Math Novel: A Story of Numbers and Equations

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Math Novel: A Story of Numbers and Equations

Grade 10EnglishMath10 days

In this project, 10th-grade students will write a math novel, blending mathematical concepts with creative writing. Students will integrate math principles into character development and plot progression, crafting a compelling narrative that makes complex ideas accessible and engaging. The project involves brainstorming math concepts, creating mathematically-influenced characters, plotting a math-driven story, drafting, revising, and peer-reviewing the novel to ensure mathematical accuracy and narrative quality, culminating in a final submission.

Math NovelCreative WritingMathematical ConceptsCharacter DevelopmentPlot ProgressionProblem-SolvingPeer Review

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Inquiry Framework

Question Framework

Driving Question

The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we craft a compelling narrative that uses mathematical concepts to drive the plot and deepen character development, making complex ideas accessible and engaging for readers?

Essential Questions

Supporting questions that break down major concepts.

How can math concepts be integrated into a fictional narrative in a meaningful way?
How can character development and plot be used to illustrate mathematical principles?
How can mathematical problems be presented in an engaging and accessible way for a reader?

Standards & Learning Goals

Learning Goals

By the end of this project, students will be able to:

Students will demonstrate their understanding of mathematical concepts by incorporating them into a fictional narrative.
Students will improve their creative writing skills by crafting a compelling story with well-developed characters and plot.
Students will learn to integrate mathematical principles into character development and plot progression.
Students will enhance their problem-solving abilities by creating mathematical problems within the narrative that are engaging and accessible to readers.

Entry Events

Events that will be used to introduce the project to students

Reality Glitch

The students will be presented with a short video clip of a seemingly normal scene that suddenly glitches, revealing mathematical anomalies (e.g., impossible geometry, irrational numbers manifesting physically). Students must then explore this 'glitch' through a fictional narrative, using mathematical principles to explain and resolve the disruption in reality.

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Portfolio Activities

These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.

Activity 1

Math Concept Brainstorm

Students brainstorm a list of mathematical concepts that could be woven into a fictional narrative.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.

1. Generate a list of at least 10 mathematical concepts (e.g., algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, number theory).

2. For each concept, briefly describe how it works and where it might appear in a story.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed list of mathematical concepts with potential narrative applications.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsDemonstrates understanding of mathematical concepts by identifying their potential use in a fictional narrative.

Activity 2

Character Creation with a Twist

Students develop characters whose traits or backstories are mathematically influenced.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.

1. Create three character profiles, each influenced by a different mathematical concept (e.g., a character who makes decisions based on probability, a character whose life is governed by geometric patterns, a character who solves crimes using statistical analysis).

2. Detail each character's personality, backstory, and role in the story, emphasizing the mathematical influence.

3. Write a short scene showcasing how one of your characters interacts with the mathematical concept impacting their life.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityThree character profiles with mathematically influenced traits and a scene demonstrating one character's interaction with a mathematical concept.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsIntegrates mathematical principles into character development.

Activity 3

Plotting the Math-Driven Story

Students outline a plot that progresses through mathematical problems and solutions.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.

1. Develop a plot outline with a clear beginning, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

2. Incorporate at least three mathematical problems into the plot that the characters must solve to progress the story.

3. Outline how each problem is presented, how the characters attempt to solve it, and the consequences of their success or failure.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed plot outline with embedded mathematical problems and solutions.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsIntegrates mathematical principles into plot progression and enhances problem-solving abilities.

Activity 4

Drafting the Mathematical Novel (Part 2)

Students continue writing their novel, focusing on rising action, character development, and problem-solving.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.

1. Write chapters four through six of your novel.

2. Develop the rising action by escalating the stakes and challenges related to the mathematical problems.

3. Further develop your characters and their relationships, showing how they contribute to solving the problems.

4. Present and attempt to solve the second mathematical problem within the narrative.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityChapters four through six of the mathematical novel.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsEnhances problem-solving abilities by creating mathematical problems within the narrative and integrates mathematical principles into character development.

