Pat Cobb, AC for Bath and North East Somerset, City of Bristol, Gloucestershire, South Gloucestershire, Swindon and Wiltshire (Chippenham area)
How do you introduce trigonometry? Why are logarithms useful when modelling date? These were some of the questions that Natalie Vernon (AMSP Central Team) and Pat Cobb (AMSP Area Coordinator) posted at an A level PD day in early July. With a focus on trigonometry, logarithms, and calculus, as well as linking to the overarching themes and use of technology, teachers discussed ideas for teaching these topics and trialled various activities. They also considered any misconceptions students may have brought from GCSE, and how these topics develop in the second year of the A level.
On the discussion of the unit circle, one teacher exclaimed that “it’s all so obvious now, but why haven’t I been teaching it like this before!”. This was a new course in response to interest from teachers, and we may run a second year of A level version next year. If you’re interested, please contact your Area Coordinator.