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

Spinning tops

http://illuminations.nctm.org/LessonDetail.aspx?ID=L190

A lesson plan for grades 6–8 Mathematics

Provider: National Council of Teachers of Mathematics


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Students measure distances using standard and nonstandard units and record their measurement in various tables. Then they are asked to use descriptive statistics to report the results. Illuminations provides an activity sheet and detailed instructions for completing the lesson.

Students will:

  • Measure the distance along a curve using indirect measurement.
  • Record data in chart form.
  • Compute individual and group medians.
  • Analyze data.

NCTM Standards and Expectations:

  • Select, create, and use appropriate graphical representations of data, including histograms, box plots, and scatterplots.
  • Find, use, and interpret measures of center and spread, including mean and interquartile range.
  • Select and apply techniques and tools to accurately find length, area, volume, and angle measures to appropriate levels of precision.

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

Grade 7

  • Goal 2: Measurement - The learner will understand and use measurement involving two- and three-dimensional figures.
    • Objective 2.01: Draw objects to scale and use scale drawings to solve problems.
  • 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 4.02: Calculate, use, and interpret the mean, median, mode, range, frequency distribution, and inter-quartile range for a set of data.
    • Objective 4.03: Describe how the mean, median, mode, range, frequency distribution, and inter-quartile range of a set of data affect its graph.
    • Objective 4.05: Solve problems involving two or more sets of data using appropriate statistical measures.

Grade 8

  • Goal 2: Measurement - The learner will understand and use measurement concepts.
    • Objective 2.01: Determine the effect on perimeter, area or volume when one or more dimensions of two- and three-dimensional figures are changed.
  • 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.