Math Session 2Mathematical Practices 4 & 5

Modeling with MathPARCC Task Types

Lesson Study

Modeling with Math

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Modeling with Math

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“Mathematical modeling is the link between mathematics and the rest of the world.” (Meerschaert, M., Mathematical Modeling,Elsevier Science, 2010)

The process of beginning with a situation and gaining understanding about that situation is generally referred

to as “modeling”. If the understanding comes about through the use of mathematics, the process is known

as mathematical modeling. 

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Modeling with MathGOAL: students pose their own questions

about the world and use math to answer those questions

TEACHER’S JOB: construct situations in which students are choosing math to better understand their everyday life

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Modeling with Math

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Students

Apply prior knowledge to new problems and reflect

Use representations to solve real life problems

Apply formulas and equations where appropriate

Teachers

Pose problems connected to previous concepts

Provide a variety of real world contexts

Use intentional representations

Modeling Steps1. Identify a problem situation2. Make a representation of one or more

elements of the situation3. Create a mathematical expression4. Compare results or predictions from the

mathematical model with the real situation5. Make revisions to the model if needed

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Modeling with Math

Elementary Grades:

Ensure the math students engage in helps them see and interpret the world

Type of thinking required more important than the context

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Modeling with Math

1. Give it context2. Go deeper3. Tap into resources

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Modeling with MathGive it Context

Consider applications of the workTo think deeply, math needs to be in contextSpend less time on repetitive problemsMore time with real scenarios

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Modeling with MathGo Deeper

Build longer problems with multiple steps and more than one question

Additional questions add depth and rigor – call upon students to demonstrate understanding over multiple skills

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Modeling with Math

Tap into Resources

Task prototypes from PARCC Video Story Problems (The Tech Savvy Educator) Teaching Channel

Problems with real-world implications demonstrate that what students are learning has value.

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Tap into Resourceswww.theproecenter.info

Math Playground – Thinking Blocks Watson Math California Math Project

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Tools to Support Math ModelingFractionsEquations

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