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6th Grade  Lesson 45 minutes

"Shape Up: Area Adventure Quest!"

Ashley Z
CCSS.Math.Content.6.G.A.1
CCSS.Math.Content.6.G.A.4
CCSS.Math.Content.6.G.A.2
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

This learning experience aims to deepen students' understanding of geometric concepts by applying them to real-world scenarios, specifically designing garden plots. Through hands-on projects, students will calculate areas and volumes, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Collaborating with a community garden, they will connect mathematical learning to tangible outcomes, enhancing their sense of belonging and identity within their community. The project encourages self-directed learning and academic reflection, allowing students to monitor their progress and develop socio-emotional skills through teamwork and communication.

Learning goals

Students will learn to calculate the area of rectangles and triangles to design effective garden plots, applying mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios. They will develop self-directed learning skills by using feedback and reflection to refine their designs. Through collaboration with a community garden, students will enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, creating innovative solutions that meet community needs. They will also cultivate an academic mindset by establishing a sense of belonging and identity within their community project.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.6.G.A.1 - Find the area of right triangles, other triangles, special quadrilaterals, and polygons by composing into rectangles or decomposing into triangles and other shapes; apply these techniques in the context of solving real-world and mathematical problems.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.6.G.A.4 - Represent three-dimensional figures using nets made up of rectangles and triangles, and use the nets to find the surface area of these figures. Apply these techniques in the context of solving real-world and mathematical problems.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.6.G.A.2 - Find the volume of a right rectangular prism with fractional edge lengths by packing it with unit cubes of the appropriate unit fraction edge lengths, and show that the volume is the same as would be found by multiplying the edge lengths of the prism. Apply the formulas V = l w h and V = b h to find volumes of right rectangular prisms with fractional edge lengths in the context of solving real-world and mathematical problems.
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 detailed garden plot designs, calculating the area required for various plants, and present these designs in a digital format using online design tools. They will compile a digital portfolio showcasing their designs, reflections, and photographs of the actual garden plots they plant, demonstrating the application of mathematical concepts. Additionally, students will participate in a gallery walk, presenting their designs and reflecting on the teamwork and communication skills developed during the project.

Launch

Begin the lesson with a hands-on activity where students measure and calculate the area of various objects in the classroom, such as desks, books, or floor tiles. Encourage them to use rulers and calculators to find the dimensions and area of each item. This exercise will introduce the concept of area in a tangible way and set the stage for designing garden plots. Afterward, discuss how these skills can be applied to real-world scenarios, like planning a community garden.

Exhibition

Students will host a community event at the local garden where they present their garden plot designs to family members, community partners, and local gardeners. Each student will explain their design process, area calculations, and the choice of plants, highlighting how mathematical concepts were applied. Attendees can walk through the garden to see the plots in action, engage in discussions with the students, and provide feedback on their designs and presentations. This exhibition allows students to showcase their learning and contributions to the community, fostering a sense of accomplishment and connection.