Activity Overview
This activity features a map of the state of Michigan. Students are instructed to give the teacher driving directions from one point in the state to another.
The students accomplish this task by finding the correct linear equation that contains those two points.
Before the Activity
Start the activity by telling the students that you need directions from one place in the state to another.
This can be customized for your area.
If the boys football team has a game in another county that evening, I might use that county as the destination. Of course the directions could be changed to suit any location within the Michigan area.
During the Activity
Begin the activity by allowing the students' to submit their equations. When I find an answer that provides a teachable moment, then I will pause the activity and talk to the students' a bit about it.
Example: If someone puts in a line with a slope that has the wrong sign, I will ask the class what could be changed about this line to get closer to the right answer.
After the Activity
Review student results:
As a class, discuss questions that appeared to be more challenging
Re-teach concepts as necessary