Mathematical Modelling (Coding)
Mathematical modelling through coding transforms abstract formulas into executable logic that students can test and verify. When a grade 9 student writes `total = 50 + 8 * weeks` to model savings growth, they bridge mathematical concepts with computational thinking skills required by LK20.
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Why it matters
Coding-based mathematical models prepare students for data science, engineering, and financial careers where algorithmic thinking drives decision-making. A logistics company uses `distance = speed × time` models to optimize delivery routes, potentially saving 15-20% in fuel costs annually. Banking systems rely on percentage decay models to calculate loan depreciation, processing millions of transactions daily. When students model budget allocation problems through greedy algorithms, they develop skills used in resource management across industries from manufacturing to healthcare. The LK20 curriculum emphasizes computational thinking precisely because these mathematical modelling skills have become essential workplace competencies, with coding bootcamps reporting 73% higher job placement rates for graduates who combine mathematical reasoning with programming logic.
How to solve mathematical modelling (coding)
Modelling with Code
- Identify the real-world relationship to model.
- Write a formula or rule as code (e.g. y = 2*x + 3).
- Use loops or iteration to test multiple inputs.
- Compare the model's output to real data to check accuracy.
Example: Model: cost = 5 * items + 10. For 3 items: cost = 25.
Worked examples
You earn $6.00 in pocket money each week for 2 weeks. You already had $32.00. Total?
Answer: 44
- Set up the model → total = 32 + 6 x 2 — Start + earnings.
- Calculate → total = 32 + 12 = 44 — After 2 iterations.
An airplane flies at 634 km/h. How far does it travel in 2 hours?
Answer: d = 634 x 2 = 1268 km
- Write formula → d = 634 x t — distance = speed x time.
- Substitute → d = 634 x 2 = 1268 — The airplane travels 1268 km.
A car is worth $200.00. It depreciates 2% per year. Value after 4 years?
Answer: 187
- Set up loop → p = 200; repeat 4: p = p - p x 2/100 — Subtract the depreciation each year.
- Trace values → 200 -> 196 -> 193 -> 190 -> 187 — After 4 iterations: 187.
Common mistakes
- ✗Students write accumulation loops incorrectly, calculating 50 + 8 + 8 + 8 = 74 instead of properly iterating: start=50, then 58, then 66, then 74 for 3 weeks.
- ✗Mixing up variable assignments in decay models, writing `value = value * 0.95` instead of `value = value - value * 0.05`, leading to 950 instead of 95 after one 5% decay step.
- ✗Confusing formula order in distance calculations, computing time × distance ÷ speed = 3 × 240 ÷ 60 = 12 instead of distance = speed × time = 60 × 3 = 180.
- ✗Forgetting to update loop counters, creating infinite loops instead of stopping after the specified 4 iterations in depreciation problems.
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