Exam-style question
Try this first
Which answer avoids the common misconception in use and manipulate surds?.
- A.B2: avoid assuming that a rationalised denominator must not change the value of the expression
- B.Use any familiar GCSE calculation even if it ignores Use and manipulate surds
- C.Write only the final answer without showing the mathematical method
- D.Change the notation or restrictions to make the algebra look simpler
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- The correct answer is B2: avoid assuming that a rationalised denominator must not change the value of the expression.
- This option is best because simplify square factors and rationalise denominators only when required, then checks that the notation, restrictions and conclusion match the AQA A-level Mathematics objective.
This answer is tied to the objective: B2 Use and manipulate surds, including rationalising the denominator..
Explanation
Why this works
Use the explanation to connect the worked answer back to B2 Use and manipulate surds, including rationalising the denominator..
B2: avoid assuming that a rationalised denominator must not change the value of the expression is the correct option. It directly supports use and manipulate surds by requiring the student to simplify square factors and rationalise denominators only when required.
The other options are weaker because they hide the reasoning, ignore restrictions, or use a generic calculation that may not fit the objective.
Maths method check
- Topic focus: Pure Mathematics.
- Question style: practice.
- Reasoning demand: recall.
- Check the operation, notation, units, and final answer form against the question before moving on.
Common mistake
No common mistake is linked to this question yet.