What is the modelling curriculum?

This paper describes the benefits which might accrue from modelling as an activity for learners. Some approaches taken to teach modelling are discussed and criticised. The learner's purpose for modelling is suggested to be critical in engaging them in this formal and theoretic field and it is suggested that presentation and communication of ideas in the context of project work may be appropriate. An analysis of parts of the modelling process is presented to highlight some of the 'hidden steps' which learners may usefully have disentangled by modelling software. Finally some prototype software developed by the Integrated Modelling Project to explore these problems is described.