Linear Progression using a Slinky and Candy

This is an excellent lesson plan in which students will collect data, make a table of values, scatter plot, line of best fit, analyze slope and intercept, and answer higher order thinking questions relating to the activity. Students will use a slinky as a scale and measure the "weight" of candy pieces to complete the aforementioned tasks. This lesson plan uses small groups to complete the tasks. For a class that is not leveled, placing lower ability students with higher ability students is highly recommended.

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Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives:

Upon completion of this lesson, students will learn about slope, y-intercepts, linear progressions and the slope-intercept form of an equation of a line.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level:

Applying

Differentiation suggestions:

Have the LD teacher present when dealing with students who may need the extra help. I would also pair weaker students with the stronger students who have the ability to explain several concepts.

Helpful Hints

Materials/ Equipment:
Slinky (cut into 4 equal parts), wire cutter, M&Ms (or other candy that is about the same size and weight), another type of weight (heavier candy or dimes), two meter sticks or yardsticks per group, small cup (I used the containers that holds a roll of film), wire, masking tape, graph paper, looseleaf paper (for notes and to record information), straight edge, pencils, graphing calculators, ClarisWorks or Microsoft Word.

References

Contributors:

Ashley King

Originator:

Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation