Real-Life Modelling Within a Traditional Curriculum: Lessons from a Singapore Experience

Abstract

Many mathematics teachers in Singapore are not familiar with designing, implementing and facilitating modelling activities in the classroom. In this chapter, we report an experiment in which a teacher with no experience in mathematical modelling made an attempt to conduct a modelling activity in his mathematics class at a local secondary school. Data in the form of students’ work and feedback, lesson videos and interviews were collected. We examine the reactions from students, and discuss the lessons gained from this experience. From the data collected, it appears that while students were generally motivated in carrying out the task, they had some difficulties handling the mathematics involved and the modelling process. The teacher was able to design a reasonable task, but had some difficulty with classroom implementation of the activity.