This weeks class explored the topics of integers and exponents. Though these two subjects were scheduled to be learned, the presentations for this week only focused on exponents. Two presentations stood out to me as they both approached integers in two different ways, both of which kept students busy and engaged.
The first presentation that stood out to me gave each group 2 question. The answer to each questions was a series of 4 integers that would be determined using the 4 clues provided. Some examples of clues that were provided are as follows:
1. The first integer and the last integer have a sum of 28.
2. When arranged from least to greatest, the 4th integer minus the 2nd integer equals 8.
3. The first two integers when multiplied together will equal 12.
4. All four numbers are even.
Knowing these clues, students must arrange different possible answers that fulfill these requirements, while of course knowing that there is only one sequence of 4 numbers that can be correct. This lesson was great as it required each group to work together and think critically about the possible solutions for the question. The only problem that i had with this was when the presenter explained that there should have been 8 clues instead of 4. Considering how every single group struggle to get an answer with only 4 clues, i believe that having 4 more would have made a noticeable difference.
The second presentation worth mentioning also explored integers but did so in a way that had real life practical applications. The presenter compiled several questions that used these real life practical applications and had each group solve them. One question had a starting temperature, then had a series of temperature increases and decreases over a span of a couple days and then asked what the final temperature would be. By using a number line, students in intermediate grades can visualize how the temperature is changing in the question. The same method of questions were used for representing a series of golf scores. By taking positive and negative integers and placing them on a number line, students could see the change that occurred given the numbers provided. I believe that this type of question is great for students because it can be explained in simple, real life terms that they can understand.
I would definitely consider using these lessons in my future classroom. I think that the question with the hints given requires students to work together and use critical thinking and problem solving skills which are essential to develop. The real life practical examples in the questions are also very useful and applying them alongside a number line can produce a great visual for students of all grades and all levels.
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