Algebraic Reasoning Class Summary 9/16/13

Fabulous Function Machine!

with Kim Rodgers

Our first day together began by talking about respect in the classroom and how to be able to have a discussion with a group of 11, showing with our body language how we were listening to each other. We then went around sharing our names and a mathematical operation that represented ourselves...or one we just liked!

Here’s where the class dove into our first challenge! Professor Arbegal sent us her Fabulous Function Machine. Using a T-chart, the students had to figure out what was going on inside the machine. The first few times we used it, students found themselves over-thinking what could be happening, which was a good first lesson. Don’t overlook what might be quite simple! They broke into groups and came up with a function of their own. This was challenging as well, because they wanted it to be difficult for the other groups. I had to remind them that the goal wasn’t necessarily to stump the others, but to create one that required some problem solving in a manageable way. After some tweaking, the groups got together and presented their functions.

I was so impressed with this group’s ability to participate right away. I stressed with them that they weren’t expected to be right all the time, but that they were expected to TRY. Every single student displayed this right from the start.

I didn’t assign any homework, but if they are interested, they can come up with some functions for your family to solve. Next week, we will introduce more sophisticated functions and begin putting together an Algebra Toolbox.  

See you then!

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