"Mathematical Investigations"
Created by Kathryn Gregorich
Wayne State University

ID #: 4052

Subject Area: Mathematics
Grade Level: 7

Lesson Summary
Students will solve a posted problem revolving around the “Fibonacci” sequence of numbers. Students will work in pairs to solve the problem. Then, students will post and publish their solutions. Students will then respond to at least 2 other posted solutions. Explaining why they agree or disagree with the posted response.

Learning Objectives and Computer Functions
This lesson plan uses 0 objectives.

Problem
Problem Nature
This lesson will focus on the real world application of mathematics in real life work situations. Students will get a chance to apply problem solving skills in a real context.

Notes on Using Data

Students will be provided with a copy of the problem statement, think sheet, and access to the internet. In pairs, they will first try to solve the problem. Then, students will create a posting in a designated area in the “Blog” site. Students will then view and comment on one another’s work. Data will be saved on the "Blog" site.

Problem Statement
Imagine you are an agent for the F.B.I. (Federal Bureau of Investigation). Recently at the local airport there have been some reports of car theft from the parking lot. At the scene of each crime the thief leaves a calculator in place of each car that is stolen. You have reason to believe that the car thefts are mathematically related. The parking attendant of “SAFE-lot” has kept a log of the stolen cars for the week. On Monday, no cars were stolen. On Tuesday, 1 car was stolen. On Wednesday, 1 car was stolen. On Thursday, 2 cars were stolen. On Friday three cars were stolen. Your job is to predict how many cars will be stolen (at the current rate) on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. You and your partner will need to solve the problem above. Then, you will post the problem on the “blog” site. After that, look at the solutions posted by 2 other groups. Do you agree or disagree? Why or why not? Think about the problem solving strategies we have discussed in class and use your think sheet to get started.

Data Manipulation
Instructions
The learner used computers at level

Integration Strategies
intermediate

Organization Strategies
Students will create a “KWL” chart before solving the problem. They must first complete what they “Know” and what they “Want” to figure out. After, students will complete the “learn” part of the table.

Elaboration Strategies
Students will write out the problem solving strategies in their own words.

Results Presentation

To present their results, students will create a posting on the free “Blog” site (http://new.blogger.com/home.pyra). Prior to given out the problem statement, it is assumed that all students will have a profiler on Blogger and will be invited

Activities
Activities Before Using the Computer
First, students will begin by brainstorming the problem solving strategies that they know. Then, students will write the strategies in their own words. After that, students will be completing a "KWL" chart about the problem.