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11th Grade  Project 15 weeks

Investing in Our Future

Rodrigo M
HSA-CED.A.1
HSF-LE.A.4
HSF-LE.B.5
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of "Grow It or Blow It - A Semester-Long Investment Challenge" is to engage 11th-grade students in a real-world financial exploration that integrates mathematical modeling with critical thinking about economic inequality and personal finance. Through hands-on, project-based learning, students will develop essential skills in data analysis, financial literacy, and ethical reasoning, while creating personalized investment portfolios. This experience aims to prepare students for informed financial decision-making and to inspire them to consider the broader socio-economic impacts of their strategies, fostering both academic growth and a deeper understanding of their role in the economic landscape.

Learning goals

Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of exponential growth and decay, linear models, and data visualization, applying these mathematical concepts to create and analyze investment strategies. They will enhance their financial literacy by exploring real-world economic issues, such as wealth disparity and systemic access, while building skills in critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and decision-making. Through collaboration and self-directed learning, students will refine their ability to communicate complex financial concepts effectively and engage in reflective practices to connect their academic learning to personal financial management.
Standards
  • [] HSA-CED.A.1 - Create equations and inequalities in one variable including ones with absolute value and use them to solve problems. Include equations arising from linear and quadratic functions, and simple rational and exponential functions.
  • [] HSF-LE.A.4 - For exponential models, express as a logarithm the solution to abct = d where a, c, and d are numbers and the base b is 2, 10, or e; evaluate the logarithm using technology.
  • [] HSF-LE.B.5 - Interpret the parameters in a linear or exponential function in terms of a context.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will create a comprehensive digital financial portfolio that tracks their investment strategies and growth over time, incorporating reflections on decision-making processes and math model justifications. They will design an infographic highlighting disparities in access to wealth and propose solutions to reduce economic inequality. Additionally, students will build interactive booths to engage visitors with their investment models and produce a video documentary or written essay capturing their experiences and insights throughout the project, including interviews with community partners.

Launch

Kick off the learning experience with a 'Market Madness Challenge,' where students are divided into teams and given hypothetical funds to create and manage investment strategies. This interactive simulation will introduce students to market dynamics and investment concepts, fostering collaboration and strategic thinking. The challenge will conclude with a presentation of their strategies and outcomes, setting the stage for deeper exploration throughout the semester.

Exhibition

The classroom transforms into an interactive investment showcase, simulating a real-world financial expo or innovation fair. Students act as financial analysts, investors, and equity advocates presenting their findings to an authentic audience. They will present their investment strategies, math models, and portfolio results, displaying graphs, tables, and written reflections. The exhibition will also include an equity-focused analysis, such as infographics on access to wealth, and engage visitors through interactive visuals, simulations, or Q&A booths.