8452
/www/nrich/html/content/id/8452/
5
2012-06-19T10:15:04
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<mdoxml version="1.0"><p>There are some differences in the ways maths and SET approach particular topics/terminology. It is helpful for all teachers to be aware of these. This list isn't exhaustive, so discuss it with colleagues and see what else you can add to it.<br></br>
<br></br>
Differences which can lead to confusion in students are:</p>
<ul>
<li>In maths a line of best fit on a scattergraph will be a straight line at KS3 and 4; in SET there are various ways in which graphs are constructed, depending on the purpose for the data.</li>
<li>Differences in approaches to algebra: e.g. balance method in mathematics vs formula triangles in science.</li>
<li>'Investigation' means different things in different departments.</li>
<li>'Evaluation', 'Proof' have specific mathematical meanings.</li>
<li>'Weight' is often mis-used in maths as being synonymous with 'mass'.</li>
<li>Notation for symbols can be confusing to students: in maths straight line graphs are often y-against-x; students often do not make the link to straight line graphs with other variable names.</li>
<li>Maths often uses neat, tidy and idealised diagrams, data and numbers; SET often makes use of real, noisy data and numbers.</li>
<li>DT has specific requirements for drawings, which are not observed in maths.</li>
<li>Use of mathematical symbols is particularly important for older students who are planning on studying mathematics or physics at university.
<ul>
<li>$\approx$ means 'approximately equal to' (safe to use)</li>
<li>$\therefore$ means 'Therefore'</li>
<li>$\sim$ means many things, but most basically means 'is the same order of magnitude as'</li>
<li>$\equiv$ means 'equal by definition'</li>
<li>$\Rightarrow$ is the implication symbol (use carefully or avoid if unsure)</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul></mdoxml>
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Key differences between maths and SET
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