Modelling with Straight Lines (OCR A Level Maths A): Revision Note

Modelling with Straight Lines

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