Making a Difference

Physics in Mathematical Mood

This booklet takes as its themes how physics can be taught in an appropriately mathematical way and how the beauty and power of mathematical reasoning can be conveyed to students.

Issues addressed by this booklet include:

• the mathematics students bring with them when beginning a post-16 course
• links between mathematics and physics courses
• how to improve problem solving and mathematical understanding
• the essential mathematical functions encountered in physics
• the importance of graphical skills and how they can be developed
• how information technology can be used to support students

The last section suggest ways forward for teachers, students, exam boards, universities, QCA and Government agencies funding education. Much of the difficulty of A level physics is perceived to lie in the mathematical nature of the subject. Yet a mathematical view of the world is intrinsic to physics. The booklet offers both practical suggestions for immediate use and views on how we can improve on the situation in the future.

Download Physics in Mathematical Mood (PDF 949 KB)

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