What to understand in Heights and Distances
Elevation/depression applications. The goal is to understand the underlying relationship, recognise the type of problem or concept, and explain each step rather than memorising an isolated answer.
PCDS study method
- Recall prerequisite ideas and definitions.
- Study one visual or real-life representation of the concept.
- Work through a model example with reasoning shown.
- Solve a similar problem independently.
- Review the exact error and retry without looking at the solution.
Original worked example
At 45° elevation, distance from pole equals 20 m. Find height (level ground).
Step 1: tan45°=h/20
Step 2: 1=h/20
Answer: 20 m
What an expert tutor should check
A good tutor should verify whether the student can explain the method in their own words, apply it to a changed question, and identify common traps—not merely copy the worked steps.