Integers Webquest

Introduction

The editor for the school newspaper has gotten several letters from 6th grade students saying that they do not understand integers. Because there is a test coming up, something needs to be done and you can help! In order for students to understand integers, the editor has decided to let you create a magazine to help them out. 

 

Task

For this webquest you will create a magazine about integers. Make sure you include each of the following:

1) A catchy title for your math magazine

2) A table of contents showing what topics will be in your magazine

3) Integer vocabulary

4) Rules for adding and subtracting integers

5) Two common methods for adding and subtracting integers

6) The adding and subtracting method you like best

7) A colorful advertisement explaining how to multiply and divide integers

8) Examples of how integers are used and/or found in the real world

9) A completed coordinate plane 

*Each completed task should be NO LONGER than one page in your magazine*

Process

Complete each of the following tasks in your finished magazine. Be sure to follow all of the directions under each part. 

*Your finished magazine should only be 8 pages long (one page for each section)*

Part 1: Create a catchy title and cover design for your magazine

This is the first thing that people will see when they read your magazine, so make sure the cover catches your eye. The title of your magazine should have something to do with math or integers (since this is what your magazine is about). Make sure to include pictures and your name on the cover.

Part 2: Table of Contents

Include a table of contents that list each of the different parts that will be included in your magazine. Make sure to title this page "Table of Contents."

Part 3: Integer Vocabulary

Use your textbook, notes from class or one of the vocabulary websites below to define the following integer terms.  Write the definition in your own words and example for each.

1) Integer

2) Opposite

3) Positive Number

4) Negative Number

5) Absolute Value

Possible websites for definitions:

http://www.mathgoodies.com/lessons/vol5/intro_integers.html

http://www.math.com/school/subject1/lessons/S1U1L10GL.html

http://www.mathslideshows.com/products/integers

Part 4: Rules for Adding and Subtracting Integers

Include a page in your magazine that explain the rules of integers. You need to include an example (math problem) with each of the explanations.  Write each explanation in your own words, use correct math terminology, and make it understandable. Use your math textbook, class notes or one of the following websites to help you. 

Explain each of the following: 

  • How to add two integers that have the same sign (both positive and both negative). Make sure that you explain how to determine the sum’s sign.
  • How to add two integers if they have different signs. Explain how to determine the sum’s sign.
  • How to subtract two integers that have the same signs (both positive and both negative).
  • How to subtract two integers that have different signs.

Possible websites for rules:

http://amby.com/educate/math/integer.html

http://www.mathguide.com/lessons/Integers.html

http://www.homeschoolmath.net/download/Add_Subtract_Integers_Fact_Sheet.pdf

http://www.mathslideshows.com/products/integers

Part 5: Methods for Adding and Subtracting Integers

In class we talked about several methods to use in order to add and subtract integers. In this part of your magazine, you will need to explain and demonstrate at least two different methods you can use to add and subract integers. You should include both pictures/diagrams and at least one example of the method. You can use your math textbook, the models drawn in your notebook from class, or any of the websites below to help you. 

Possible websites for methods:

http://www.helpingwithmath.com/by_subject/integers/int_adding_subtracting.htm

http://www.virtualnerd.com/search/search.php?query=adding+and+subtracting+integers+using+a+number+line&search=1

http://mathstar.lacoe.edu/newmedia/integers/add/guides/guides.html

http://regentsprep.org/Regents/math/ALGEBRA/AOP3/TRtiles.htm

http://www.homeschoolmath.net/download/Add_Subtract_Integers_Fact_Sheet.pdf

http://www.mathslideshows.com/products/integers

Part 6: Choose the Addition and Subtraction Method You Like Best

Out of the two methods that you previously described, choose the one you like best. Write a paragraph (at least 4 sentences) explaining the method you like to use best and why? Please be specific in your answer. PLEASE BE DON'T JUST SAY IT'S EASY OR BECAUSE THE OTHER ONES WERE DIFFICULT.

Part 7: Create an Advertisement on Muliplication and Division

Time to get creative! Use what you have learned in class and the links below to create a colorful advertisement that shows the rules for how to multiply and divide integers. Include a slogan or saying, don't just write the rules for multiplying and dividing integers.

Be sure to include:

  • How you multiply and divide integers that have the same sign (both positive and both negative).
  • How you multiply and divide integers that have different signs.

Possible websites for multiplying and dividing integers:

http://www.math.com/school/subject1/lessons/S1U1L12DP.html

http://www.algebra-class.com/multiplying-integers.html

Part 8: Integers in the Real World

How does learning about integers help us in the real world? In this part, come up with three examples of how integers are use in your everyday life. You can use the links below if you need help finding examples. Be sure to include both positive and negative numbers and clearly show you understand how integers are used for each example. DO NOT JUST COPY EXAMPLES FROM ONE OF THE LINKS. Each explanation should be at least 4 sentences long. You may include any pictures, diagrams, or illustrations to help your explanation. 

