Modelling with Straight Lines (CIE A Level Maths: Pure 1)

What is modelling with straight lines?

• Modelling means applying the mathematics to a real-life situation
• The model is used to find or predict future values
• Models will often need refining to improve their accuracy

  

How do I work with straight line models?

• Turn the words from the question into mathematical equations
• In y = mx + c constants “m” and “c” will have a meaning
  • gradient “m” will be the rate of change
  • eg extension in a spring per 1 kg of mass added
  • y-axis intercept “c” will be the initial value
  • eg resting length of a spring

 

• The skills needed are covered in the other pages of the section Equation of a Straight Line