This week I have decided to talk about the digital image word problem. The project required all students to take a picture of something fascinating and to create a mathematics problem based on that image. I think the idea for the project is quite interesting. In particular, I think it is great way to attempt to differentiate instruction for mathematics. Too often mathematics is taught and understood in a theoretical and abstract manner. With the digital image we are able to show the practical application of mathematics and really establish a solid practical use for mathematical applications. I think developing a good practical understanding for mathematics is an important component for keeping students interested and engaged.
Once I learned about this project Thales using his shadow to measure the great pyramids of Giza sprung to my mind (see image above). Thales provides an ingenious solution to solving the measurement problem as to the height of the pyramid by using his shadow. This is analogous to the digital image project for the class. That is, we were sent out to discover something interesting in the world, identify its mathematical components, and to create problem for which we could provide a solution. Thales provides the quintessential example for such a problem by measuring the iconic pyramids using the proportions of shadows.
Finally, I think if I were to use this project for my students I would probably reverse the roles. That is, rather than find an image and create a problem from it for the students to solve, I would ask the students to find their own image and to create their own problem to solve. I would probably provide detailed guidelines and examples depending on the grade level. However, all in all, this was a fun project to be involved in and I would recommend doing something similar with other classes in the future.
Finally, I think if I were to use this project for my students I would probably reverse the roles. That is, rather than find an image and create a problem from it for the students to solve, I would ask the students to find their own image and to create their own problem to solve. I would probably provide detailed guidelines and examples depending on the grade level. However, all in all, this was a fun project to be involved in and I would recommend doing something similar with other classes in the future.
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