Activity 5

Drafting the Mathematical Novel (Part 3)

Students complete the drafting of their novel, focusing on climax, resolution, and tying up any loose ends.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.

1. Write the final chapters of your novel (chapters seven to end).

2. Craft a compelling climax where the characters confront the final mathematical challenge.

3. Provide a satisfying resolution that ties up all loose ends and demonstrates the characters' growth.

4. Ensure the final mathematical problem is solved in a way that is both logical and engaging for the reader.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityThe completed draft of the mathematical novel.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsImproves creative writing skills and integrates mathematical principles into the resolution of the narrative.

Activity 6

Mathematical Accuracy Check

Students will review their novel to ensure all mathematical elements are accurate and clearly explained.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.

1. Review all instances of mathematical concepts and problems in your novel.

2. Verify the accuracy of each mathematical element, ensuring the solutions are correct and the explanations are clear.

3. Revise any sections where the math is unclear or inaccurate.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA novel with verified mathematical accuracy.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsDemonstrates understanding of mathematical concepts by ensuring their correct application in the novel.

Activity 7

Peer Review & Feedback

Students exchange novels with a partner for peer review, focusing on both the narrative and mathematical aspects.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.

1. Exchange your novel with a partner.

2. Read your partner's novel, providing feedback on the clarity of the narrative, the engagement of the characters, and the accuracy of the mathematical concepts.

3. Provide constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement in both the writing and the math.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA peer-reviewed novel with constructive feedback.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsEnhances creative writing skills through peer feedback and ensures mathematical concepts are presented engagingly and accessibly.

Activity 8

Revision & Editing

Students revise and edit their novels based on peer feedback and self-reflection.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.

1. Review the feedback received from your peer review.

2. Revise your novel based on the feedback, addressing any issues with clarity, accuracy, or engagement.

3. Edit your novel for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA revised and edited mathematical novel.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsImproves creative writing skills by refining the narrative based on feedback and self-reflection.

Activity 9

Final Novel Submission

Students submit their final, polished mathematical novel.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.

1. Ensure all revisions and edits have been completed.

2. Format your novel in a professional and readable manner.

3. Submit your final novel for assessment.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA complete, polished mathematical novel ready for evaluation.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsDemonstrates understanding of mathematical concepts, creative writing skills, and problem-solving abilities through the creation of a compelling and accurate novel.

Activity 10

Drafting the Mathematical Novel (Part 1)

Students begin writing the first few chapters of their novel, focusing on setting the scene and introducing the characters and initial mathematical problem.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.

1. Write the first three chapters of your novel.

2. Focus on introducing the setting, characters, and the first mathematical problem the characters will face.

3. Ensure the writing style is engaging and accessible for the reader.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityThe first three chapters of the mathematical novel.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsImproves creative writing skills by crafting a compelling story and integrates mathematical problems engagingly.

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Rubric & Reflection

Portfolio Rubric

Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolio

Mathematical Novel Rubric

Category 1

Mathematical Accuracy

Assesses the correctness and clarity of the mathematical concepts and problems presented in the novel.

Criterion 1

Accuracy of Mathematical Concepts

Evaluates the correctness and appropriate application of mathematical principles within the narrative.

Exemplary

4 Points

Demonstrates a flawless understanding of mathematical concepts, applying them accurately and innovatively throughout the narrative.

Proficient

3 Points

Demonstrates a solid understanding of mathematical concepts, applying them correctly in most instances within the narrative.

Developing

2 Points

Shows an emerging understanding of mathematical concepts, but contains some inaccuracies or inconsistencies in their application.

Beginning

1 Points

Demonstrates a limited understanding of mathematical concepts, with frequent inaccuracies or misapplications within the narrative.

Criterion 2

Clarity of Explanations

Evaluates how clearly the mathematical concepts and problem-solving processes are explained to the reader.

Exemplary

4 Points

Explains mathematical concepts with exceptional clarity, making them easily understandable and engaging for the reader.

