THE PROCESS OF DESIGNING AND USING REAL-LIFE EXERCISES TO DEVELOP STUDENTS’ PROBLEM-SOLVING COMPETENCE IN TEACHING THE “MECHANICS” SECTION OF GRADE 10 PHYSICS

The 2018 General education curriculum of Vietnam emphasizes the development of students’ competencies, with problem solving competence as a core focus to be fostered through teaching and learning activities. Physics, closely tied to real-world phenomena, offers significant potential for cultivating problem-solving skills through practical, context-based exercises. The “Mechanics” section in grade 10 Physics, with its relevance to daily life and production, provides an ideal context for designing such exercises. However, many teachers face challenges in systematically creating and integrating these exercises into lessons. This study addresses these challenges by proposing two interconnected processes: 1) Designing real-life Physics problems to develop problem-solving competence, 2) Implementing these problems within the instructional flow of grade 10 Mechanics. Grounded in robust theoretical frameworks (OECD, 2014; Pham Huu Tong, 2004), these processes are highly feasible and practical. Compared to prior studies, this research addresses the gap in systematic processes tailored specifically for Mechanics, offering detailed steps for both design and application. This study clarifies the competence-based teaching approach and provides practical tools for innovating Physics education in line with the 2018 Curriculum.