Key Stage 3

In this unit pupils learn how simple models are built by first investigating rules, then by seeing how rules can govern the behaviour of simple models.

The unit concentrates on setting up a model of the operation of a successful tuck shop. Pupils identify the objectives for the retailer, outcomes from a consumer perspective, the constraints under which the tuck shop has to operate and the likely effects on the retailers' objectives.

Pupils discuss the ways in which the model could be presented in a spreadsheet, identifying the inputs, the rules (formulae) and the outputs. Pupils then work in groups to construct this model, revising cells, formulae and cell references. They test the effectiveness of the model by using sample data representing a number of scenarios.

This unit is expected to take approximately 5 hours.