Algebra 2 Honors Mathematical Modeling with Conics

Names:_______________________________ Due: Monday, April 30, 2012

Objective: To be able to graph and write equations of conics. Materials Needed: Digital camera, computer, GeoGebra software (a link to the download is on my webpage.) Instructions: At this point, you should be able to recognize and graph circles, ellipses and parabolas. You will have Wednesday and Friday in class to work on the following project. Do the following for TWO (of the three listed above) conic sections: 1) Find and photograph representations of the conic section. (Note: You MAY NOT use your cell phone as a camera for this project!) 2) Put your image into a GeoGebra file. (Instructions are on my webpage.) 3) Fit a conic section to your picture. a. First find relative information such as directrix, foci etc. b. Write an equation that will model a conic section to your photograph. c. Input the equation into GeoGebra. (Instructions are on my webpage.) How to hand in your project: Turn in printouts of your GeoGebra files to me at the start of class on Monday as well as any related work (such as the information found in part 3a.) Use a paper clip, do not staple your project. (One set per group.) Hand in the attached rubric for each group member with names on it. Email me your GeoGebra files saved as .png files. Instructions on how to save the images are on my webpage under Dr. Xs GeoGebra Instructions.

Have fun and good luck!

Name: _________________________________ Group Members: _________________________________

CATEGORY Mathematical Concepts

4
Explanation shows complete understanding of the mathematical concepts used to solve the problem(s).

3
Explanation shows substantial understanding of the mathematical concepts used to solve the problem(s).

2
Explanation shows some understanding of the mathematical concepts needed to solve the problem(s).

1
Explanation shows very limited understanding of the underlying concepts needed to solve the problem(s) OR is not written.

Neatness and Organization

The work is presented in a neat, clear, organized fashion that is easy to read.

The work is presented in a neat and organized fashion that is usually easy to read.

The work is presented in an organized fashion but may be hard to read at times.

The work appears sloppy and unorganized. It is hard to know what information goes together.

Working with Others

Student was an engaged partner, listening to suggestions of others and working cooperatively throughout lesson.

Student was an engaged partner but had trouble listening to others and/or working cooperatively.

Student cooperated with others, but needed prompting to stay on-task.

Student did not work effectively with others.

Graph and Photo (1)

Graph and photo is clear and greatly add to the reader's understanding of the procedure(s). All key components are clearly labeled.

Graph and photo is are clear and easy to understand. Most key components are clearly labeled.

Graph and photo is somewhat difficult to understand. Some key components are labeled.

Graph and photo is difficult to understand or are not used. Few key components are labeled.

Explanation and Key Components (1)

Explanation is detailed and clear. All key components are clearly listed.

Explanation is clear. Some key components are missing.

Explanation is a little difficult to understand, but includes critical components. Multiple key components are missing.

Explanation is difficult to understand and is missing several components OR was not included.

Graph and Photo (2)

Graph and photo is clear and greatly add to the reader's understanding of the procedure(s). All key components are clearly labeled.

Graph and photo is are clear and easy to understand. Most key components are clearly labeled.

Graph and photo is somewhat difficult to understand. Some key components are labeled.

Graph and photo is difficult to understand or are not used. Few key components are labeled.

Explanation and Key Components (2)

Explanation is detailed and clear. All key components are clearly listed.

Explanation is clear. Some key components are missing.

Explanation is a little difficult to understand, but includes critical components. Multiple key components are missing.

Explanation is difficult to understand and is missing several components OR was not included.