Home > Subjects > Mathematics > Level 3 - statistics and modelling > 3.4 Solve equations (AS90644) > Key tips
- Subject: Mathematics
- AS: 90644
- Level: 3
- Credits: 4
- External
Statistics and modelling 3.4 Solve equations
Key tips
- Revise level 2 algebra skills
- Be methodical when solving equations with three linear equations. These take a while to solve and it can be easy to lose your way in a jumble of equations.
- Know the difference between ‘shading in’ and ‘shading out’. Always state clearly which option you have chosen.
- Merit and Excellence questions may be set in real-life or mathematical contexts.
- Where a non-linear equation to be solved involves differentiation of a function that is not a polynomial, the derivative will be given.
- The use of appropriate technology is expected.See the Graphics calculator resources on NZQA.
- Learn both the Newton-Raphson method and the bisection method, as a question may specify which method is to be used when solving non-linear equations.
- For problems relating to solving a non-linear equation using the Newton-Raphson method or the bisection method, you are expected to show evidence of each iteration (which may be in the form of a table showing each iteration or by showing each value of xn – f(xn)/f”(xn) ) as well as providing a final decision/comment.
- Rounding correctly to a specified accuracy is required for problems relating to solving a non-linear equation using the Newton-Raphson method or the bisection method at the achievement with merit level.
- Check out the I Can Do Sheet Level 3 Statistics from www.nzamt.org.nz for a list of essential skills for each achievement standard.
