
Graph Art: Crafting Pictures with Equations
Inquiry Framework
Question Framework
Driving Question
The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we use various mathematical equations and graph properties to design a visually appealing picture, and what does this reveal about the connection between technical mathematical concepts and creative artistic expression?Essential Questions
Supporting questions that break down major concepts.- How can different types of mathematical equations, such as linear, quadratic, and exponential, be used to create visual representations?
- What are the properties of different types of graphs and how do these properties affect the overall picture design?
- How can we use our understanding of geometric transformations to manipulate equations for artistic purposes?
- In what ways do the principles of symmetry and asymmetry apply to graph-based design?
- What are the connections between mathematical analysis and creative expression through graphing?
Standards & Learning Goals
Learning Goals
By the end of this project, students will be able to:- Students will understand how to graph various types of equations, such as linear, quadratic, and exponential, to create a cohesive picture.
- Students will develop skills in manipulating equations to achieve specific visual effects, incorporating geometric transformations.
- Students will analyze the impact of different graph properties, such as symmetry and asymmetry, on artistic design.
- Students will connect mathematical concepts with artistic expression, enhancing their creativity through technical applications.
Common Core Standards for Mathematics
Entry Events
Events that will be used to introduce the project to studentsMath in Motion Art Gala
Invite students to an art exhibition where all the artworks are created using mathematical equations and graphs. Each piece challenges the students to determine the equations that represent the artistic curves, inviting curiosity about how math can transform into visual art.Portfolio Activities
Portfolio Activities
These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.Equation Exploration Adventure
In this introductory activity, students will explore different mathematical equations such as linear, quadratic, and exponential. They will learn how each type of equation is graphically represented and understand their basic properties.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA portfolio of simple graph sketches for each equation type, annotated with their properties.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSF.IF.C.7 - Graph functions expressed symbolically.Geometric Transformation Wizards
Students will use geometric transformations to manipulate equations, allowing them to see how shifts, reflections, and stretches affect the graph visually.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA series of graphs showcasing transformed equations, with notes on the transformations applied.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSF.BF.A.1 - Write a function that defines relationships through transformation.Graph Design Masterpieces
In the culminating activity, students synthesize their understanding of graph equations and transformations to create a unique piece of visual art using a variety of equations.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA completed graph-based artistic piece demonstrating mastery of equations and transformations.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSF.IF.C.7, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSF.BF.A.1, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSF.LE.A.2 - Combining expression, symmetry, and transformation to create art.Rubric & Reflection
Portfolio Rubric
Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolioGraphing and Art Design Rubric
Graph Interpretation and Application
Evaluation of students' understanding and application of various graph types such as linear, quadratic, and exponential equations.Equation Graphing
Ability to graph different mathematical equations precisely and identify their key features such as slope and intercepts for linear equations, and vertex and axis of symmetry for quadratic equations.
Exemplary
4 PointsGraphs all equation types with precision, clearly annotating all key features and demonstrating a deep understanding of graph properties.
Proficient
3 PointsAccurately graphs most equation types and annotates key features, with a solid understanding of graph properties.
Developing
2 PointsGraphs some equations correctly, but annotations and understanding of key features are incomplete or partially inaccurate.
Beginning
1 PointsStruggles to graph equations correctly and lacks clear annotations or understanding of graph properties.
Transformation Application
Effectively applies geometric transformations such as translations, reflections, and dilations to mathematical equations for altering graph shapes.
Exemplary
4 PointsApplies transformations with creativity and precision, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of their effects on graph shapes.
Proficient
3 PointsProperly applies basic transformations, showing clear understanding of their effects on graph shapes.
Developing
2 PointsDemonstrates inconsistent application of transformations, with partial understanding of their visual effects.
Beginning
1 PointsStruggles to apply transformations, with minimal understanding of their impact on graph shapes.
Artistic Design Integration
Assessment of students' ability to integrate mathematical concepts creatively to produce a cohesive and visually appealing artwork.Creative Synthesis
Synthesizes multiple equation types and transformations to create a unified and aesthetically pleasing design.
Exemplary
4 PointsSeamlessly integrates multiple equations and transformations, creating a visually striking and coherent artwork.
Proficient
3 PointsSuccessfully combines equations and transformations into a cohesive design, with strong visual appeal.
Developing
2 PointsCombines some equations and transformations, but design lacks coherence or visual impact.
Beginning
1 PointsStruggles to integrate equations or transformations effectively, resulting in a disjointed or unclear design.
Artistic Creativity
The extent to which the artwork demonstrates original thought and creativity in the use of mathematical equations and transformations.
Exemplary
4 PointsDemonstrates exceptional creativity and originality, using mathematical concepts to deliver a unique and inspiring artwork.
Proficient
3 PointsShows solid creativity, effectively using mathematical concepts to create interesting visual elements.
Developing
2 PointsDisplays basic creativity, with some original use of mathematical concepts in the design.
Beginning
1 PointsShows limited creativity or originality in using mathematical concepts within the artwork.