Algebra Blog Prompt: Make your own RTD System

I have used this prompt for my kiddos' math blogs for two whole years and I really like it. They are to research a create their own RTD system word problem. This works really well as a partner project in which they edit a google slides file together. We are a 1:1 laptop school, so I am able to give them bits of time during class for partners to collaborate, though I do start the assignment with nearly an entire class period dedicated to researching and writing.

Learning to work backwards to write a math problem is challenging for my students. During day 1 I am circulating, hovering really, questioning their work before they publish.

Samples:

Carly    Brigid    Bryce

Here is the prompt:

For this Blog post, you and a partner will research and create an RTD problem that requires a system to solve. You may choose to do a problem with wind/current speed, round-trip, total distance or one person catching up with the other. Look at your chapter 7 packet for inspiration. You may use a calculator for this assignment.

Major Hint: Start with realistic distances and speeds. Find the times algebraically that go with the distance and speeds you started with. Be sure to watch your units!

Requirements:

• 1 - 2 sentence introduction of the assignment on your blog, include a link to your partner’s blog.
• Use realistic speeds and distances. Use the internet to research how fast your subjects (runners, swimmers, planes, cars, trains, etc) actually travel. Use the names of actual places and the actual distances between places.
• Include a map with route highlighted (if the distance isn’t given in the problem, make sure your map doesn’t reveal it). Use google maps or mapquest or something similar.
• Include at least two copyright friendly images that enhance the problem (related to the subject or the place)
• Include the solution
• Define variables with units
• RTD Chart
• System and solution typed with an equation editor like daum
• Answer with sentence

Organize all elements in an embedded google presentation:

Slide 1: Your problem

Slide 2: Your map and 2 related images

Slide 3: Your solution (rtd chart, variables defined, solved system, answer with sentence)

To embed the presentation...

• Share, change from private to anyone at Harvard Westlake with Link
• File, publish to web, select size, copy embed code, paste to HTML view on blogger