Mathematics Active Learning

This is a comprehensive treatment of the following matrix operations: items in the same position are equal when two matrices are equal, addition/subtraction of matrices, multiplication of a matrix by a scalar, multiplication of matrices, finding the inverse of a matrix and mixed operations within one problem. Each new section has a brief explanation of the process before the problem set. This could be used for guided instruction or group work.

Includes a variety of projectile motion problems, including projectiles at an angle. Handout includes a chart of horizontal and vertical motion for each problem, with time being the only variable common to both. Also included is a chart that may be made into an overhead or computer projection for full class discussion.

Given graphs of velocity vs time, students calculate the acceleration of an object at a given point or over a given time interval. Graphs are mostly linear but one curve is included.

Students cut apart triangles & squares and then match the sides to form a topaz shape. Students match expressions involving reciprocal identities and quotient identities. Transformations involve one or two steps.

Provided with graphs, students identify where the functions are constant, decreasing or increasing. Examples include graphs of all functions except trigonometric functions.

Students cut apart small squares to form a large square. To accomplish this, they must match polar coordinates to their equivalent rectangular coordinates. All polar coordinates are in radians and involve exact values.

This is an outline with all that students need to know to graph and write equations for Polynomial (Linear, Second Degree and Higher Degree), Rational, Radical and Transcendental (Trig and Log) Relations. Includes Conic Sections. I give this to my Calculus students at the beginning of the year and use parts of it for Pre-Calculus. My students have expressed that it is very useful, so I offer it here.

From graphs of pairs of linear and quadratic (vertical parabolas only) inequalities, students write equations of the two graphs. NOTE: You may have a pdf version which requires layering before you print. Be patient.

Given a complex circuit of resisters, with some given information, students fill in a chart for voltage, current and resistance across every resister in the circuit plus total values for each.

Students cut apart triangles and then match the sides to form a larger triangle. Students match an expression having four terms with varied configurations (including adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, raising to a power and involving parenthesis) to the correct answer using the order of operations. All answers involve whole numbers.

This is a series of compound areas of figures involving squares, rectangles and triangles.

Students interpret graphs of position-time and velocity-time to answer questions about the motion of an object. This is a good review for preparation prior to a test or a general review of the concepts involved.

Students follow a path around the sheet, starting with a trig expression. For each step in the path, students add, subtract, multiply or divide by a simple trig expression or the numeral 1. The final operation brings the result back to the original expression. Operations involve reciprocal, rational and Pythagorean identities. This activity would be best used at an early stage in learning these identities.

Given Physics relationships, students are asked to determine what happens to the final answer for specific changes in variables. For example, by what factor would the kinetic energy change if you reduced the velocity to 2/3 of its original value.

Students write linear inequalities for the graph of a system of two linear inequalities. The graphs are large so that the graphs are easily read with shading. To save paper, select print two pages on one in the pdf file. NOTE: You may have a pdf version which requires layering before you print. Be patient.

Students are asked to sketch graphs of described motion and explain motion of graphs. This reviews all concepts of motion involving displacement, velocity and acceleration and their graphical representations.

Students write words into blanks of statements involving vector concepts.

This is a comprehensive review of concepts involving properties of waves. It is a good review prior to a test.

Students examine power transmission in the context of solar panels. Students compare transmission with lower current with higher voltage and higher current with lower voltage. Problems and concept questions involving the Power Equation are presented afterward.

This has a series of questions involving concepts, calculations and ray diagrams involving optics.