MEM12024A Perform computations

Release: 1

MEM12024A Perform computations

Modification History

Not Applicable

Unit Descriptor

Unit descriptor	This unit covers estimating approximate answers to arithmetical problems, carrying out basic calculations involving percentages and proportions, and determining simple ratios and averages. The unit includes producing and interpreting simple charts and graphs.

Application of the Unit

Application of the unit	This unit applies in manufacturing, engineering or related environments. It includes the application of the four rules of algebraic expressions, extracting information from drawings, diagrams, graphs and charts and producing simple charts and graphs. Data may be derived from readings taken or may be computer generated. Applications can include computations associated with pressure, volume, temperature, heat, speed, power, elasticity, density, mass, force etc. Calculations may be performed using pen and paper or on a calculator. Band: A Unit Weight: 3

Licensing/Regulatory Information

Not Applicable

Pre-Requisites

Prerequisite units

Employability Skills Information

Employability skills	This unit contains employability skills.

Elements and Performance Criteria Pre-Content

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency.	Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.

Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT	PERFORMANCE CRITERIA
1. Determine work requirement	1.1. Required outcomes are established from job instructions. 1.2. Data is obtained from relevant sources and interpreted correctly. 1.3. Required calculation method is determined to suit the application, including selection of relevant arithmetic operations and/or formulae. 1.4. Expected results are estimated, including rounding off, as appropriate.
2. Perform calculations	2.1. Calculation method is applied correctly. 2.2. Correct answer is obtained. 2.3. Answer is checked against estimation.
3. Produce charts and graphs from given information	3.1. Data is transposed accurately to produce charts or graphs. 3.2. Charts or graphs accurately reflect data on which they are based.

Required Skills and Knowledge

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit.
Required skills
Look for evidence that confirms skills in: performing calculations involving whole numbers using all four basic rules performing calculations involving length, perimeter, area and volume checking calculated answers for accuracy rounding off estimated answers expressing information presented in fractional or decimal format as a percentage selecting appropriate formulae for the given application substituting the correct values for each term in the relevant formulae using appropriate mathematical operations performing calculations involving ratios or proportions determining required information from appropriate charts or graphs producing simple charts or graphs from given information or observations made selecting appropriate scales and using them in the production of charts and graphs marking appropriate limits clearly on the graph or chart reading, interpreting and following information on written job instructions, specifications, standard operating procedures, charts, lists, drawings and other applicable reference documents planning and sequencing operations checking and clarifying task related information checking for conformance to specifications undertaking numerical operations, geometry and calculations/formulae within the scope of this unit
Required knowledge
Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of: formula applicable to the determination of perimeter, area and volume of simple geometric shapes techniques for estimating approximate answers reasons for using dimensions with the same units when calculating length, perimeter, area and volume concepts of perimeter, area and volume procedures for rounding off figures when estimating approximate answers mixed numbers, decimals, fractions and whole numbers concept of percentage procedures to be followed in converting a decimal to a percentage procedures for carrying out calculations involving fractions and using each of the four basic rules procedures to be followed on converting a fraction to a percentage sources of appropriate formulae reasons for ensuring that the units of each term are consistent with the formulae selected procedures for converting given units to those required for use in formulae concepts of ratio and proportion given ratios and proportions can be expressed in terms of whole numbers, fractions and decimal fractions scales applicable to the axes of the graphs or charts three types of charts and/or graphs used in the individual's field of work where appropriate, upper and lower limits of acceptability applicable to data entered on a graph or chart where appropriate, the trends indicated by the slope or gradient of a graph where appropriate, the action to be taken when given trends occur or set limits are approached on graphs or charts procedures for drawing 'lines of best fit' the trends indicated by the graphs or charts drawn hazards and control measures associated with performing computations, including housekeeping safe work practices and procedures

Evidence Guide

EVIDENCE GUIDE
The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment	A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to perform computations.
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit	Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently perform all elements of the unit as specified by the criteria, including required knowledge, and be capable of applying the competency in new and different situations and contexts.
Context of and specific resources for assessment	This unit may be assessed on the job, off the job or a combination of both on and off the job. Where assessment occurs off the job, that is the candidate is not in productive work, then an appropriate simulation must be used where the range of conditions reflects realistic workplace situations. The competencies covered by this unit would be demonstrated by an individual working alone or as part of a team. The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate. This unit could be assessed in conjunction with any other units addressing the safety, quality, communication, materials handling, recording and reporting associated with performing computations or other units requiring the exercise of the skills and knowledge covered by this unit.
Method of assessment	Assessors should gather a range of evidence that is valid, sufficient, current and authentic. Evidence can be gathered through a variety of ways including direct observation, supervisor's reports, project work, samples and questioning. Questioning techniques should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit of competency. The candidate must have access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required. The candidate must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications, codes, standards, manuals and reference materials.
Guidance information for assessment

Range Statement

RANGE STATEMENT
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.
Relevant sources	Charts, graphs, diagrams, measurement data, reference manuals and specifications
Application	Applications can include computations associated with pressure, volume, temperature, heat, speed, power, elasticity, density, mass, force etc.
Arithmetic operations	Application of subtraction, addition, multiplication and division Manipulation of decimals, fractions and mixed numbers and whole numbers Determining of percentages Performing of algebraic expressions Calculation of proportions and ratios
Charts and graphs	Simple histograms, control charts, pie charts etc.

Unit Sector(s)

Unit sector

Co-requisite units

Co-requisite units

Competency field

Competency field	Measurement