This unit started with finding the parabola of a rocket that is being fired from a rooftop. After that, we had to familiarize ourselves with the graphing website called Desmos, we just needed to figure out what variables (a, x, h, and k) in the quadratic equations change what about the shape of the parabolas. From there we practiced vertex form and got used to the structure y=a(x-h)+k where we continued our research of parabolas. Then we looked at the x-intercepts where the parabola intersects with the x-axis. Then we did Squares and Expansions where we were introduced to completing the square where we worked a lot more with when we did the Practice and Word Problem packets that were all about completing the squares and solving for a in the quadratic equations. Once we were comfortable with that we practiced going from standard form to vertex and vice versa. Lastly, we made these quadratic postcards where we picked something with a curve and found the x and y intercepts, the vertex, and the final answer for the equation of that parabola. The purpose of this activity is to check our understanding as well as help us see the relationship between what we are learning and our everyday life. Everyone had to pick something that had a curve and had to make a postcard with their solution for the quadratic equation in regard to the object they picked.
I think finding an object was the hardest part for me. I also got really confused while doing the math because I was never sure I was doing it right until I used Desmos to check my answers. I got really caught up in all of the help I was trying to get online and it ended up confusing me even more when in reality I already knew how to get the right answer. All I needed to do was simply check my answer on Desmos which I ended up doing. I think somethings that went well was the format of my postcard, I think it's very easy to read and analyze. I also really like the graph I was able to make! I think I would find something more doable sooner because I was left needing to start this entire project over the night before it was due. I think something I should've asked for was a list of ideas that could inspire me or I could use to do this project and avoid all of my confuse and lack of productivity.