
Inquiry Framework
Question Framework
Driving Question
The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we design a cost-effective and functional tiny house using multi-step equations and scale models to meet specific needs and environmental considerations?Essential Questions
Supporting questions that break down major concepts.- How do you solve multi-step equations?
- How do you calculate area, perimeter, and volume?
- How do you create a scale model?
- What are the cost factors in building a tiny house?
Standards & Learning Goals
Learning Goals
By the end of this project, students will be able to:- Students will be able to solve multi-step equations to determine dimensions and costs.
- Students will apply geometric formulas to calculate area, perimeter, and volume for their tiny house designs.
- Students will create accurate scale models of their tiny house designs.
- Students will analyze and manage cost factors within a set budget.
- Students will design a tiny house that meets specific needs and environmental considerations.
Common Core Standards
Entry Events
Events that will be used to introduce the project to studentsThe Housing Crisis Challenge
A local news story highlights a family struggling with housing affordability. The story ends with a challenge: Can students design a tiny house that solves the family's needs within a strict budget, using their math skills? This event connects math to a real-world social issue, sparking empathy and a desire to find practical solutions.Portfolio Activities
Portfolio Activities
These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.Equation解锁 (Equation Unlock)
Students will practice solving multi-step equations with a focus on isolating variables. They will work through a series of problems that gradually increase in complexity.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 worksheet with completed multi-step equation problems, demonstrating clear steps for solving each equation.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses 8.EE.C.7b by focusing on the foundational skill of solving multi-step equations, which is crucial for determining the dimensions of the tiny house components.Measure Masters
Students will apply their equation-solving skills to calculate the area, perimeter, and volume of various geometric shapes. This activity will include real-world examples to illustrate the practical application of these calculations.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 set of solved problems demonstrating the calculation of area, perimeter, and volume for various shapes, along with explanations of the formulas used.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsBuilds on 8.EE.C.7b by applying the skill of solving multi-step equations to calculate the area, perimeter, and volume of different shapes, preparing them for the design phase.Scaling Up (or Down!)
Students will learn about scale models and how to calculate dimensions using scale factors. They will practice converting between real-world measurements and scale model measurements.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 calculations converting real-world dimensions to scale model dimensions, along with a written explanation of the scale factor used.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsReinforces 8.EE.C.7b and connects it to design by having students calculate the dimensions of tiny house components based on scale factors, ensuring they can apply their skills to the project.Budget Boss
Students will research the cost of different building materials and calculate the total cost of their tiny house design. This activity will include budget constraints and require students to make informed decisions about material choices.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 detailed cost estimate for their tiny house design, including a list of materials, their individual costs, and the total project cost, all within a specified budget.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsApplies 8.EE.C.7b in a practical context by having students calculate the cost of materials for their tiny house, incorporating budget constraints and problem-solving skills.Rubric & Reflection
Portfolio Rubric
Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolioEquation Unlock Rubric
Multi-Step Equation Proficiency
Focuses on the student's ability to accurately solve multi-step equations and clearly demonstrate their problem-solving process.Equation Solving Accuracy
Accuracy of solutions and demonstration of steps in solving multi-step equations.
Exemplary
4 PointsThe worksheet shows correct solutions with clearly explained steps, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of solving multi-step equations. The student innovatively solves complex equations and provides insightful justifications for each step.
Proficient
3 PointsThe worksheet shows correct solutions with clearly explained steps, demonstrating a thorough understanding of solving multi-step equations. The student effectively solves equations and justifies each step.
Developing
2 PointsThe worksheet shows some correct solutions, but the steps are not always clear or complete, indicating an emerging understanding of solving multi-step equations. The student attempts to solve equations and provides some justification for the steps.
Beginning
1 PointsThe worksheet shows incorrect solutions and lacks clear steps, indicating a beginning understanding of solving multi-step equations. The student struggles to solve equations and provide justification for the steps.