Project: Write a PEMDAS story
This is a final assessment for Accentuating the Negative, and in particular, Order of Operations. It will count as a test grade.
Due Friday, May 22, 2009
Directions for writing your PEMDAS story
1. Create an expression using integers. Use the following elements: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division, at least one set of parentheses, at least one exponent (to the second or third power).
2. Simplify your expression. Show in order all the steps you used to simplify.
3. Write your own PEMDAS story. Your story must follow the order of operations as it applies to your expression. You will translate each operation into a real-world situation, including the result of the operation in your story.
4. Type and mount the story on paper provided, and illustrate. Give your story an appropriate title.
5. Be creative and original.
Due Dates for your PEMDAS Story
Monday, May 4: An original expression, simplified, with all work shown. Expressions will be returned by Wednesday. Corrections are due by Friday.
Wednesday, May 13th: 1st draft of your PEMDAS story with title Drafts will be returned with comments on Friday, May 15th.
Friday, May 22nd: Final project (must include first draft with comments and must address any notes and comments), mounted and illustrated.
(***An example of a real-world situation for an exponent: Let's say I have 23, a translation could be as follows: two geese started flying south; after the first mile they found that their flock had doubled. By the second mile, the new flock of four had doubled. Now they were a flock of eight. Note that the flock is doubling because the base is 2. If the base were 3, the flock would be tripling.)
ASSESSMENT OUTLINE FOR FINAL DRAFT INCLUDES (but is not limited to):
Expression contains all the necessary elements, including proper placement of parentheses. 10 pts
Simplifying the expression - clear, organized presentation of steps 30 pts
The story - follows expression in a clear manner, has a beginning, middle and end. 30 pts
The final story submitted addresses any comments in the rough draft and is free of mathematical errors. It is neatly typed in at least 12pt font, and is free of spelling errors. It has a title, is mounted on paper and illustrated. Your name and section appear after the title. 30 pts total.
Effort - task accomplished and handed in on time, general appearance of work, difficulty of expression, and development of story. These points are included in the point counts above.
A sample PEMDAS Story (This is a basic story from a basic expression)
A PEMDAS Story about (4 + 2) * 2 / 4
by Samuel Student, Period C (4 + 2) * 2 / 4
6*2 / 4
12 / 4
3
Four friends were playing ball in the park. They were having a great day because it was the weekend. Later, two more of their friends from their neighborhood joined them. Now there were six friends in the park.
Another group of six kids saw the group of six playing and asked if they could join to make two teams. Everyone agreed and now there were twice as many people playing; this made the game more competitive. Everyone was out to win. The group stayed in the park long after the game was over, just talking about their favorite topics.
As it was getting later, everyone was tired and hungry. When they were ready to go home, the large group of 12 friends divided into 4 groups. Each group had the same number of kids. This way, 4 groups of 3 kids walked each other home.