Sharon's Problem Solving

The resource includes practice problems, rubrics, answer keys, error analysis sheets, and a note to students. The resource is set up so that students can reflect on their own work using the Answer Keys and Rubric, then analyze their errors in reasoning using the Error Analysis Sheets. The Note to Students explains the process and includes links to explanations for most topics. I have used resources like this one for my own AP Calculus classes with excellent results since 1998. My students hi

Complete the Square Activities: Practice the Process includes illustrated directions to use Algebra Tiles for equations that are perfect squares and those that are not. Practice problems are included along with two process related activities. A challenge problem requires students to complete the square for the general case. Answer keys are included for all problems and activities.

The collection includes a pattern/function exploration that provides an introduction to piece-wise defined functions and sequences. Additional problems ask students to write piecewise functions from graphs. Other topics included are discrete and continuous data. Graphing calculator instructions for sequences are included.

The Simplifying Rational Expressions Problem gives students an opportunity to find the reduced form of a rational expression. Students can use problem solving techniques to find the solutions to the accompanying questions. The problem includes a rubric and answer key. The matching activity that asks students to find the factors and simplified form of the expressions. The problem can be used as a formative assessment, activity, or homework. It can be completed cooperatively or independently. The

The Algebra through Geometry Problems ask students to investigate two challenging geometric pattern problems by building quadratic and cubic equations. Students will derive the equations after going through a few guided steps. The rubrics and answer keys can be used by the students and/or teacher. There are three supporting activities that compliment the challenge problems. Topics covered in the problems and activities: Analyze patternsMake charts and tablesFind quadratic equationsUse the cubic