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Mathematical Inquiry into Authentic Problems
This special topic presents ten inquiry units for Years F to 6. based in authentic real world situations with an accompanying teacher’s guide. The major aim is for students to learn to use mathematics to help make sensible decisions in response to the ill-structured and open-ended questions that are often encountered in life.
The emphasis is on extended mathematical inquiry problems that: (1) are driven by an inquiry question; (2) contain ambiguities that require negotiation; and (3) require mathematical evidence to address the problem and justify a proposed solution.
Each unit is presented using the ‘4D Guided Inquiry model’ with four phases—Discover, Devise, Develop and Defend. Each unit aims to develop content knowledge as well as assisting students to understand the process of inquiry and the importance of providing mathematical evidence.