GS Mhlongo -2025753902
GPEV1623 2024-Jul Assignment
General Pedagogics 1: Managing the Curriculum
Grade: 12th Grade Subject: Mathematics
Topic: Calculus - Differential Equations
Content requires the following background knowledge:
1. Differential Equations Basics: Understand what is a differential equation (equation of
unknown function y=f(x) and its derivatives) and different types of equations that can
be differentiated and those in which they cannot.
2. Solution Techniques: Skills of solving many types of equations, such as skills for
rearranging like terms on same side of equation, eliminating same component on
both side of the equation and substituting one variable in terms of the other.
dy
3. Notations for differentiation that can be used: f (x), Dx, or y .
dx
4. In respect of cubic functions: Must have a solid understanding to find the equation of
given function, stationary points including local maximum, local minimum and point
of inflection. Also, able to draw and interpret the function of its derivative.
5. Applications: understanding of the applications of differential equations in physics,
engineering, biology, economics, and chemistry, among other subjects.
Pedagogical Knowledge:
1. Visualizations and Graphical Representations: When demonstrating differential equation
behaviours and solutions, make use of interactive visualizations and graphs.
2. Real-world Examples: To illustrate the importance of differential equations, relate them
to actual situations such the relationship between the quantity (distance) and rate of
change (speed in respect of time).
3. Problem-solving Approaches: Instruct learners with approaches allowed by the
curriculum to solve differential equations, including step-by-step methods and strategies
for identifying the type of equation.
4. Technology Integration: Display videos with related scenarios based on “Rate of change”
to leaners to further explain the concept of differentiation and why derivate.
5. Formative Assessment: Assess learners understanding through class discussion, provide
class activities (some with group discussion) and homework(s) to improve individual
assessment and lastly class tests after leaning the concept of “Calculus - Differential
Equations”.
Assessment Technique: Differential Equations Portfolio
1. Problem-solving Assignments: Assign learners to show their step-by-step solutions,
including the identification of the type of equation (separable equation, linear equation,
quadratic or cubic equation).
2. Modelling Scenarios: Give students case studies or real-world settings where they must
create differential equations using word information or data that is provided and they
should interpret their results in terms of the original equation or statement.
3. Peer Review and Presentation: Have learners present their solutions to complex
problems and encourage constructive feedback and discussion among other learners.
4. Formative Assessment Checks: Give pupils feedback right away to clear up any
misunderstandings and direct their learning.
5. Reflection: Encourage students to reflect on their problem-solving strategies, areas of
difficulty, and insights gained through the assessment tasks. This enhances understanding
and encourages metacognitive awareness.
