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In this real-world application of polynomial functions, students will analyze population changes by comparing linear, quadratic, and cubic function representations. They will research the causes and effects of the population changes to justify their answers.
This project-based assessment includes two pages of student material with a grading rubric and an opportunity for extensions. It can be completed in groups or as an individual, alternative assessment.
This polynomial functions activity includes:
– 2 pages of student material
– 5 different scenarios based on real data
– room for extensions of this activity
– critical thinking and reflection questions
– teacher directions and grading rubric
Your students will:
– graph and analyze functions using Desmos
– analyze population pattern changes
– research their specific elephant or rhino and defend the math using evidence
How is this real life application different from regular word problems?
Most word problems have one question that needs to be answered and little follow up or detail. My real world math activities stretch one idea or scenario into a meaningful performance task that can be used as a full assessment of student learning.
This application is more than interpreting the question and quickly getting to the answer. Your students will be challenged to think critically about each scenario and defend their solutions.
The best part? All of the topics are relevant and modernized (because kids don’t care about calculating CD sales or cell phone minutes anymore).
You may also like:
⭐ Evaluating Functions Self-Checking Task Cards
⭐ Identifying Functions Card Sort
⭐ Parent Functions and Transformations Digital Activity Bundle
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