Proficient

3 Points

Explains mathematical concepts clearly and understandably for the reader.

Developing

2 Points

Explains mathematical concepts with some clarity, but may require additional effort from the reader to fully understand.

Beginning

1 Points

Struggles to explain mathematical concepts clearly, leaving the reader confused or unable to follow the logic.

Category 2

Narrative Creativity & Engagement

Assesses the quality of the narrative, including character development, plot progression, and overall engagement.

Criterion 1

Character Development

Evaluates the depth and believability of the characters, and how mathematical concepts influence their traits or decisions.

Exemplary

4 Points

Characters are exceptionally well-developed, believable, and their interactions with mathematical concepts are seamlessly integrated and compelling.

Proficient

3 Points

Characters are well-developed and their interactions with mathematical concepts are clearly presented.

Developing

2 Points

Characters are somewhat developed, but their interactions with mathematical concepts may feel forced or underdeveloped.

Beginning

1 Points

Characters are underdeveloped and their interactions with mathematical concepts are minimal or unclear.

Criterion 2

Plot Progression

Evaluates how effectively the plot incorporates mathematical problems and solutions to drive the story forward.

Exemplary

4 Points

Plot is expertly crafted, with mathematical problems seamlessly integrated to create compelling conflicts and resolutions.

Proficient

3 Points

Plot is well-structured and incorporates mathematical problems effectively to progress the story.

Developing

2 Points

Plot shows potential, but the integration of mathematical problems may feel disjointed or underdeveloped.

Beginning

1 Points

Plot is weak and the integration of mathematical problems is minimal or confusing.

Criterion 3

Reader Engagement

Evaluates how captivating the novel is for the reader.

Exemplary

4 Points

The narrative is exceptionally captivating, keeping the reader engrossed from beginning to end. Mathematical elements enhance, rather than detract from, the overall reading experience.

Proficient

3 Points

The narrative is engaging and maintains the reader's interest throughout. Mathematical elements are appropriately balanced within the story.

Developing

2 Points

The narrative has moments of engagement, but may lose the reader's interest at times. The integration of mathematical elements may occasionally feel forced or disruptive.

Beginning

1 Points

The narrative fails to engage the reader, and the mathematical elements often detract from the story's flow and enjoyment.

Category 3

Writing Quality & Mechanics

Assesses the clarity, style, and correctness of the writing.

Criterion 1

Clarity and Style

Evaluates the effectiveness of the writing in conveying the story and mathematical concepts clearly and engagingly.

Exemplary

4 Points

Writing is exceptionally clear, concise, and engaging, enhancing the overall impact of the story and mathematical concepts.

Proficient

3 Points

Writing is clear, concise, and effectively conveys the story and mathematical concepts.

Developing

2 Points

Writing is generally clear, but may occasionally be confusing or lack engagement.

Beginning

1 Points

Writing is unclear, confusing, and detracts from the story and mathematical concepts.

Criterion 2

Grammar, Spelling, and Punctuation

Evaluates the correctness of grammar, spelling, and punctuation in the novel.

Exemplary

4 Points

The novel is free of grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors.

Proficient

3 Points

The novel contains minimal grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors that do not detract from the overall reading experience.

Developing

2 Points

The novel contains several grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors that occasionally detract from the reading experience.

Beginning

1 Points

The novel contains numerous grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors that significantly detract from the reading experience.

Reflection Prompts

End-of-project reflection questions to get students to think about their learning

Question 1

How did you integrate mathematical concepts into your fictional narrative in a meaningful way? Provide specific examples from your novel.

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Question 2

In what ways did character development and plot enhance the illustration of mathematical principles in your novel?

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Question 3

How did you ensure that the mathematical problems presented in your novel were engaging and accessible to readers?

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Question 4

To what extent do you feel you demonstrated your understanding of mathematical concepts through your novel?

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Question 5

What was the most challenging aspect of creating a mathematical novel, and how did you overcome it?

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Question 6

If you were to write another mathematical novel, what would you do differently based on what you learned in this project?

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