Exam-style question
Try this first
Which response best matches the A-level Maths objective on sequences including those given by a formula for the nth term…?.
- A.D2: choose the method that matches sequences including those given by a formula for the nth term…
- B.Use any familiar GCSE calculation even if it ignores sequences including those given by a formula for the nth term…
- 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 D2: choose the method that matches sequences including those given by a formula for the nth term….
- This option is best because identify the term rule, common difference or common ratio before summing, then checks that the notation, restrictions and conclusion match the AQA A-level Mathematics objective.
This answer is tied to the objective: D2 Work with sequences including those given by a formula for the nth term and those generated by a simple relation of the form x_(n+1) = f(x_n); work with increasing, decreasing and periodic sequences..
Explanation
Why this works
Use the explanation to connect the worked answer back to D2 Work with sequences including those given by a formula for the nth term and those generated by a simple relation of the form x_(n+1) = f(x_n); work with increasing, decreasing and periodic sequences..
D2: choose the method that matches sequences including those given by a formula for the nth term… is the correct option. It directly supports sequences including those given by a formula for the nth term… by requiring the student to identify the term rule, common difference or common ratio before summing.
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.