"Cruisin' with Logic"
GOALS:
1. Complete the math handout to practice logical thinking.
2. Work effectively and cooperatively with a partner.
RESOURCES:
1. Math handout (example problem and homework problems)
LESSON ADAPTED FROM:
Mrs. Muhs, St. Norbert College Math Professor
TIME:
This lesson will require between 1 hour, 25 minutes and 1 hour, 50 minutes. (Part 1 [1 hour, 5 minutes to 1 hour,20 minutes]; Part 2 [20 minutes to 30 minutes].)
PROCEDURE:
Introduction:
Logical thinking is an important NCTM math standard that adolescents need to practice regularly. This lesson introduces the process of elimination through logical thinking in mathematics.
Part 1:
Step 1- Introduce class to logical thinking math problems by modeling an example problem to them; (see the handout at the end of lesson for both directions and an example problem to use in class).
Step 2- Group students into pairs and distribute the math handout.
Step 3- In partner form, students are to complete and hand in the math handout. Partners need to construct a chart to figure out answers and then explain the logical thinking process that they used to solve the problem.
Part 2:
Step 4- Discuss correct answers and how they were found with the class after sheets have been corrected and handed back. Ask for volunteers to work out problems on the board/overhead to show peers how they logically thought out and solved the problem. Answer any logic questions as necessary.
ASSESSMENT:
1. Each set of partners must complete and hand in the math logics handout. (Criteria for success=X number of math logic problems answered correctly. Reasonable criteria %= 80% of logic problems answered correctly.)
2. Teacher and students will make assessment of partner work. (Criteria for success= See Teacher and Student Rubrics for Partner Work.)
CURRICULAR STRANDS AND MAJOR CONCEPTS:
1. Math- Logical thinking throughout entire lesson.
2. Language Arts- Reading and critical thinking while completing logical thinking handout.
POSSIBLE EXTENSIONS:
1. Have students make up their own logical thinking problems similar to the ones on the handout.