Pumpkin Plotting Project
Instructional Plan
Overview:
Students complete equations to determine values of points. They then plot the points to create a design. Next, students make a design on a coordinate plane and create equations to equal the points of their design. Finally, students enter the Pumpkin Contest.
Objectives:
- Solve multi-step equations
- Create multi-step equations
- Plot points on a coordinate plane
Materials:
- Pumpkin Plotting Activity
- Rulers
Pumpkin Plotting
Students will complete the Pumpkin Plotting Activity. This activity requires students to solve equations to determine the coordinates of a design. Students then plot the coordinates to make the design.
Create Your Own Pumpkin Design
1. Design a picture on a coordinate plane that only has lines (no curves). The design must have at least 10 points.
2. Figure equations that equal the x and y values of all the points of your picture. (Make sure to meet the equation requirements.)
3. Enter the Pumpkin Contest-Carve or paint your design onto a pumpkin. A winner from each class will receive a prize. All pumpkins must be submitted to the contest by
October 30th.
Equation Requirements
1. Includes at least 20 equations (2 equations for each point)
2. 5 include multiplication
3. 5 include division
4. 10 2-step equations
5. 5 include negative numbers
Enter the Pumpkin Contest
I make this part of the project optional for students. Students can carve their design on a pumpkin and submit it to the Pumpkin Contest. All students who enter the contest get their work and a picture of their pumpkin displayed.
Assessments and Extensions
Assessments:
- Use the Pumpkin plotting to assess students ability to solve equations and plot points on a coordinate plane.
- When students create equations for their own design, teachers are able to assess their level of understanding by their type of equations and accuracy.
Extensions:
You can have students solve each others' equations to make their design.
Require more or less difficult equations to differentiate for students. In my attachment, there is a more difficult example of the Create Your Own Pumpkin Design that could be use for 8th grade or a more challenging 7th grade activity.