)^(n)r(r+1)=((n(n+1)(n+2)) / (3)) for every positive integer n.

The displayed equality chain adds the k+1 term, substitutes the induction hypothesis, factors the common product and simplifies to the required k+1 form before the formal conclusion.

Detailed marking criteria

Part a (1 mark)

Award the 1 available mark for the following observable evidence: evaluates both sides at n=1.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part b (2 marks)

Award the 2 available marks for the following observable evidence: states the formula at k; identifies the assumption as the induction hypothesis.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part c (5 marks)

Award the 5 available marks for the following observable evidence: starts from S_(k+1)=S_k+(k+1)(k+2); substitutes S_k=frac(k(k+1)(k+2))3; factors (k+1)(k+2); simplifies explicitly to frac((k+1)(k+2)(k+3))3; states the conclusion for every positive integer n.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Question 2

(a) z=4operatorname(cis)(2pi / 3).

The modulus is 4, and the quadrant-II argument is 2pi / 3.

(b) z³=64.

By de Moivre's theorem, z³=4^3operatorname(cis)(2pi)=64.

(c) z⁻¹=((-1-sqrt3,i) / (8)).

Use bar z / |z|²=(-2-2sqrt3 i) / 16.

Detailed marking criteria

Part a (2 marks)

Award the 2 available marks for the following observable evidence: calculates |z|=4; states arg z=2pi / 3.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part b (3 marks)

Award the 3 available marks for the following observable evidence: cubes the modulus; triples the argument; converts the result to 64.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part c (3 marks)

Award the 3 available marks for the following observable evidence: uses the conjugate-over-modulus-squared rule; uses |z|²=16; simplifies both Cartesian components.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Question 3

(a) x=-2 and y=2.

Write f(x)=2-frac5(x+2).

(b) (1 / 2,0) and (0,-1 / 2).

Set the numerator to zero, then substitute x=0.

(c) f'(x)=frac5((x+2)²)>0; there are no stationary points.

Differentiate 2-5 / (x+2).

(d) mathbb Rsetminus(2).

The equation f(x)=2 has no solution, while every other real value is attained.

Detailed marking criteria

Part a (2 marks)

Award the 2 available marks for the following observable evidence: identifies x=-2; identifies y=2.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part b (2 marks)

Award the 2 available marks for the following observable evidence: finds the x-intercept; finds the y-intercept.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part c (2 marks)

Award the 2 available marks for the following observable evidence: obtains 5 / (x+2)²; uses its positivity to exclude stationary points.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part d (2 marks)

Award the 2 available marks for the following observable evidence: excludes y=2; states all other real values are in the range.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Question 4

(a) -8=8operatorname(cis)pi.

Use modulus 8 and argument pi.

(b) 2operatorname(cis)(pi / 3), 2operatorname(cis)pi, 2operatorname(cis)(5pi / 3).

Use arguments (pi+2kpi) / 3, k=0,1,2.

(c) 1+sqrt3i, -2, 1-sqrt3i.

Convert each polar root using exact trigonometric values.

(d) Three equally spaced points on the circle |w|=2 at the stated arguments.

Plot (1,sqrt3), (-2,0) and (1,-sqrt3).

1+√3i-21-√3iRe(z) Im(z)
Completed solution diagram

Detailed marking criteria

Part a (1 mark)

Award the 1 available mark for the following observable evidence: states a valid modulus-argument form.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part b (3 marks)

Award the 3 available marks for the following observable evidence: takes the cube root of the modulus; uses the complete root-angle formula; lists three distinct roots.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part c (2 marks)

Award the 2 available marks for the following observable evidence: converts the upper and lower roots; includes the real root -2.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part d (2 marks)

Award the 2 available marks for the following observable evidence: plots all three roots at the correct coordinates; shows their equal radius and 120^circ spacing.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Question 5

(a) -4.

1(2)+2(-1)+(-2)(2)=-4.

(b) |mathbf a|=|mathbf b|=3.

Each squared magnitude is 9.

(c) 116^circ.

costheta=-4 / 9, so theta=116.388ldots^circ.

(d) operatorname(proj)_(mathbf b)mathbf a=(-8 / 9,4 / 9,-8 / 9).

Multiply mathbf b by (mathbf a × mathbf b) / |mathbf b|²=-4 / 9.

Detailed marking criteria

Part a (2 marks)

Award the 2 available marks for the following observable evidence: forms the component products; sums them to -4.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part b (2 marks)

Award the 2 available marks for the following observable evidence: calculates |mathbf a|=3; calculates |mathbf b|=3.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part c (2 marks)

Award the 2 available marks for the following observable evidence: uses costheta=(mathbf a × mathbf b) / (|mathbf a||mathbf b|); reports 116^circ.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part d (2 marks)

Award the 2 available marks for the following observable evidence: finds the scalar projection coefficient -4 / 9; multiplies mathbf b componentwise.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Question 6

(a) ((x²) / (2))ln x-((x²) / (4))+C.

