In this hands-on, real-world math activity, students take on the role of entrepreneurs creating a proposal for their own bungee jump company. Working in teams, they brainstorm a company name and business goals, then experiment by dropping a Barbie doll with increasing numbers of rubber bands to simulate a bungee jump. Students collect and analyze data, calculate averages, create scatterplots, and use technology to generate a line of best fit. Using linear regression, they make predictions to determine the safest and most thrilling number of rubber bands for a jump from a set height. The lesson culminates in a final test jump and reflection on accuracy and business strategy. This activity builds skills in data analysis, mathematical modeling, teamwork, and real-world application of algebra and statistics.

Time: 1-6 Days (I have broken this activity in 6 days as seen below. I completed this activity in 4 days (90 minute) by having students complete the 4 sectioned parts in the activity each day.)

Day 1: Launch the Challenge & Plan the Business

Focus: Introduction, brainstorming, and context building

• Introduce the Barbie Bungee Company Proposal Challenge
  
• Show a short hook video or demonstration of a bungee jump (real or toy Barbie)
  
• Explain safety vs. thrill balance in bungee jumping
  
• Students form groups and brainstorm:
  
  • Company name and mission
    
  • Preferred bungee jump location from three options (with justification)
    

• Begin planning how they’ll collect data and prepare materials
  

✅ Goal: Groups are formed and ready to begin the experiment tomorrow.

Day 2: Collect Experimental Data

Focus: Hands-on data collection

• Review safety and how to conduct consistent trials
  
• Groups drop Barbie from a fixed height with 0–7 rubber bands (or more)
  
• Measure and record the drop distance for each trial (5 trials per number of bands)
  
• Begin calculating mean distances for each number of rubber bands
  

✅ Goal: Each group completes their data table with accurate averages.

Day 3: Graph and Analyze the Data

Focus: Visualizing the relationship

• On graph paper (or digitally), students:
  
  • Create a scatterplot
    
  • Label axes and title their graph
    
  • Observe trends and sketch a line of best fit
    

• Discuss patterns observed: Is it linear? Any outliers?
  

✅ Goal: Students have a complete graph and start thinking about modeling.

Day 4: Create and Interpret the Linear Model

Focus: Technology + regression equation

• Use StatsMedic applet or graphing calculator/Desmos:
  
  • Input number of bands (x) and mean distance (y)
    
  • Generate and record the least-squares regression equation
    
  • Identify and interpret slope and y-intercept in context
    

• Convert cm data to meters (unit conversions)
  

✅ Goal: Students use the model to predict # of bands needed for a new jump height.

Day 5: Predict & Scale the Model + Final Jump

Focus: Application and testing

• Based on the linear model, students:
  
  • Predict number of rubber bands for a jump from a tall height (e.g., 10 m)
    
  • Scale that number down for a test jump from 3 m
    
  • Justify their calculation using ratios or proportions
    

• Conduct the final 3-meter Barbie jump
  
• Class discussion: Which groups were closest? Why?
  

✅ Goal: Conduct test jump and reflect on accuracy and business viability.

Day 6 (Optional): Reflect, Present, and Propose

Focus: Communication and reflection

• Groups write a company proposal:
  
  • Summary of their process and findings
    
  • Justification for their chosen location and jump design
    
  • Reflection on success and areas for improvement
    

• Optional: Groups present proposals to a panel (classmates or guest “investors”)
  

✅ Goal: Students articulate their learning and apply it in a business context.