THE TASK
Students were set the task of selecting a credit
card that will be appropriate for their needs after they leave school.
They achieved this by comparing their features and by using spreadsheet
software to help calculate the actual cost of borrowing money and
the repayment schedule for a significant purchase. Students were
required to justify their choices. Activities also identified advantages,
disadvantages and issues with credit cards.
ICT ENRICHMENT
-
A spreadsheet was used as a productivity
tool, enabling students to calculate, view and compare costs
and repayment schedules in detail.
-
Using formulae in the spreadsheet challenged
students' abstract understandings and demonstrated a purpose
for using algebra.
-
Estimation and other checking strategies
became important to ensure data and formulae were correct.
-
The Internet provided up-to-date information
about credit card costs, conditions and interest rates.
SUGGESTED RESOURCES
|
ASSESSMENT
- Discussion comments recorded anecdotally.
- Criteria for completion of the task developed by teacher and
students and used for teacher assessment and student self-assessment.
- Tables completed for each activity were assessed.
- Oral and written analysis of the data was assessed.
- Decision making process charts.
LEARNING AREA OUTCOMES
Mathematics
Appreciating Mathematics
 Confidence in
mathematics
Working Mathematically
Mathematical
strategies
Apply and
verify
Number
Understand
number
Understand
operations
Algebra
Expressing
generality
Health and Physical Education
Self-Management
Skills (aspects)
Based on a learning program developed by Greg Cook &
Peta Harrison. |
