Rhinos and M&M's®
(Exponential Models)
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Objective
The objectives of this lesson are for students to explore the patterns of exponential
models in tables, graphs, and symbolic forms and to apply what they have learned to
make predictions in a real situation.
Overview of the Lesson
In activities that use paper folding and M&M’s, students will collect data, create
scatterplots, and determine algebraic models that represent their functions. Students
begin this lesson by collecting data within their groups. They fold a sheet of paper
and determine the area of the smallest region after each fold. Next they draw a
scatterplot of their data and determine by hand an algebraic model for it. After
determining this algebraic model by hand, students collect exponential decay data
using M&M’s and use the graphing calculator to determine a model for this data.
Both investigations allow students to explore the patterns of exponential models in
tables, graphs, and symbolic form. The final activity provides an opportunity for
students to apply what they know about exponential models to future populations
of African Rhinos.
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