Honors Algebra
Making Math Visible and Meaningful #seeingmath
#making connections
#seeingalgebraproject
During phase two of the project the kids build off of the first project. However, the students are now working on their own. In the second phase of the project students get to pick a piece of architecture as their inspiration and then they have to write systems of equations to recreate that artwork. They work with the three forms of linear functions and must decide which form is the most beneficial for what their task is. It is a great way for the kids to apply their knowledge of point - slope form, standard form, and slope intercept form. Kids by now have a full grasp of domain and range restrictions and when and where they are needed.
The final phase of the project comes during the second semester. By now kids have studied not only linear functions but also non-linear functions, including exponential, radical, and quadratic functions. In this final phase they get to design a level of angry birds using their knowledge of all of the various function types. Some kids will extend this and utilize their understanding of vertex form of a quadratic function and then create circles. I have even had kids figure out ways to incorporate sliders to make their birds fly. Each year I feel like the kids can't do anything else to amaze me and then my jaw hits the ground again.
The best part is when I conference with the kids and explain that I feel like their design might be a bit more challenging than they realize. However, they get so into it and say how much they love it that some kids will literally write over 100 functions to create their project.
Phase One
Phase Two
Phase Three
#makingmathrelevant
#makingmathvisible
Receiving Parameters
Applying for a Permit
Testing their Course
#mathmadevisible
#makingmathapplicable
Analyzing Electoral Map
Interpreting Exit Poll Results
War Room
#speakinglikemathematicians
#engagement=amazement
Alison Strole
Fishers Junior High Honors Algebra Teacher
Email: astrole@hse.k12.in.us
Twitter: @MrsStrole