There are a number of myths about tutoring: • It’s only for wealthy people • It’s only for high or low achievers • The subject is the problem • Tutoring is a “last resort” to cram before a test Fortunately none of the above is true. Education has changed... although there continues to be an emphasis on the three R’s, at least at primary school. However children are … [Read more...]
Why and how to calculate percentages of whole numbers
There are a few ways of learning how to calculate percentages of whole numbers .. .. although this video shows how to calculate percentages by converting to fractions and then cross division. 'Percentage' means 'out of 100.' Therefore we can use the idea of 'equivalent fractions' to make the numbers smaller and easier to deal with. So 12% is exactly the same as … [Read more...]
Real maths – How many cars do I need to wash to buy a Nintendo DS?
Real maths ... because everything costs something! When you want a Nintendo DS, how long will it take if you earn £5 per hour? Although the video is a quite straightforward, and contains a Lol cameo, there is a serious side to the question. It was founded on the thought that most of the word questions in maths books are a little 'abstract.' My children are far more … [Read more...]
How to change repeating decimals to fractions proof
Repeating decimals to fractions.. .. is a favourite GCSE question, usually grade 7+ and worth around 2/4 marks. A repeating decimals to fractions question is a little more 'abstract' but, once you understand the principles, it should be relatively straightforward. The answer is to use algebra to show a formal proof. As with most mathematics aim for a logical progression … [Read more...]
How to use the Rules of Indices
How to use the rules of indices is very useful in maths .. ..as it is a convenient way of writing down large numbers that have many repeating terms. It's quicker to write 10^6 than 1,000,000 each time. The index (sometimes called the exponent) simply says how many times the number is used in the calculation. So 10³ is the same as 10 x 10 x 10 which equals 1000. This is … [Read more...]