Sec 2 Math Syllabus: Complete Overview for Parents (2026)

Secondary 2 builds on Sec 1 foundations with new topics: quadratic expressions, direct and inverse proportion, inequalities, trigonometry, and congruent & similar triangles. Performing well in the Sec 2 streaming exam is important as it determines your child’s subject combinations in Sec 3 & 4.

With the streaming exam at stake, every topic counts. Our secondary math tuition helps students master these critical Sec 2 concepts and build the strong foundation needed to excel in their streaming exam and beyond.

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✅ Key Topics Covered in Sec 2

1. Simultaneous Linear Equations

Students learn to solve a pair of linear equations with two unknowns using:

• Graphical method

• Elimination method

• Substitution method

2. Linear Inequalities

This topic introduces students to:

• Solving inequalities with one unknown

• Representing solutions on a number line

• Applying inequalities to word problems (e.g., finding valid ranges)

3. Algebraic Expansion

Students go beyond basic simplification and tackle:

• Expansion of long polynomials

• Quadratic expressions

• Special identities (e.g., a²−b² , (a + b)², (a – b)²)

4. Algebraic Factorisation

Students reverse the process of expansion by learning:

• Group factorisation

• Quadratic factorisation

• Reverse of the Special identities

5. Quadratic Equations

This is a major step up in complexity. Students learn to:

• Solve quadratic equations by factorisation

• Translate real-world problems into quadratic equations
  
  They develop the ability to interpret questions and model situations using algebra.

6. Quadratic Graphs

Students are introduced to:

• The shape and properties of parabolas

• Plotting quadratic functions

• Interpreting real-life scenarios using quadratic graphs (e.g., projectile motion)

7. Algebraic Fractions

A more complex form of algebra, where students must:

• Simplify expressions involving algebraic fractions

• Perform multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction

• Solve fractional equations
  
  This requires strong fluency with factorisation and LCMs.

8. Algebraic Formulae

Students work on:

• Making one variable the subject of a formula

9. Direct and Inverse Proportions

Students explore:

• Relationships where quantities increase/decrease together

• Formulas and graphs representing proportionality

10. Congruence and Similarity

Students examine:

• Conditions for figures to be congruent or similar

• Map scale problems
  
  They apply geometric reasoning and proportional thinking.

11. Pythagoras’ Theorem

Used for calculating unknown sides in right-angled triangles. Students must:

• Identify when to apply the theorem

• Solve geometric word problems

12. Trigonometry

This powerful new topic teaches students how to:

• Use sine, cosine, and tangent ratios

• Find unknown angles or sides in right-angled triangles

• Apply trigonometry to real-life problems

13. Volume and Surface Area

Building on Sec 1, students now handle:

• Pyramids, cones, spheres

• Composite solids
  
  These problems often combine formulas and visualization.

14. Probability

Students develop an intuitive understanding of chance by:

• Calculating probabilities of single events

• Using basic probability rules and diagrams

15. Data Analysis

Students analyze and represent data using:

• Dot diagrams

• Stem-and-leaf plots

• Histograms

• Measures of central tendency: mean, median, mode

• Applications in real-world data sets