Year 13 students recently took part in an interdisciplinary lesson, designed and delivered by their teacher, Aleksandra Strugar, who teaches both Mathematics and Physics. The class focused on the topic of ideal gases, seamlessly combining theoretical knowledge with practical application.
An experiment that fuels knowledge
After an introductory lecture on the laws governing ideal gases, students used an interactive simulation tool to test the equation of state. By varying the temperature of the gas in a closed container at constant volume, they observed and measured the resulting changes in pressure. Each group carried out at least ten measurements before moving on to process the collected data.
Through graphing their results, students were able to demonstrate the linear relationship between pressure and temperature in the system. The exercise went beyond simply plotting data: students accounted for measurement errors, drew a line of best fit, and even compared it with the worst acceptable line to analyze differences in gradients.
This dynamic combination of mathematics and physics not only reinforced key concepts in both subjects but also encouraged students to think critically, interpret results, and develop stronger analytical skills. Such lessons highlight how interconnected scientific disciplines are and how knowledge from one area can enrich understanding in another, preparing students for higher levels of study and future academic success.
