Topic: Journal writing examples for discovering symmetry and two variable functions.

Grade Level Category: 7-12

Strategy(ies) : Journals

Objective(s) Being Assessed and/or Purposes for the Assessment:
Identifying and categorizing symmetry in the student's world. Finding and interpreting a real world example of a function in two variables.

Materials Required:
Journal sheet. Students need access to a daily newspaper or internet outside of class.

Description of the Activity:
After studying symmetry in class, assign journal 4.3. Encourage students to use the vocabulary discussed in class when classifying the type of symmetry.

Prior to discussing functions in two variables, assign students journal 4.6. Encourage students to use the internet to download a current weather map with curves of constant temperatures. (I tell my students to use the newspaper if they can not get to a computer to use internet.) Remind students to record the web site location if they download a map (or cite the appropriate newspaper) so that their classmates can visit the site later (or check the newspaper for similar maps). Follow up each journal entry with a class discussion. You may wish to have students share ideas in small groups first and then report the best or most unusual ideas (discoveries) during full class discussion.

The last part of journal 4.6 should be completed (or reassigned) after the class discussion. It is interesting and informative to see student responses to the last questions prior to a formal discussion of functions in two variables.

Reproducible Page(s):
The following page may be reproduced for your students.
Individual Process Check
Group Process Check

Extensions(s):
After journal 4.6, students will want to share other experiences they have had while exploring the internet. This is an excellent opportunity for students to teach one another.

Management Tips:
With large classes it is helpful to break into small groups for the initial discussion of the journal entries. Instruct students to choose one or two examples from the group to share with the entire class.



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