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This “Ponzi” Pyramid Schemes assessment also includes:
Use mathematics to show your classes the power of a good model. Young mathematicians analyze the famous Ponzi pyramid scheme using an exponential pattern. They make conclusions on the reliability of the plan and why it is illegal.
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CCSS:
Designed
Concepts
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
- Use as an introduction to exponential functions, and to illustrate how quickly an exponential model can grow
- Form collaborative groups to complete this task; ask for multiple ways to explain the solution to the first question
- Ask learners who are having difficulty finding a pattern to create a table that represents the number of people paying after each new send
- Connect to a social studies unit in which class members research historic and modern examples of Ponzi schemes
Classroom Considerations
- Learners that do not have practice answering open-ended questions may need guidance with expectations
Pros
- Includes several examples of student work
- Shows the various methods pupils can use to solve the problem
- Provided rubric gives an idea of what to look for when assessing work and how to assign points
Cons
- None