MATHEMATICS/

NUMERACY

Moments in Mathematics

Junior School

To wrap up the topic of linear relations, our Year 9 STEM students used their acquired knowledge to create their names or initials by graphing a series of lines. This involved students carefully drawing letters on a set of axes, determining the equation of each line used to form the letters, and then extending their knowledge by identifying the domain or range of each equation to indicate the start and end points of each line (see images). Some students also took it upon themselves to include non-linear elements in their submissions, enjoying the challenge of problem-solving which function would best represent those elements.

Senior School

As a continuation of the Roller Coaster Design task, our Year 10 Enrichment students had the opportunity to use technology – the new Ti-Nspire calculator – to check the accuracy of their designs by graphing the algebraic equations (see images), and using the domain restrictions to confirm whether riders would have a smooth ride or run the risk of falling out! It proved to be a fun activity and gave students the opportunity to reflect on their solutions, and be resourceful to make any necessary corrections if the riders were in danger.

Family Fun

How did you go with the riddles from last time? The answers were “3”, and “0 because roosters don’t lay eggs”! See if you can solve these brain teasers before the answers are revealed in the next edition of Highlights.

- A cell phone and phone case cost $110 in total. The cell phone costs $100 more than the phone case. How much was the cell phone?

- Friday, Jason and Jeff went to the store to buy some bread. The total of $12 was divided equally among the friends. Jason paid $4 and Jeff paid $4 as well. Who paid the other $4?