Take u=ln x and dv=x,dx, then integrate the remaining x / 2 term.

(b) ((e²+1) / (4)).

At e the antiderivative is e² / 4; at 1 it is -1 / 4.

Detailed marking criteria

Part a (4 marks)

Award the 4 available marks for the following observable evidence: selects u=ln x; selects v=x² / 2; applies the integration-by-parts formula; simplifies the antiderivative.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part b (3 marks)

Award the 3 available marks for the following observable evidence: substitutes the upper bound exactly; substitutes the lower bound exactly; subtracts to obtain (e²+1) / 4.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Question 7

(a) (0,0) and (2,4).

Solve x²=2x.

(b) 4 / 3 square units.

int_0²(2x-x²),dx=[x²-x³ / 3]_0²=4 / 3.

(c) The maximum separation is 1, at x=1.

For d(x)=2x-x², d'(x)=2-2x=0 at x=1, and d''=-2<0.

Detailed marking criteria

Part a (2 marks)

Award the 2 available marks for the following observable evidence: finds x=0,2; states both coordinate pairs.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part b (3 marks)

Award the 3 available marks for the following observable evidence: identifies the upper-minus-lower integrand; uses the correct bounds; evaluates the exact area.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Part c (3 marks)

Award the 3 available marks for the following observable evidence: defines the vertical separation; finds its stationary point x=1; classifies and evaluates the maximum.

Acceptable alternatives: Accept algebraically equivalent exact forms and any logically equivalent sequence of valid steps.; For an approximate answer, accept calculator-supported values that round correctly from unrounded intermediate values.

Do not credit by itself: Do not award evidence that is only asserted when working, proof or interpretation is required.; Do not accept premature rounding that changes the final three-significant-figure answer.

Diagnostic Checklist

TopicQuestionsMarksMarks LostAction
Mathematical Induction Q1 8 ___ Rework Q1: practise induction base hypothesis algebraic step. Check every labelled part against its observable evidence and retain exact or unrounded values until the final answer.
Complex Numbers Q2 8 ___ Rework Q2: practise modulus argument de moivre reciprocal. Check every labelled part against its observable evidence and retain exact or unrounded values until the final answer.
Functions, Sketching and Graphs Q3 8 ___ Rework Q3: practise rational asymptotes intercepts derivative range. Check every labelled part against its observable evidence and retain exact or unrounded values until the final answer.
Complex Numbers Q4 8 ___ Rework Q4: practise complex roots exact cartesian argand plot. Check every labelled part against its observable evidence and retain exact or unrounded values until the final answer.
Vectors in Three Dimensions Q5 8 ___ Rework Q5: practise dot product angle projection. Check every labelled part against its observable evidence and retain exact or unrounded values until the final answer.
Integration Techniques and Applications Q6 7 ___ Rework Q6: practise integration by parts exact definite integral. Check every labelled part against its observable evidence and retain exact or unrounded values until the final answer.
Integration Techniques and Applications Q7 8 ___ Rework Q7: practise intersection area maximum separation. Check every labelled part against its observable evidence and retain exact or unrounded values until the final answer.

What is included

Question Booklet 1 questions (55 marks)

Question Booklet 2 questions (45 marks)

Worked solutions and marking guidance shown online

Diagnostic checklist shown online

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Independent practice resource

SACE Stage 2 subjects and examinations are administered by the SACE Board of South Australia. Skill Align is an independent publisher and is not affiliated with, authorised by, sponsored by, approved by, or endorsed by the SACE Board of South Australia or the South Australian Government.

Each exam pack is listed with a pack label so parents do not buy the same pack twice. Future packs will use the next label for that state or curriculum.

Related Online Practice and curriculum

Pack 0 is a free online resource. These links open the related subscription practice, curriculum coverage, and free public sample questions.

Questions about this exam pack

What is included in Specialist Mathematics Free Online - Pack 0?

Pack 0 includes 2 full-length showcase papers, worked solutions, marking guidance and diagnostic checklists, all shown online.

Is Pack 0 really free?

Yes. Pack 0 can be read online without checkout or a monthly subscription.

Can I download Pack 0 as a PDF?

No. Pack 0 is intentionally online-only and no downloadable PDF is provided.

Are these official assessment authority examination questions?

No. The questions are original Skill Align material. Skill Align is independent and is not affiliated with, authorised by, sponsored by, approved by, or endorsed by any state assessment authority.