Have you heard of the Mathematics Assessment Project (MAP)? If you haven't go here NOW and check it out! They create AMAZING lessons that are task based and perfect as we continue implementing the common core standards as well as integrating more exploratory learning of mathematics.
I used part of their Interpreting Distance-Time Graphs lesson to launch my unit on Functions and it went SO well! Students were asking amazing questions and really piecing things together on their own.
Purpose
- I just used the cards (graphs and descriptions only, pages 14-16 of the linked PDF) to intro the unit and just let students explore. I didn't correct their matches, I just wanted them to start thinking about what made sense.
- This would also be a great culminating activity to allow students to show mastery of reading functions and understanding time-distance graphs
- This activity gets students talking about functions and what makes sense!
Outline
- Have students work in partners, trios, or teams of 4
- Page 5 of the linked PDF has a wonderful outline for how to launch this with your class by doing one example together
- Once students understand the process, pass out pages 14-16 of the linked PDF and instruct students to cut out all the cards, then match a graph with a story.
- Listen to the amazing conversations :)
- Once students match the graphs and stories, give them poster paper and glue. I instructed my students to also write why they matched that particular graph and story together on the poster.
- Extension: Do a gallery walk for students to see how others matched!
Time Estimate
- It took about 40 minutes for students to cut, match, and glue onto a poster with explanations.
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| Example of finished student poster |