Differentiated Instruction: Lesson Outline for Algebra

1. November 2, 2010 UCHS Differentiated Instruction:Lesson Outlinefor Algebra

2. Goals • CLE 3102.3.8: Solve and understand solutions of quadratic equations with real roots. • CLE 3102.3.9: Understand and use exponential functions to solve contextual problems

3. Specific Learning Objectives • SPI 3102.3.11: Analyze nonlinear graphs including quadratic and exponential functions that model a contextual situation • SWBAT recognize graphs or data as quadratic or exponential. • SWBAT to collect and/or organize data. • SWBAT convert data to appropriate graph. • SWBAT analyze and summarize data from a quadratic or exponential graph. • SWBAT relate word problems and real-world situations to quadratic & exponential graphs.

4. Pre-assessment • Informal assessment via background and introductory discussion & questions. • Quick formal pre-test where students: • Match data tables to appropriate graphs • Label graphs as quadratic, exponential, or other

5. Link to Real World Applications • Stress to students the importance of problem-solving • Stress to students the importance of critical-thinking • Jobs using quadratics: computer techs, engineers, HR, forestry, logging, conservation, etc. • Jobs using exponentials: chemists, bankers, accountants, government, computer techs, engineers, forestry, logging, conservation, etc.

6. Group Instructional Activities • Model/show examples of quadratic & exponential functions. • Model graphing of functions using a data table by hand and with computer program/graphing calculator. • Model creating table of data from graphs by hand and with computer program/graphing calculator.

7. Differentiated Instruction:Menu Overview • List of different activities • Students choose activities based on ability level or interest: (grouped by teacher) • Advanced student choose at least 4 activities • Proficient student choose at least 3 activities • Basic student choose at least 2 activities • Below Basic student choose at least 1 activity • Grades based on average of all activity grades

8. Differentiated Instruction:Activity Menu • Using data table draw graphs on graph paper. • Walk-out giant example of graphs (outside, commons areas, gym, etc.) • Matching exercise with contextual situations and appropriate graphs. • Using graphs create data tables. • Perform experiments to collect data and graph results (experiments selected by teacher). • Research project where students find and explain real-world uses of quadratic and exponential functions/graphs.

9. Strategies for Re-teaching • Monitor each group. • Answer questions as needed. • Have groups bring completed work to teacher for immediate feedback & evaluation. • Have students correct or re-work results based on feedback. • Repeat feedback and re-work process as necessary.

10. Assessment Strategies • Informal assessment during initial instructional and group monitoring. • Formal assessments are a culmination or average of activity grades. • Have students pick the results of one activity to present to the class for final class discussion and content assessment.

11. Closure • Class discussion of group presentations • Display work around room if appropriate • Use tie-ins or transitions to lead into next unit