Hopping with Polynomials
by Lisa Dick, pencilbo@websterpsb.org

Content Area(s)
Math

Grade Level(s)
8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 

Overview
Hopping with Polynomials begins with an introduction to systems of equations using a video, Power of Algebra-Polynomials and Equations, and ebook, Algebra I. Students then proceed to summarize the information introduced and test their understanding using Palm software, Quiz Wiz. Applications of the skills are applied through participation in a GPS systems of equations egg hunt.

Software
ereader
Flingit
Quiz Wiz
Memo, notepad, sketchy, voice recorder

Technology
GPS
Unitedstreaming video - "Power of Algebra-Polynomials and Equations"
Rubric

Objectives
TLW determine various ways to solve systems of equations through reading and video.
TLS record information about systems of equations using various applications.
TLW relate systems of equations to real life through viewing video and egg hunt.
TLW solve systems of equations using Quiz Wiz.
TLW apply systems of equations to an egg hunt.

Procedures
Divide students into predetermined groups. Each group should have a mixture of knowledge and technological levels. Depending on the technology available, each student or group receives a Palm. Everyone receives a copy of rubric and directions.

Students take their Palm and complete the following in groups.
1. Read ebook - Algebra I
2. Watch video - "Power of Algebra - Polynomials and Equations" *The video can be set up at computer stations or on Palms depending on technology available.
3. Take notes on the above information using memo, notepad, sketchy, and voice recorder. *At least one of each per group
4. Beam the notes within the group so each student received a collection of notes.
5. Discuss within your group.

Conduct whole class discussion and sharing from the groups.

Students individually test their knowledge of systems of equations using Quiz Wiz, "Equation Quizzer."
Question/Answer
Students overview "Hopping with Polynomials website. *Fling it
Each group is assigned one of the hunts.
For the hunt assigned they most complete the following:
1. Determine the starting place
2. Solve the system of equation
3. Walk the paces found through solving the problem
4. Use the GPS add-on to record the starting point, path taken, and ending point.
5. Swap the GPS directions and hunt solution with another group.
6. Complete the other groups hunt and determine if you agree their findings.
7. Record 2, 4, and 6 in your own selected format (voice, word, etc.)
8. Beam #7 to the group in which you swapped hunts.
Whole class discussion *Below are examples of of higher order questions:
Give students the coordinates for the egg locations.
Did you find an egg at the coordinate given? If not, what factors could come into play that affect your coordinate versus mine.
Was the other group able to locate you solution using their GPS?

*As discuss students rotate one person per group to print their day’s work.
*After printing the information is sent to the teacher’s Palm

Other Supporting Material
Hopping%20with%20Polynomials%20website
Quiz%20Wiz%20-%20Equation%20Quizzer
Hopping%20with%20Polynomials%20Student%20Directions
Hopping%20with%20Polynomials%20Rubric

Submitted on: 5/12/2005 8:47:28 AM