Math and science collaboration strengthens student learning at Vilseck High School
VILSECK, Germany — Students at Vilseck High School recently experienced a unique interdisciplinary lesson as chemistry and mathematics teachers joined forces to help students better understand complex concepts shared between both subjects.
On Feb. 19, chemistry teacher Ms. Dare partnered with Mr. Eggl’s Algebra II class to guide students through the process of simplifying rational expressions — a concept that appears in both chemistry and mathematics. The collaborative lesson allowed students to explore how algebraic reasoning directly supports scientific problem-solving.
Students quickly recognized the connection between the two subjects. “It’s the same type of math in both classes,” said sophomore Emerencia, noting the overlap between the skills used in chemistry and algebra.
Mr. Eggl began the lesson by asking students, “Why do these cancel out?” prompting immediate discussion among students as they worked to explain their reasoning. He then challenged the class to consider whether there are situations where the same value over the same value does not equal one.
Working in groups, students determined that zero divided by zero does not equal one. Mr. Eggl clarified that the result is undefined, prompting Ms. Dare to add, “Even math has exceptions—maybe not as many as chemistry—but this is an excellent example of one.”
To deepen student understanding, Mr. Eggl encouraged students to apply Claim, Evidence, Reasoning, an instructional strategy used across subjects at Vilseck High School. He also introduced a real-world example to illustrate the concept, explaining that one foot divided by twelve inches equals one. From that point forward, he referred to these ratios as “fancy ones,” helping students connect abstract mathematics to practical applications.
With this foundation in place, students transitioned to solving chemistry problems, using algebraic reasoning to support dimensional analysis and unit conversions.
Students said the joint lesson helped reinforce their understanding of the concepts.
“It’s helpful when our teachers get together for these hard concepts,” said sophomore Audrey.
Sophomore Hannah added that the collaboration helped students connect learning across subjects. “It helps us remember what we learned in Algebra II. Plus, we see how we can use it outside math class.”
While Dare and Eggl spent hours planning the lesson together, both agreed the effort was worthwhile. The collaborative approach not only strengthened students’ understanding of math and science but also demonstrated a core value at Vilseck High School — teamwork among educators to support student success.
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The Department of War Education Activity advances student achievement through the Blueprint for Continuous Improvement, supporting Strategic Goal 1: Student Excellence by strengthening rigorous instruction and interdisciplinary learning opportunities for students.
