The FIFA method
The FIFA method
The FIFA method is a simplified protocol for managing mathematical work at GCSE level examinations.
There are two key parts to training pupils to use the FIFA method and it should be started at the earliest opportunity in y7.
1) Two mathematical skills used to 'fine tune' a mathematical equation
2) The FIFA mnemonic method
Two mathematical skills
There are two rules to rearranging equations.
RULE 1: You can do anything to one side of an equation AS LONG as you do it to the other side.
RULE 2: Anything divided by itself is 1
For example, solving 5a+2=17.
The problem can be solved if you think about the problem in terms of a balance.
The goal is to get a on its own so it equals a number. to do so we need to fine tune the numbers away.
It is best to first remove the +2, this is done by subtracting 2. This means however we must do this to the other side or the balance is lost.
This leaves us with 5a = 15. Now we must remove the 5. As is is multiplied by a we must divide it by 5, 5 divided by 5 is 1 so it cancels.
Again, if we divide the left by 5 we must divide the right by 5 also.
Therefore a = 5
The FIFA method
The FIFA acronym stands for:
| FORMULA | Lookup/recall/infer |
| INSERT VALUES | Decode from the question |
| FINE TUNE | Simplify maths |
| ANSWER | Calculate and answer |
Formula
Pupils first obtain the equation.
a) They lookup the equation on the equation sheet. these were reintroduced in 2022 after Covid (and should remain as no physicist commits all relationships to memory, why should pupils).
b) They recall the equation from memory. Many superb revision and homework packages such as Seneca exist that support pupils building their recall of the subject.
c) They infer from provided information or understanding of the subject matter. If teaching is strong physics can often be inferred from pupils understanding.
Insert values
Pupils will need to identify the values presented in the questions and insert them in the correct positions.
Fine tune
Use the two mathematical skills to fine tune to a simple calculation.
Answer
Finalise and answer. There may be some additional requirements of units requiring management of standard form.
Pedagogy
The FIFA method is intended to replace any need for the historically ineffective use of equation triangles in GCSE science.
Equations triangles are simply a terrible coping mechanism that hide from pupils the maths required for successfully performance in GCSE level examinations. They also stifle further development of critical mathematical skills required for managing harder equations at GCSE and science study beyond.
Equation triangles also demand a significant higher cognitive load than performing the basic maths skills required to simply manage the maths in the first place.
Credit
Gethyn Jones @emc2andallthat physicsteacher.blog links are found below.