Using Cooperative Group Work

[b]Functions and their derivatives:[/b] the objective of this activity is to develop skills in working with functions, their derivatives and function notation. The suggested activity begins by asking students to explain what is meant by f'(3) and what is the difference between f(2) and f'(2). There follows a matching activity in which the function described has to be matched with a value for f(x) when x is given a value and the derivative function. Several questions are posed for the teacher to consider throughout the activity. The resources required for the activity are included.

[b]2D shapes explored through tangrams[/b]: the objectives of this activity are to identify and name 2D shapes, to establish angle properties of 2D shapes and to find areas and perimeters of 2D shapes using symbols. The suggested activity is based around a tangram as stimulus to explore properties of shapes. Several questions are posed for the teacher to consider along the way. The resources required for the activity are included.

[b]Equation of the tangent to a circle[/b]: the objective of this activity is to practise finding the equation of the tangent to a circle. The activity begins by requiring students to identify correct rearrangements of an equation of a circle. Students are required to be able to complete the square for this activity. The process finding the equation of the tangent to a circle is followed, but at each step students are given a variety of options and are require to explain which of the possible solutions are correct and be able to explain their thinking.

[b]Forces, motion and friction:[/b] the objective of this activity is to test understanding of routine questions on forces, motion and friction. It is suggested that students are placed in groups and allocated one of a series of forces diagrams. Students are required to devise a problem based upon that diagram. Several questions are posed for the teacher to consider throughout the activity. The resources required for the activity are included.

[b]Calculus vocabulary:[/b] the objective of this activity is to practise using the notation of calculus. Following a simple starter, the suggested activity is a matching activity in which students match cards which, whilst the notation is different, mathematically the cards mean the same thing. Several questions are posed for the teacher to consider along throughout the activity. The resources required for the activity are included.