Mr Math Weeney is workshops across Ireland with the showcase event being Juggling Quadratic Equations
The topics covered include:
- Composite and prime numbers - Algebra
- Plotting points - Poetry
- Quadratic functions in various forms - Reflections on the learning process
- Translations - Learning from failure
- Patterns - The iterative process
- Turning points - Points of intersection
The activity involves students trying the skills of juggling and using quadratic graphs to model the path of each ball. All that students will need to bring is a pen and pencil, I'll provide the juggling balls and worksheets.
The event works best with groups up to 30, but smaller sizes allow for deeper engagement
The event is very structured. Students will be guided through each stage and will only juggle when told to do so. The teacher has full right and responsibility to remove a student if they are not participating in an appropriate manner. Work will be provided if they are not partaking properly. The task is an active learning exercise. Expect there to be some noise and laughing, that's part of the fun. I would appeal to teachers who have energy and enjoy out of the seat learning.