Being taught formulae

[mollykins]

If we're not going to be given some of formulae in exams (for maths and chemistry) that we'll need, in the majority of cases (excluding the quadratic formula and probably some others) is it best not to be taught them, but to be taught how to think about it logically?

With the quadratic formula and probably others, we'll have to remember it and you can logically think yourself through it if you don't know it.

But say with something such as working out grams of 0.5m an element in a certain amount of water, you could use a formula to work it out in one go, or say to yourself how many grams are there in 1 lite of water, then divide or mulitply it to whatever volume you have, then thinking whether you need to half or double it for the 0.5m bit of the question, which would be a logical way of thinking it through, rather than using a formula.

[bednobs]

i think its best to use whatever method suits you best

[mike11111]

Molly, I am a retired teacher, but find myself a bit short of cash at the moment. Could you ask your Head if he has any jobs going? I feel in need of a new challenge.

[terambulan]

best to spread it out on a glass top table, borrow dad's razor and divide it that way. Wrap the divisions in foil so you dont forget the formula.

Only 2 out of masses Molly - see me !

[mollykins]

I supose so bednobs, some people can remember formulae really easily.

mike, what did you teach? Or you could be my tutor . . .

tera, i'm trying to get my head around your post, it's not making sense.

[mike11111]

I taught Latin and French, so probably wouldn't be much use to a budding marine biologist. I don't think I could be your tutor, Molly ; I know I said I was looking for a challenge, but not one that big.

[paddy_s]

Well the answer is here molly.


http://www.physicscla...class/1dkin/u1l6a.cfm

[mollykins]

Oi mike!

I'm glad I don't do physics.