Further Modelling with Functions
How do I solve modelling problems?
- There will be no one-size-fits-all step-by-step guide to solving modelling questions
- A combination of skills and problem-solving skills will be needed
Assumptions, criticisms and refinements in modelling
- Modelling is a large part of A level mathematics
- Assumptions and refinements to models often need to be considered
- Real-life general knowledge and common sense can really help in mathematical modelling
Exam Tip
Read – and re-read – the question carefully. Try to “get involved” in the context of the question – however boring it may be!
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- Imagine what happens to a stone as you throw it from a cliff
- What would it be like to manage a toy factory?
Draw a diagram – sketch a graph of the function being used as the model.
If you are completely stuck try “doing something” with the maths. For example, if there’s a quadratic function – sketch it, factorise it, solve it. Or if there’s a polynomial – use factor theorem and algebraic division to factorise it.
Worked Example
