"Math Meets Marketplace: Demand Function Fun!" — Inkwire

HTH GSE Kaleidoscope

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High School Grade

Lesson
50 minutes

"Math Meets Marketplace: Demand Function Fun!"

jorge

Week 1	Day 1
Activities	Introduce the lesson by posing the essential questions: How can linear functions model the relationship between price and demand, and why does this relationship matter? Discuss how algebra can predict consumer behavior in market scenarios. Set the context for the lesson by explaining the goal of analyzing real-life data to develop a linear demand function. (5 minutes) Distribute a data table containing sales data of school merchandise. Guide students in analyzing the data to identify trends and variations in demand relative to price changes. Work in pairs to calculate and develop a linear demand function using the data. This activity helps students apply algebraic concepts to model real-life situations and supports collaborative learning. (15 minutes) Students graph their linear demand functions on graph paper or digital tools. Discuss key features of the graph, such as slope and intercept, and how these reflect on price-demand relationships. Collaborate to interpret the graphs, predicting consumer behavior under different pricing scenarios. This reinforces the connection between mathematical theory and practical decision-making. (15 minutes) Introduce a scenario where students apply their models to actual school merchandise sales. Discuss with a community partner (e.g., school store manager or local business) about how demand functions impact pricing strategies. This interaction enhances real-world relevance and understanding of how algebraic models inform business decisions. (10 minutes) Conclude with a class reflection on what students learned about the connection between math and real-life decision-making. Discuss how understanding demand and price can be beneficial in personal and future career contexts. Encourage students to share their insights and consider the broader implications of their work. (5 minutes)
Deliverables
Preparation