Disciplines/Subjects: Mathematics, Environmental Science, Data Analysis
Key Themes: Periodic Patterns, Trigonometric Functions, Real-World Applications of Mathematical Modeling
In this project, learners are encouraged to choose a periodic phenomenon of personal interest to investigate, such as seasonal weather patterns, lunar cycles, biorhythms, economic cycles, or even traffic patterns. This sample work explores the temperature rhythms of cities with varying distances from the sea, using trigonometric functions (sin and cos) to model and analyze the temperature changes over time. By applying mathematical principles, learners identify patterns, construct equations to represent periodic behaviors, and predict future trends. The project demonstrates the power of trigonometry in understanding and forecasting periodic phenomena across different domains.
Habits of mind: Curiosity, Continuous Learning, Strive for Excellence
Transferable skills: Organizing & Representing Information, Identifying Patterns and Relationships, Interpreting Data/Information to Make Valid Claims
Content Knowledge:
Understanding the components of periodic functions (e.g., period, amplitude, midline, phase shift).
Applying trigonometric functions to model cyclical or repeating behaviors.
Researching and analyzing data from reliable sources or conducting independent investigations.
Recognizing the limitations of mathematical models and exploring ways to improve them.