Timothy J. Chiaverini
My goal for this unit is to build the knowledge base of today's high school student. I want to motivate students to learn about the challenges facing our planet. Specifically, at the conclusion of the unit, I want students to be able to discuss global warming and climate change from an informed perspective. Students should be able to articulate what they have learned in scientific and mathematical terms.
Since one primary role for educators of all disciplines is to provide our students with the ability to filter and analyze information gleaned from a multitude of sources, this unit aims to provide students with healthy skepticism and keen radar for propagandized information. Finally, students should relate the concepts and facts presented in the classroom to the real world. Students must be aware of the significance of the subject matter provided in this unit and its implications for their future career opportunities and the future of the planet.
Overall Scientific Objectives:
Students will be able to:
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1.
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Define density and buoyancy.
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2.
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Explain what makes objects and substances sink or float.
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3.
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Describe in detail the relationship between mass, volume, density and buoyant force.
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4.
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Use knowledge of density and buoyancy to explain what happens to the volume of certain gases and liquids when temperature changes.
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5.
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Relate the processes of convection and thermal expansion to the search for renewable energy sources that reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
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Overall Mathematical Objectives:
Students will be able to:
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1.
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Use mathematical models to make predictions about real-world phenomena.
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2.
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Construct graphs of real-world data and analyze data using graphs.
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3.
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Find the equation of a line in slope intercept form and describe the meaning of the slope and y-intercept.
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4.
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Compare and order numbers and use proportional reasoning to solve problems.
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5.
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Construct appropriate graphical and/or symbolic mathematical models to fit real world data.
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6.
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Calculate buoyant force, mass, volume, density and temperature using symbolic and graphical mathematical models.
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7.
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Find the equation of a quadratic function given its tabular and/or graphical model.
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