LEARN NC

K–12 teaching and learning · from the UNC School of Education

Choosing the best option

http://illuminations.nctm.org/LessonDetail.aspx?ID=L365

A lesson plan for Grades 3–5 Mathematics

Provider: National Council of Teachers of Mathematics

About this resource

Appropriate grades
3–5
Subjects
mathematics (probability, statistics)
Provider
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics

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During this lesson, student groups use data collected in the previous lesson to select a plan for a trip to Disneyland or Disney World. Using skills they developed in the previous lessons, students determine not only elapsed time and distance, but extend their problem solving to figuring meals, lodging, air travel, and incidentals in order to select the best option. Illuminations provides detailed instructions for completing the activity.

Students will:

  • Select appropriate methods and tools for computing with whole numbers from among mental computation, estimation, calculators, and paper and pencil.
  • Use charts to draw conclusions.
  • Become familiar with standard units.

NCTM Standards and Expectations:

  • Represent data using tables and graphs such as line plots, bar graphs, and line graphs.

North Carolina Curriculum Alignment

Mathematics (2004)

Grade 3

  • Goal 4: Data Analysis and Probability - The learner will understand and use data and simple probability concepts.
    • Objective 4.01: Collect, organize, analyze, and display data (including circle graphs and tables) to solve problems.

Grade 4

  • Goal 4: Data Analysis and Probability - The learner will understand and use graphs, probability, and data analysis.
    • Objective 4.01: Collect, organize, analyze, and display data (including line graphs and bar graphs) to solve problems.
    • Objective 4.04: Design experiments and list all possible outcomes and probabilities for an event.

Grade 5

  • 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 stem-and-leaf plots) to solve problems.