Quadratic Functions and the World Around YOU

Grade Level: Algebra I/Algebra II

Topic: Linear and Quadratic Functions

Environment: This is written for a virtual classroom but can be adjusted for in person learning using 1-1 devices, computer labs or instructor projector and print outs.

Objective: Students will engage in a multiphase unit on quadratic functions.  The activities will provide students to make connections between math and their world.  They will also be given the opportunity to collaborate with their peers and share their findings through a presentation.

Note: the purpose of primary sources here are to open the student’s eyes to first-hand accounts surrounding construction and mathematics.  Additionally, they will be able to explore the historical use of these techniques direct from the source.  Including actual images showcasing the use of mathematics students are studying will be a clear and concise way of showing them just how much purpose the topic has.  It’s not just something in a textbook anymore!

Activity 1: What do you NOTICE? What do you WONDER?

Use the following picture as an introduction to the unit on linear and/or quadratic functions.  Students can share their thoughts on the whiteboard and chat in the chat box. 

Students will be asked to share at least one item under NOTICE and one under WONDER.  The emphasis here is that there is no wrong answer.  Using this as an opener I want all students to feel included and comfortable to participate.

https://www.loc.gov/resource/hhh.mo1266.photos/?sp=1

Key words to touch on: vertex, increasing, decreasing, perpendicular, parallel, reflection, transformation, opening down

Activity 2: Guess Who?

Use the following activity once the mathematical concepts of quadratics have been covered. 

1. Pair students up in breakout rooms
2. Provide the five images to both students
3. Students will take turns selecting an image (without telling the other student) and then using mathematical words (key word examples from activity 1) to get them to guess the bridge they chose
3. Monitor each breakout room to ensure participation and support where needed

https://www.loc.gov/resource/hhh.mo1266.photos/?sp=4

https://www.loc.gov/resource/hhh.ny1583.photos/?sp=1

https://www.loc.gov/resource/hhh.mt0457.photos/?sp=2

https://www.loc.gov/item/2017650157/

https://www.loc.gov/item/2016800479/

Activity 3: Final Activity – Research and Present

Students will choose one of the five bridge images from activity 2.  Then do the following:

1. Investigate one of the images from activity 2, do this through the Library of Congress link provided
2. Create a PowerPoint slide to present during live class, include the following on your slide
   1. image of the bridge
   2. location of the bridge including the year
   3. research the cost associated with building this structure
   4. share at least one interesting fact you found while researching
   5. how does this bridge compare to those built today?
3. Students will then take 3- 5 minutes at the beginning of each class to share their findings