Teaching the circle equation using a practical mathematical problem

Abstract

Practical problem solving is not common in many mathematical classes in Malaysian upper secondary schools. Usually, students receive the mathematical concepts through abstract materials (students cannot see some of them in their daily life). Thus some students believe that ‘mathematics is not necessary for human life’. In this article, the researcher discussed the teaching of the circle equation, using a practical problem about the frontage of some convex and concave parts of buildings. In fact, an arc of a circle is given. Engineers should calculate the radius value of this circle to curve the composite sheets precisely the same as a circle using an engineering machine and frontage of the convex or concave parts of buildings. Engineers use a formula to find the radius of the circle in similar cases of frontage of buildings. Discussion about this practical problem in the classes transfers the concepts of the circle equation to students in better pedagogy and helps them to see an application of the circle equation in the real world. Therefore, this method of teaching provides learners an opportunity to find how mathematical concepts can be used in their everyday life and their future careers.

KEYWORDS:

• Mathematics
• practical problem
• circle equation
• problem solving

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.