![]() Conceptual changes can be reflected in the models developed. Also, conceptual changes can be promoted by creating models. What is a model? Look at the following model about solar eclipse and lunar eclipse, and try to understand how solar/lunar eclipse occurs. You may go to the following web site to see an interactive model: http://highered.mheducation.com/olcweb/cgi/pluginpop.cgi?it=swf::640::480::/sites/dl/free/007299181x/220730/eclipse_interactive.swf::Eclipse%20Interactive Look at another Maths problem in the Primary school curriculum: Chu Beng and Andy had $110 altogether. Chu Beng had $1.80 more than Andy. How much did each child have? How to solve this problem? Students are often taught to solve such problems by drawing models: Model is a graphical, mathematical (symbolic), physical, or verbal representation or simplified version of a concept, phenomenon, relationship, structure, system, or an aspect of the real world. It can come in many shapes, sizes, and styles. But it is important to emphasize that a model is not the real world but merely a human construct to help better understand the real world system (http://serc.carleton.edu/introgeo/models/WhatIsAModel.html) Types of model Students can learn from existing (or finished) models created by others (e.g., by a subject expert) or from the process of creating a new model. Some types of models are (http://serc.carleton.edu/introgeo/models/WhatIsAModel.html) :
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