Modelling problems in German grammar school leaving examinations (Abitur)-Theory and practice

Abstract : Examples of mathematical problems in German school leaving examinations are examined in detail as to the extent to which they verify the competence of mathematical modelling. For this purpose, the relevance, the authenticity of the context, the openness of the task and the partial competencies as criteria are examined in more detail. It is shown that authentic contexts but no relevant contexts are contained in the problems. As a rule, the use of mathematics is not authentic and problems are not open. The partial competencies in modelling are quite unequally divided and are not covered completely. It is recommended to use all the criteria for the design of future examination questions.