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9th Grade  Project 1 week

Quad Quest: Solve the Equation Adventure!

Hannah S
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RST.9-10.1
HS-PS3-3
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.9-10.10
HS-ESS2-5
MA:Cn10.1.i.a
+ 5 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage 9th-grade students in applying quadratic equations to solve authentic, real-world challenges, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through hands-on projects like creating stop-motion animations and participating in a mock engineering fair, students will deepen their understanding of mathematical concepts while enhancing their communication and self-directed learning abilities. This project aims to build content expertise and an academic mindset by connecting math to students' lives and communities, encouraging them to explore and present innovative solutions to complex questions.

Learning goals

Students will apply quadratic equations to solve real-world problems, enhancing their understanding of mathematical concepts and their practical applications. They will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by exploring innovative approaches to authentic challenges. Through self-directed learning, students will monitor their progress and reflect on their evolving understanding, while effectively communicating their findings through presentations and peer discussions.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RST.9-10.1 - Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts, attending to the precise details of explanations or descriptions.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-PS3-3 - Design, build, and refine a device that works within given constraints to convert one form of energy into another form of energy.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.9-10.10 - By the end of grade 9, read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poems, in the grades 9—10 text complexity band proficiently, with scaffolding as needed at the high end of the range.<br />By the end of grade 10, read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poems, at the high end of the grades 9—10 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-ESS2-5 - Plan and conduct an investigation of the properties of water and its effects on Earth materials and surface processes.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] MA:Cn10.1.i.a - HS Proficient: Access, evaluate, and integrate personal and external resources to inform the creation of original media artworks, such as experiences, interests, and cultural experiences.
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.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.

Products

Students will create a stop-motion animation that visually demonstrates the trajectory of a projectile, calculated using quadratic equations. They will also develop a presentation to accompany their animation, explaining the application of quadratic equations in their project. Additionally, students will participate in a 'Math in Motion' event, where they will perform short skits or videos dramatizing real-life scenarios involving quadratic equations, showcasing their understanding and creativity.

Launch

Begin the project with an interactive 'Quadratic Quest' scavenger hunt, where students explore the school or local community to identify and document real-world examples of quadratic equations. Encourage students to capture their findings through photos and written explanations, highlighting how these examples relate to the essential question. This engaging activity sets the stage for deeper exploration and application of quadratic equations in solving practical problems.

Exhibition

Host a 'Math in Motion' event where students showcase their stop-motion animations illustrating projectile trajectories calculated using quadratic equations. Students will present their animations alongside short skits or videos dramatizing real-life scenarios, such as solving mysteries or designing roller coasters with math. This exhibition will provide a platform for students to communicate their learning, engage with peers and visitors, and reflect on the practical applications of quadratic equations in an interactive and creative format.