Ferris Wheel Function Rules
Objective: SWBAT write algebraic functions to model the height of a rider on a Ferris Wheel over time.
Big Idea: How can we complete the multiple representations of this relationship? Is there a function rule for this situation? Students will write and test function rules using online graphing tools.
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Warm-Up
I designed today's Find Ferris Wheel Functions Warm-Up to give my students a good chance to consider functions describing the motion of a Ferris wheel using multiple representations. One strategy I used in this worksheet was to keep some problem formats the same so that students can develop confidence with particular problems. Of course, I also vary other problem formats so that students don’t just memorize a single algorithm (spurred on by repetition).
I will make use of graphing technology in this lesson, specifically the trigonometric features of desmos. I will make sure my students understand how to use them. The most important thing they need is to be able to change the axes to “degree mode” and to change the scale of the axes so that they can see what is going on in the graphs. I want my students to check their graphs and tables electronically.
Today's lesson will be difficult for some of my students. When I come across a student who is struggling, I will be sure to tell them, “It’s okay, we are still in the process of figuring this concept out.”
