Falling off a bridge might not sound like your idea of a good math problem, but incorporating the final scene of Les Misérables is sure to spark interest. The goal is to use the time Javert fell off the bridge to determine how high he...

This comprehensive unit on linear and exponential functions provides numerous clearly-written worksheets. Topics include graphing linear equations, solving systems of equations algebraically and by graphing, identifying the domain and...

It's shark week! In this problem, young mathematically minded marine biologists need to study the fish population by analyzing data over time. The emphasis is on understanding the average rate of change of the population and drawing...

Learners will explore linear functions. They start by comparing linear functions representing two trains racing toward each other. Next, they solve related word problems and complete corresponding data tables, graphs, and worksheets....

Graphs tell a story, and in this activity learners explore different graphs.They analyze slope and rate of change from the graphs and answer questions about the information they represent. This lesson even contains extensions for more...

Come up with a great idea and change the world for the better. Working in groups of three, learners apply their knowledge of photovoltaic systems to design a battery-powered electric vehicle capable of replacing gas-powered cars. They...

The sun can even charge batteries. The fourth of five lessons in the Solar Transportation unit has pupils design a charger that uses solar modules to charge a 12-volt lead-acid battery. They estimate the charge that accumulates and...

Take charge of learning about electric vehicles. Instructors first provide the class with information about PV modules and batteries. Learners then conduct an experiment where they connect PV modules in series and in parallel to...

Slopes are everywhere—even in houses! Given a picture of a house, learners find lines with positive, negative, zero, and no slopes. Scholars determine the equation of the lines by calculating the slopes and y-intercepts. Class members...

The class takes a trip about the school and find four places to measure the rise and run of objects that represent slope in the building. Pairs work together to calculate the slope of each object and determine whether any ramp they find...

Ramp up the study of slope. The class participates in a discussion about the physical aspects of stairs and ramps they encounter. Small groups work together and measure a staircase and corresponding ramp to calculate the slope of each....

Scholars decide which job to take based on the pay. They then research cars to potentially purchase and determine the total cost of the car. Finally, they calculate how long they would have to work to purchase the car along with how much...

Make sure it flows smoothly. Pairs research plumbing codes to find the required slope for a sewer line. Using the information, groups answer several questions involving interpreting the slope. Pupils determine the cost of pipe to run a...

Make up a story about a linear graph. Scholars identify key features of a linear graph, such as intercepts, domain and range, and slope. They then create a word problem that could be represented by the graphed line.