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Students' ability to apply mathematical skills in solving chemical taska

Publication

Abstract

A complex and interdisciplinary approach to solving not only natural science problems is a prerequisite for the development of society. In order to achieve this, it is necessary to develop the generally applicable knowledge and skills of pupils since basic education.

Science education and mathematics provide possibilities for development of these competences. In chemistry, many phenomena and processes cannot simply be explained to the pupils without the involvement of mathematical apparatus.

Similarly in mathematics, it is difficult to explain the importance of theoretical approaches without applying experience from common practice Inquiry based science education seems to be the suitable teaching method for solving the problems mentioned above. Over the last 5 years, we have researched the thought processes and practices of grammar school students in dealing with chemical tasks that require the use of various mathematical operations.

The results of the research led to the creation of a series of educational tasks developed for use in the exposure phase of teaching. Described tasks should contribute to the creation of the necessary skills and to their effective application by students.

During project-based education focused on interdisciplinarity of chemistry and mathematics, students encounter many tasks of a similar type. Then they can creatively use the skills they have acquired in an independent inquiry-based education.