6th Grade  Project 2 weeks

Math Magicians: Numbers Unplugged!

Dee H
CCSS.Math.Practice.MP8
CCSS.Math.Practice.MP7
CCSS.Math.Practice.MP6
CCSS.Math.Practice.MP5
CCSS.Math.Practice.MP4
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Purpose

Students will engage in a hands-on project to analyze and improve their school's recycling program using mathematical tools and strategies. Through this real-world application, they will explore mathematical concepts such as data collection, statistical analysis, and geometric modeling. The project will encourage students to identify patterns, utilize mathematical structures, and apply precision in their calculations. By the end of the two weeks, students will present actionable recommendations to enhance recycling efforts, demonstrating their learning through models, charts, and strategic plans.

Learning goals

Students will investigate mathematical concepts related to data collection, analysis, and interpretation as they assess the school's recycling program. They will learn to use graphs, charts, and statistical measures to model recycling patterns and identify areas for improvement. The project will emphasize precision in measurement and calculation, strategic use of mathematical tools, and recognition of structural patterns in data. Through individual and group reflection, students will articulate their findings and propose actionable improvements, demonstrating their understanding through presentations or reports.
Standards
  • CCSS.Math.Practice.MP8 - Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.
  • CCSS.Math.Practice.MP7 - Look for and make use of structure.
  • CCSS.Math.Practice.MP6 - Attend to precision.
  • CCSS.Math.Practice.MP5 - Use appropriate tools strategically.
  • CCSS.Math.Practice.MP4 - Model with mathematics.

Products

Students will create a comprehensive report analyzing the school's recycling program, incorporating mathematical models and data visualizations. They will design and present a proposal for improving the program, supported by precise calculations and strategic use of mathematical tools. The final product will include both a digital presentation and a physical poster, showcasing their findings and recommendations.

Launch

Begin the project with a school-wide waste audit, where students collect and categorize recyclable materials from designated areas. Use this data to create visual graphs and charts, identifying patterns and areas for improvement. This hands-on activity will set the stage for analyzing the current recycling program and inspire students to think critically about mathematical tools and strategies they can apply to enhance it.

Exhibition

Students will create visual and mathematical models to analyze the current state of the school's recycling program and propose improvements. These models can be displayed in a school-wide exhibition, where students present their findings and suggested changes to peers, teachers, and community members. The exhibition will include interactive stations where attendees can engage with the data, ask questions, and provide feedback. This public presentation allows students to demonstrate their learning and the real-world application of mathematical tools and strategies.