Group Activity Mathematical Investigation
Group Activity Mathematical Investigation
Activity Overview:
Students will explore various mathematical concepts as they
naturally occur in the environment. This activity encourages
observation, research, analysis, and presentation skills. The
groups will investigate different phenomena, such as Fibonacci
sequences in flowers, symmetry in leaves, fractals in
snowflakes, and tessellations in honeycombs.
Objectives:
• To identify and describe mathematical patterns and
principles found in nature.
• To enhance observational skills and critical thinking.
• To improve collaboration and communication skills
through group work and presentations.
Materials Needed:
• Notebooks or digital devices for recording observations and
research
• Access to the internet for research
• Cameras or smartphones for taking photos (optional)
• Measuring tools (rulers, protractors, etc.)
Steps:
1. Group Formation:
2. Topic Selection: Assign each group a specific topic or let
them choose from a list, such as:
o Fibonacci sequences in flowers and plants
spots on leopards)
3. Research and Observation: Each group will research their
topic and observe real-life examples. They should record
their findings with descriptions, photos, and sketches.
4. Analysis: Students will analyze their observations to
explain the mathematical principles involved.
5. Presentation Preparation: Groups will prepare a
presentation (poster, PowerPoint, video, etc.) to share their
findings with the class.
6. Presentation: Each group will present their project to the
class, explaining the mathematics behind their topic and
how it is evidenced in nature. June 19, 2024
Rubrics:
1. Research and Observation (30 points)
• Depth of Research (15 points): Demonstrates thorough
research and understanding of the topic.
o Excellent: 15 points - Extensive and detailed research
sources.
o Needs Improvement: 6 points - Limited research with
minimal sources.
• Quality of Observations (15 points): Accurate and
detailed observations with clear evidence (photos, sketches,
descriptions).
o Excellent: 15 points - Observations are detailed,
documented.
o Satisfactory: 9 points - Observations are basic but
accurate.
o Needs Improvement: 6 points - Observations are
explanation.
o Good: 12 points - Clear and accurate explanation.
inaccurate explanation.
• Connection to Nature (15 points): Strong and clear
connection between observations and mathematical
concepts.
o Excellent: 15 points - Strong, clear, and detailed
connections.
o Good: 12 points - Clear and well-explained
connections.
o Satisfactory: 9 points - Basic but evident connections.
connections.
3. Presentation (40 points)
• Organization and Clarity (10 points): Well-organized
and clear presentation.
o Excellent: 10 points - Highly organized, logical flow,
unclear.
• Visual Aids (10 points): Effective use of visual aids to
enhance the presentation.
o Excellent: 10 points - Visual aids are highly effective
communication.
o Good: 8 points - Engaging and clear communication.
unclear communication.
• Teamwork (10 points): Effective collaboration and equal
participation.
o Excellent: 10 points - Highly effective collaboration
participation.
o Satisfactory: 6 points - Generally effective
and participation.
Total Points: 100
Presentation will be on June 19, 2024