In this project, students will harness algebraic concepts to create a budget-friendly travel itinerary for a week in their city. By engaging with real-world applications, they explore their community, apply mathematical modeling, and enhance problem-solving skills relevant to their daily lives. This project encourages students to think critically and creatively as they design meaningful travel experiences, blending academic growth with personal connection to Philadelphia's dynamic landscape.
Learning goals
Students will develop skills in solving and representing linear equations and inequalities, using algebraic and graphical methods to interpret real-world scenarios. They will create and analyze mathematical models to facilitate decision-making and justify their reasoning during problem-solving activities. Through reflective practices and collaborative projects, students will enhance competencies in adaptive thinking, creative solution creation, and utilize algorithms effectively. Engaging with the socio-economic context of travel planning in Philadelphia, students will deepen their understanding of mathematical models and their applications.
Standards
[Pennsylvania] CC.2.2.HS.D.10 - Represent, solve, and interpret equations/inequalities and systems of equations/inequalities algebraically and graphically.
[Pennsylvania] CC.2.2.HS.D.9 - Use reasoning to solve equations and justify the solution method.
[Pennsylvania] CC.2.2.HS.D.7 - Create and graph equations or inequalities to describe numbers or relationships.
[Pennsylvania] CC.2.2.HS.C.5 - Construct and compare linear, quadratic, and exponential models to solve problems.
[Pennsylvania] CC.2.2.HS.D.8 - Apply inverse operations to solve equations or formulas for a given variable.
Competencies
Mathematical Modeling - Modeling (FL.MST.2.a)
Problem Solving - Creating solutions (OT.PS.2.a)
Mathematical Modeling - Using models (FL.MST.2.d)
Computational Thinking - Using algorithms (FL.MST.1.f)
Throughout this project, students will create and maintain a detailed travel itinerary for a week-long trip in Philadelphia, incorporating algebraic budgeting and problem-solving strategies. They'll develop a dynamic presentation of their itinerary, which can include visuals, written explanations, and a creative medium like a skit or video. For the final exhibition, they will refine their presentations and prepare a compelling pitch demonstrating their mathematical reasoning and creative storytelling. Each student will compile a personal reflection journal capturing insights gained through the project and demonstrating growth in computational thinking and real-world application of algebra.
Launch
Kick off the project with an immersive 'Design Your Dream Day' workshop, where students dive into planning an ideal day in Philadelphia. Begin by guiding them to think creatively about their personal preferences, interests, and budget constraints. Encourage them to draft and discuss initial itineraries, sparking excitement and curiosity about how they can use algebra to make their dream day a reality.
Exhibition
The 'Pitch Your Philly Adventure' event will be a dynamic exhibition that transforms students into travel agents in a competitive setting. Each team will present their meticulously crafted, budget-friendly Philadelphia itineraries to a panel of judges, articulating their journey through storytelling and incorporating creative elements such as skits or videos. This event encourages them to engage their audience using dramatic flair and multimedia, showcasing not just their mathematical prowess but also their creativity and personal expression in a public forum.