Possible websites for integers in the real world:

http://mathcentral.uregina.ca/beyond/articles/Integers/integer1.html

http://www.mathgoodies.com/lessons/vol5/challenge_vol5.html

Part 9: Coordinate Planes

In the final part of your magazine, you will be creating a picture using a coordinate plane. Please go to GRADE 6 on the Portal. Here you will find a folder titled "Integer Webquest." Decide if you want to create a beginner, medium, hard, or expert picture. *Note* If you choose expert, please see your teacher for the coordinates and the graph paper.  

Print out the coordinate plane, color the mystery picture that you create, and include it at the end of your magazine.

For help remembering how to plot coordinates on a coordinate plane, you can refer to the following websites:

http://www.mathopenref.com/coordplane.html

http://learnzillion.com/lessonsets/192-graph-points-in-all-four-quadrants-on-the-coordinate-plane-to-solve-realworld-and-mathematical-problems

http://www.oswego.org/ocsd-web/games/BillyBug2/bug2.html

 

Evaluation

Magazine Rubric

*This is the rubric that will be used to determine your final grade, remember this is a MAJOR assessment*

 

5 pts

4 pts

3 pts

2 pts

1 pt

Deadline

All sections are completed and magazine is turned in on time.

All sections are completed but the magazine is turned in 1 day late. 

All sections are completed but the magazine is turned in 2 days late. 

All sections are completed but the magazine is turned in 3 days late. 

All sections are completed but the magazine is turned in 4 or more days late. 

Title and Cover

 

The magazine cover is presented with a math-related title, at least one picture, and student's name. It is clear, organized and easy to read.

The magazine cover is presented with a title, at least one picture, and student's name. It is somewhat organized and easy to read.

The magazine cover is missing either a title, picture, or student's name. It is difficult to understand.

The magazine cover only includes one of the following: title, picture, name.

The magazine cover is difficult to understand, it is hard to know what information goes together.

Table of Contents

Table of contents is complete with title and includes all 7 sections of the magazine.

Table of contents missing either a title or one section of the magazine.

Table of contents is missing 2 of the requirements.

Table of contents is missing 3 of the requirements.

Table of contents is hard to read, has no title, and is missing more than 4 of the sections.

Integer Vocabulary

 

All 5 vocabulary words are written in student’s own words and an example is present for each.

Either one vocabulary word or example is missing. Definitions are not in student’s own words.

Two vocabulary words or examples are missing.

Three vocabulary words or examples are missing.

Four vocabulary words or examples are missing.

Rules for Adding and Subtracting Integers

The four rules for adding and subtracting integers are explained and an example is provided,

The four rules for adding and subtracting integers are explained but 1-2 examples are missing.

One of the rules for adding and subtracting integers is missing or more than 2 examples are missing.

Two of the rules for adding and subtracting are missing or only 1 example is provided.

Only one rule is given and no examples.

Methods for Adding and Subtracting Integers

Two methods for adding and subtracting integers are explained in clear detail and include pictures/diagrams, and at least one example.

Two methods for adding and subtracting integers are explained with some detail and may be missing pictures/diagrams, and at least one example.

Two methods for adding and subtracting integers are explained but missing pictures/diagrams, and at least one example.

Only one method for adding and subtracting integers is explained and includes pictures/diagrams and at least one example.

Only one method for adding and subtracting integers is explained but missing pictures/diagrams and at least one example.

Paragraph on preferred method

Student writes at least 4 sentences explaining in detail the method he/she prefers and why.

Student writes 2-3 sentences explaining the method he/she prefers. Some detail is used.

Student writes 2-3 sentences, with little detail on the reasons why that method is preferred.

Student writes 1 sentence stating the method he/she prefers with little detail explaining why.

Student only states the method preferred but no details explaining why.

Multiplication and Division Advertisement

The rules for both multiplying and dividing integers are included and accurate in the advertisement. The advertisement is colored and includes a slogan.

The rules for both multiplying and dividing integers are included and accurate in the advertisement. The advertisement is missing color or a slogan.

The rules for both multiplying and dividing integers are included and accurate in the advertisement. The advertisement is missing both color and a slogan.

Only one of the rules for multiplying and dividing integers are included, or one is incorrect. There is no color or slogan in the advertisement.

 

The rules for multiplying and dividing integers are inaccurate or not included at all in the advertisement. There is no color or slogan in the advertisement.

Examples of Integers in the real world

Three examples are given, each explained with 4 sentences. Explanations are complete and involve both positive and negative examples.

Three examples are given, but all do not have 4 sentences. Explanations are complete and involve both positive and negative examples.

Three examples are given, but all do not have 4 sentences. Explanations are are missing an example of both positive and negative integers.

Only two examples are given, and do not have 4 sentences. Explanations are are missing an example of both positive and negative integers.

Only one example is given and is not written with 4 sentences.  The explanation is missing an example of both positive and negative integers.

Coordinate plane

A complete and accurate picture, created on a coordinate plane is included and colored.

A complete and accurate picture, created on a coordinate plane is included but not colored.

The completed picture created on a coordinate plane has no more than 3 incorrect coordinates.

The completed picture created on a coordinate plane has no more than 5 incorrect coordinates.

The picture has a majority of coordinates incorrect and the picture is not colored in.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have finshed your first magazine! The editor of the school newspaper and your fellow students are very grateful!