Have Fun Skiing But Watch That Slope!

Kurma Murrain, Algebra I, West Charlotte High School

Final Unit (PDF)

Implementing Common Core Standards

200 Word Synopsis

Since finding the slope is a fundamental algebra concept that some students start to grasp in 7th grade, it is mandatory for them to start developing some math skills early in order to master it in ninth grade. They might be asked to find the slope of a line by looking at a graph or by manipulating an equation.

Previous to getting to this point (so to speak), students need to learn how to solve for a given variable and how to find points on a graph; also, they learn that two points determine a specific line, and plot points that represent real life data.

The applications this seminar have to my unit vary broadly from the concept itself to drama to games to graphing, making learning slope engaging and fun, using cross curricular lessons so students can be participating in discussions such as what a point on the coordinate plane means, not necessarily using mathematical terms but talking about what is dear and important to them and how they see the world they live in.

It is important to note that though I have created this unit for a SIOP (Shelter Instruction Observation Protocol) class, it can be applied to regular classes as well. Here you will find activities to engage students and their very diverse learning styles.