Conference synopsis 20240805 - Flipbook - Page 46
SESSION A: Thursday, 11am-12pm (cont.)
A24 THE CRAFT OF MATHEMATICS
TEACHING: GETTING THE BALANCE RIGHT
Subtheme: Pedagogy
Naomi Ingram, University of Otago
(Year 7 to Year 10)
We know that students learn mathematics by actively
constructing their understanding through challenge,
discovery, and discussion. We also know that students need
time to consolidate their understanding and build their
confidence through practice. This workshop will explore how
to achieve this balance.
Remember: Delegates do need to have Python installed
on their computer or it can be installed from the Python.org
website or use a web-based version. Delegates should bring
their laptop and/or TI CAS Nspire CX II which has Python
built in. Python is not available on the Casio ClassPad FXCP400.
Key takeaways:
A26 NETWORK DECISION TOOLS IN VCE
GENERAL MATHS
1. Practical ideas to use when planning a unit of work.
Subtheme: Technology
A25 IMPLEMENTING PSEUDOCODE AND
ALGORITHMS IN PYTHON ON COMPUTER
AND CAS
Subtheme: Technology
Enzo Vozzo, Mentone Grammar
(Year 7 to Year 12)
The introduction of Pseudocode in the new Mathematical
Methods and Specialist Mathematics Study Design indicates
that algorithms and coding are beginning to be seen as
important. This presentation introduces the three key
elements of algorithm design: sequencing, decision-making
and repetition. These elements will be implemented using
the popular open-source computer language Python on a
computer and on the new TI CAS Nspire CX II calculator,
which has Python built into it. Delegates will have the choice
of coding a variety of simple algorithms to calculate the value
of pi (using the bisection method), generate Pythagorean
triples and primes, run simulations and define (create your
own) mathematical functions such as factorials, sine and
square roots. Python also handles complex numbers, with
the ability to calculate Euler’s identity in a single line of code!
No experience of coding or Python is required but would be
beneficial.
Key takeaways:
1. Introduction to pseudocode and algorithm design:
sequencing, decision-making and repetition.
2. Introduction to the popular open-source computer
language Python.
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3. Choice of writing code to calculate the value of pi,
generate Pythagorean triples, primes, run simulations, and
define functions such as sine and square roots in terms of
elementary arithmetic.
Angel Wong, St. Andrews Christian College, Brian
Lannen, Murray Mathematics Curriculum Services
(Year 11 to Year 12)
In this workshop, I will share valuable, time-saving resources
for teaching Networks and Decision Mathematics in VCE
General Mathematics. These resources include a detailed
spreadsheet for critical path analysis, a TI program for the
Hungarian algorithm, and Python programs for Dijkstra’s
algorithm and the Ford-Fulkerson algorithm (maximum
flow). Participants are encouraged to bring their TI-Nspire
CAS or laptops to store these files and follow along with the
demonstrations. Additionally, we will have the opportunity
to discuss and share further resources related to General
Mathematics and Python programming. This interactive
session is designed to equip educators with practical tools,
enhance their teaching strategies, and foster a collaborative
learning environment. By the end of the workshop,
participants will possess a robust set of digital tools and
resources to support their teaching of Networks and Decision
Mathematics, as well as new ideas generated through peer
discussions.
Key takeaways:
1. Acquire practical, time-saving digital tools for teaching
Networks and Decision Mathematics.
2. Learn to implement Python and TI-Nspire CAS programs
for key algorithms.
3. Engage in collaborative discussions to discover additional
resources and enhance teaching strategies.
Remember: Mainly TI calculator with Python module
installed or Laptop computer with Visual code or Visual
studio that can execute Python codes.
