Drink swim deaths rise



Looking at the article and the questions I have formulated, students are required to think critically about the most effective way to represent these data. This will require students to consider different graph formats, in the process of deciding which will best suit their purpose.

In addition the questions challenge students to think beyond the data itself, to the reasons behind them; consequently they are making links between mathematics and SOSE. In particular I want students to think about the comparative dangers associated with private and public swimming pools, and further between swimming between the flags at beaches or outside them.

There are also social issues to consider, in relation to why it is dangerous to swim after consuming alcohol.

A follow up to this activity would be to have a member of the surf lifesaving association come and be a guest speaker in the classroom.

 

(Written by Susie Best, BTeach student, University of Tasmania, 2001)


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