Project-Based Learning
JS Logo ProjectLogo Project
The Logo Project is a comprehensive linear equations project that includes key concepts such as slope, types of equations, domain and range, parallel and perpendicular lines, linear transformation, and so much more. I have tweaked this project to be used as a discovery in the beginning of the linear equations unit or as a culminating project at the end of the unit. It can also be modified to include linear inequalities, quadratics, or other functions! The goal is for students to create a logo or design of their choosing by writing equations of lines to design it. We use the Desmos graphing calculator for this. Students have SO much fun working on their creations and do not even realize how much they are truly learning.
Below are some examples of student work from 8th grade Algebra students at Williamsburg Middle School.
Systems of Equations Jigsaw
Systems of Equations is a unit unlike any other in the Algebra 1 curriculum. The methods of solving a system can be learned non-sequentially. I created a unit plan where students became experts in one method, then taught their method to other students and in return, learned the other methods from other students! They ultimately "teach themselves" their assigned method through research and discovery in order to become an expert. This creates a large student buy-in because as we know, students love to be the experts! Once they are experts in their method, creating a presentation and teaching it to their classmates becomes fun, easy, and a valuable learning experience for all students involved.
JS Substitution Experts .pdfJS Substitution Experts Rubric.pdfBelow are some examples of presentations used by students when teaching their method to other classmates.