Precalculus Art
By solving rational equations, Precalculus students were able to work together to create a colored pencil mosaic resembling Van Gogh’s Starry Night.
Mathematics
Bungee Jumping Statistics
Statistics students conducted a bungee jumping experiment by attaching dolls to an increasing number of rubber bands. They measured how far the doll would drop each time they added a band, and after they added the 7th band they plotted the data and predicted the ideal number of rubber bands they should use to bungie jump their toy from the back stairwell. The goal is to get as close as possible to the floor without actually hitting it.
Geometry Art
Artistry becomes a lot more difficult without the use of curves! Geometry students were asked to practice using points, lines, and angles to come up with original drawings.
Pi Day 2023
There were several Pi Day themed activities during our math classes.
The calculus students took on the challenge of learning more about the wonderful number Pi. Focusing on its history, mathematical novelty, and fun facts about the number, they then each made presentations to inform other students and faculty of their findings. They also had some pies to enjoy while learning!
Also, did you know that you can approximate Pi by timing the swing of a pendulum? Oscar gave the class the opportunity to do so, quite scientifically, by using an old video game controller, and using a copy of Sister Act as a visual marker for the center!
Our algebra students were given a recipe for a single serving of pie and had to work out the measurements to make the whole pie. They also had to work with only a 1/3 cup and 1/2 tbsp for measuring the ingredients so there were a whole lot of fraction conversions going on!
Everyone also enjoyed cake at lunch in celebration of Albert Einstein’s birthday.
Roller Coaster Mathematics
While the French students were visiting, the Algebra 2 and Calculus classes collaborated to build a roller coaster. They used butcher paper to measure the x and y axes. The whiteboard shows the piecewise function they wrote along with the graph approximating the form of the coaster.
MathLibs
Bethany’s Calculus students challenged each other with “Math-Libs”. Students took turns choosing a classmate, math problem, and activity (like jumping, snapping, humming, etc). Then the chosen student had to complete the problem while doing the activity. Lifelines were allowed.
Jenga Math
Jess’s Algebra students mixed it up in class using a Jenga set. Each block has an equation on the visible long side and the answer on the hidden side. You have to solve the equation before you pull the block, and if you get it wrong you’ll have to go again.
Grudge Ball Returns in Calculus
Why were the Calculus students cheering and listening to inspirational 80’s music? Because by solving math questions correctly they earned the chance to shoot the ball and eliminate their opponents in this “friendly” game of Grudge ball.
Calculus Retreat
Our Calculus students had the opportunity to participate in a three night retreat at Smith Mountain Lake. They studied hard preparing for their AP exams, but they also took time to enjoy each other’s company, and of course, spend time on the water. It was a very successful trip.
