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Data Analysis and Probability

Sorting Polygons

6-8
Students identify and classify polygons according to various attributes. They then sort the polygons in Venn Diagrams, according to these attributes. Extensions to fundamental ideas about probability and statistics are also included. This lesson was adapted from an article written by Carol G. Williams, which appeared in the March‑April 1998 edition of Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School.
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Measurement

Inclined Plane

6-8
Students time balls rolling down inclines of varying lengths and heights, then try to make inferences about the relationship among the variables involved. Students decide which variables are important (and can be measured), how best to collect the data, and how to interpret the data. This lesson plan is adapted from an article by Thomas Edwards, which appeared in the November - December 1995 edition of Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School.
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Algebra

Real Estate Tycoon

6-8
In this year-long project, students design, "build," and "sell" a house; after which they simulate investment of the profits in the stock market. Along the way, students make scale drawings, compute with fractions and decimals in various contexts, and even solve simple equations. This lesson plan was adapted from an article by David B. Smith, which appeared in the September 2000 edition of Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School.
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Geometry

Finding Your Way Around

6-8
Students explore two-dimensional space via an activity in which they navigate the coordinate plane. This NCTM Publication-Based Lesson Plan is adapted from the article,"Tips for Teaching Cartesian Graphing: Linking Concepts and Procedures" by Cathy G. Schloemer, which appeared in Teaching Children Mathematics, Vol. 1, No. 1 (September 1994) pp. 20-23.
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Algebra

Building Connections

9-12
This lesson focuses on having students make connections among different classes of polynomial functions by exploring the graphs of the functions. The questions in the activity sheets allow students to make connections between the x-intercepts of the graph of a polynomial and the polynomial's factors. This activity is designed for students who already have a strong understanding of linear functions, some knowledge of quadratic functions, and what is meant by a polynomial function.
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Geometry

Counting Embedded Figures

6-8, 9-12
This grades 7-12 activity allows students to look for patterns within the given data. After looking at the pattern, the student should be able to form generalizations for the problem. Furthermore, this activity sharpens the algebraic skills of the students. The problem sharpens visualization skills.
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Number and Operations

Understanding Rational Numbers and Proportions

6-8

In this lesson, students use real-world models to develop an understanding of fractions, decimals, unit rates, proportions, and problem solving.

The three activities in this investigation center on situations involving rational numbers and proportions that students encounter at a bakery. These activities involve several important concepts of rational numbers and proportions, including partitioning a unit into equal parts, the quotient interpretation of fractions, the area model of fractions, determining fractional parts of a unit not cut into equal-sized pieces, equivalence, unit prices, and multiplication of fractions.

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Number and Operations

Multiplying Integers Using Videotape

6-8
In this lesson, students experience beginning-algebra concepts through discussion, exploration, and videotaping. The concept of multiplication of integers is presented in a format which encourages understanding, not simply rote memorization of facts. This lesson plan is adapted from the article, "A Videotaping Project to Explore the Multiplication of Integers", by Marcia B. Cooke, which appeared in Arithmetic Teacher, Vol. 41, No. 3 (November 1993) pp. 170-171.
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Algebra

What Comes Nex_?

3-5
The following activities deal with patterns and the importance of looking at data from more than a single perspective. Included are explorations designed to encourage open-mindedness and to help students develop alternative viewpoints. Students investigate a series of items that appear to be ordered in some "obvious" ways. Students also explore ways of sorting items into two disjoint groups on the basis of some definable characteristic. This lesson was adapted from "What Comes Nex_?", written by William R. Speer & Daniel J. Brahier. It appeared in the October, 1995 Teaching Children Mathematics Vol. 2, no. 2.
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Data Analysis and Probability

Weather Watchers

3-5

Students collect and analyze data about the weather and learn to make a stem-and-leaf plot. Students use newspapers, the Internet, or other sources to collect weather data.

This lesson was adapted from "Finding Our Top Speed", as found in Mission Mathematics II: Grades 6–8, a joint NASA/NCTM project, NCTM 2005.