Math Wizards: Stock Market Adventure

High School Grade Project 2 weeks

Math Wizards: Stock Market Adventure

Krissy Penn

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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to deepen students' understanding of fractions and decimals through engaging, real-world applications within the stock market. By simulating stock market activities, students will develop mathematical skills crucial for analyzing and predicting stock performance. This hands-on experience aims to enhance students' financial literacy and critical thinking, equipping them with the ability to make informed investment decisions.

Learning goals

Students will develop proficiency in adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions and decimals through real-world stock market scenarios. They will enhance their ability to analyze and interpret stock performance data, using mathematical calculations to make informed investment decisions. Additionally, students will improve their communication skills by presenting their findings and strategies at the Stock Market Fair, using visual aids to effectively convey complex information.

Standards

Common Core - CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSF.IF.B.4: For a function that models a relationship between two quantities, interpret key features of graphs and tables in terms of the quantities, and sketch graphs showing key features given a verbal description of the relationship.
Common Core - CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSN.Q.A.2: Define appropriate quantities for the purpose of descriptive modeling.
Common Core - CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSN.Q.A.3: Choose a level of accuracy appropriate to limitations on measurement when reporting quantities.

Products

Throughout the project, students will create a portfolio documenting their stock market analysis, including calculations of stock price changes using fractions and decimals. By the end of the learning experience, each student will produce a comprehensive report detailing their investment strategy and outcomes, supported by graphs and charts. Additionally, students will design and present a visual display for the 'Stock Market Fair' to effectively communicate their findings and insights.

Launch

Kick off the project with a dynamic 'Fraction Frenzy Stock Exchange' event. Students will engage in a mock stock market game using play money to buy and sell stocks. They'll practice real-time fraction and decimal calculations, setting the stage for their stock market exploration.

Exhibition

During the 'Stock Market Fair,' students will set up interactive booths to present their stock analysis projects. Each booth will feature visual aids such as graphs and charts that illustrate their mathematical calculations and investment strategies. Students will engage attendees by explaining their process of tracking stock performance and making investment decisions using fractions and decimals. The fair will provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate their understanding and communicate their findings to peers, teachers, and community members.

Plan

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Activities	Introduction to Stock Market: Begin with a discussion on what the stock market is and how it can be used to generate wealth. Use real-world examples to illustrate key concepts.	Fraction Frenzy Stock Exchange Event: Engage students in a mock stock market game using play money to buy and sell stocks. They will practice adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions and decimals in real-time.	Math Skills Review: Review adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions and decimals using stock price data. Use interactive scenarios where students calculate stock price changes.	Guest Speaker Session: Invite Mr. Hern to provide a mini-lesson on the stock market, focusing on how fractions and decimals are used in real-world stock trading.	Stock Selection and Simulation Setup: Students will select a few stocks they want to track over the two-week period. They will begin by researching historical performance and setting up a spreadsheet for tracking daily changes.
Deliverables	1. Completed Know/Need to Know Chart: Students will fill in a chart outlining what they know and need to know about fractions, decimals, and stock market concepts. 2. Stock Selection and Rationale: Each student will submit a brief write-up explaining their stock choices and initial observations based on historical data.
Preparation	1. Prepare Materials for Fraction Frenzy Event: Gather play money, stock cards, and calculators for the mock stock market game. 2. Coordinate with Mr. Hern: Arrange for the guest speaker session, confirming date, time, and any needed materials or technology. 3. Create Resource Packets: Assemble packets with information on fractions, decimals, and stock market basics to support student learning. 4. Set Up Online Spreadsheet Template: Create and share a Google Sheets template for students to use in tracking their selected stocks.

Week 2	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Activities	Continue Stock Tracking and Data Analysis: Students will analyze daily changes in their selected stocks using fractions and decimals. They will update their spreadsheets with the latest stock data, calculating percentage changes and overall performance.	Investment Strategy Development: Based on their analysis, students will formulate an investment strategy. They should consider factors such as risk, historical performance, and potential future trends.	Graphing and Visualization Workshop: Students will learn to create graphs and charts using their stock data, highlighting key trends and insights. This will prepare them for presenting information clearly at the Stock Market Fair.	Portfolio Review and Peer Feedback: Students will exchange their portfolios with peers for feedback. They will use a rubric to evaluate each other's calculations, strategies, and visual presentations.	Stock Market Fair Preparation: Students will finalize their visual presentations and practice explaining their findings and strategies. They will set up their booths, ensuring they have all necessary materials for the fair.
Deliverables	1. Completed Stock Tracking Spreadsheet: An updated spreadsheet with all calculations and data analysis. 2. Investment Strategy Report: A written report detailing each student's investment strategy, supported by data and analysis. 3. Graph and Chart Portfolio: A set of visual aids that illustrate stock performance and analysis, ready for display at the Stock Market Fair. 4. Presentation at Stock Market Fair: Students will present their analysis and strategies at the fair, using their graphs and charts to engage with visitors.
Preparation	1. Gather Materials for Graphing Workshop: Ensure availability of graphing software or tools, and printed instructions or tutorials. 2. Prepare Feedback Rubric: Create and distribute a rubric for peer feedback on portfolios. 3. Coordinate Stock Market Fair Logistics: Arrange the venue, set up booths, and ensure necessary technology (e.g., projectors, laptops) is available. 4. Compile Resources for Further Learning: Provide additional reading materials or resources for students interested in deepening their understanding of stock markets.