The ability to explain information that is presented in mathematical form is crucial. I didn’t realize how helpful it is to have a strong understanding of mathematical data was until I was able to apply it this year. This strong understanding is what allows you to use the data to your advantage. Here are some examples where I display my ability to explain mathematical information.
The first example is our map and scale reasoning assignment. In this assignment we needed to measure a map with a ruler and convert this small scale in to the actual distance between the two places measured. We were given three different map scales and had to measure from Main Street in Chico to the railroad tracks. Each of the maps In this assignment we interpreted our initial measurement explaining how these few inches could represent such a large amount of land. At the completion of this assignment we gathered into a group and were asked to explain the map scale ratio and what it represented. We explained that in each map, one inch or one centimeter represents a much larger amount of inches or centimeters of actual land. We also understood that the smaller maps had smaller measurements represent larger amounts of land than the larger measurements
http://mikey.ourdigitalplanet.net/map-and-scale-reasoning/
The second example is our “Interpreting graphs” assignment. I really enjoyed this assignment because it portrayed just how specific maps can be. In this assignment we were given various graphs and various scenarios. Each graph was a representation of a scenario and the objective was to match the graphical representation with the correlating scenario. In order to successfully complete the assignment we had to know how time and distance correlated with negative and positive slopes of the graph. If one knew how speeding up, slowing down, and changing directions changes the slope of the graph, then he/she could then correctly interpret each graph. This exercise showed me just how important is it is to understand that graphs tell a very precise story in an equally-precise language and the only way to know the story is by speaking the language.
http://mikey.ourdigitalplanet.net/interpreting-graphs/
The final example that I will provide is the assignment named “team demographics.” The purpose of this assignment was to get my team to create a target audience for our serious game. This assignment appeared challenging at first because we weren’t sure at all what our game was going to be at the time. However, it became easier upon explanation. We were supposed to start wide and circle in on the target audience. At the completion of this assignment there was a graphical representation created that each team had to interpret to the class. Our graph consisted of a large rectangle, with two consequently smaller rectangles. We explained that the first rectangle included all the residents in Chico, the next rectangle consisted of only Chico State students and the smallest one only consisted of Chico State sophomores. This created a target-shaped graph.