Graphical representations for the number of hits
http://illuminations.nctm.org/LessonDetail.aspx?ID=L605
A lesson plan for Grades 6–8 Mathematics
Finding a rule for the number of hits is only the first step in exploring the Paper Pool game. Students can gain a deeper understanding of the patterns by considering graphical representations of the results. The teacher engages students in a discussion about how they could graph the data they collected in previous lessons in the unit. Then, the class discusses and labels the parts of the graph. Illuminations provides a power point show, directions, and handouts necessary for completing the lesson.
Students will:
- Create graphs using data regarding the Number of Hits.
- Interpret the graphs.
NCTM Standards and Expectations:
- Represent, analyze, and generalize a variety of patterns with tables, graphs, words, and, when possible, symbolic rules.
- Model and solve contextualized problems using various representations, such as graphs, tables, and equations.
- Select, create, and use appropriate graphical representations of data, including histograms, box plots, and scatterplots.
North Carolina Curriculum Alignment
Mathematics (2004)
Grade 6
- Goal 4: Data Analysis and Probability - The learner will understand and determine probabilities.
- Objective 4.06: Design and conduct experiments or surveys to solve problems; report and analyze results
- Goal 5: Algebra - The learner will demonstrate an understanding of simple algebraic expressions.
- Objective 5.03: Solve simple (one- and two-step) equations or inequalities.
- Objective 5.04: Use graphs, tables, and symbols to model and solve problems involving rates of change and ratios.
Grade 7
- Goal 4: Data Analysis and Probability - The learner will understand and use graphs and data analysis.
- Objective 4.01: Collect, organize, analyze, and display data (including box plots and histograms) to solve problems.
- Objective 4.05: Solve problems involving two or more sets of data using appropriate statistical measures.
- Goal 5: Algebra - The learner will demonstrate an understanding of linear relations and fundamental algebraic concepts.
- Objective 5.01: Identify, analyze, and create linear relations, sequences, and functions using symbols, graphs, tables, diagrams, and written descriptions.
- Objective 5.03: Use and evaluate algebraic expressions, linear equations or inequalities to solve problems.
Grade 8
- Goal 4: Data Analysis and Probability - The learner will understand and use graphs and data analysis.
- Objective 4.01: Collect, organize, analyze, and display data (including scatterplots) to solve problems.
- Objective 4.02: Approximate a line of best fit for a given scatterplot; explain the meaning of the line as it relates to the problem and make predictions.
- Goal 5: Algebra - The learner will understand and use linear relations and functions.
- Objective 5.01: Develop an understanding of function.
- Translate among verbal, tabular, graphic, and algebraic representations of functions.
- Identify relations and functions as linear or nonlinear.
- Find, identify, and interpret the slope (rate of change) and intercepts of a linear relation.
- Interpret and compare properties of linear functions from tables, graphs, or equations.
- Objective 5.03: Solve problems using linear equations and inequalities; justify symbolically and graphically.
- Objective 5.01: Develop an understanding of function.



