Darren Hutchings & Diana Wilkes

Using Model It in Year 7 : Our learning activity is as follows:

Inquiry Question: How does the flu spread???

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Task- Your task is to create a prediction about the inquiry question and then using Model It design a model to test your prediction Learning Outcome: Extrapolate data from a graph to solve problems & Interpret line graphs to draw conclusions Success Criteria: before Model It: generate a testable prediction in Model It select: o at least 4 objects (1 image imported yourself) o at least 2 independent variables and 2 dependent variables o at least 3 causal-effectual relationships test the model and generate a line graph interpret the resulting graph and identify the relationships between all the dependent and independent variables _______________________________________________________________________

Procedure: using the 5 Es approach

1. Engage: show students the National Geographic video of Flu Virus http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&feature=endscreen&v=TVLo2CtB3GA to mentally

engage students in the concept (spread of disease) to be learned before the skill (interpreting line graphs) to be learned and each students creates a prediction based on the inquiry question How does the flu spread?
2. Explore: students are introduced to Model It- teacher demonstrates how to use the: Plan Function

Students select the appropriate module from FileNew students select objects from the communicable disease module (or download their own images)by drag and drop ensure one is the background ensure enough objects to make relationships and test your prediction

Darren Hutchings & Diana Wilkes

Build function

Click on relationship to determine how the variables are related Click on variable to select objects, make them variables and select text range

Test function

Click on meter and then select all the variables you want to test- a resulting sliding meter will appear Adjust the sliding scale to where you want the simulation to begin Press play

**now the students create their own model (following the SC) to test their prediction and generate a line graph

Darren Hutchings & Diana Wilkes

3. Explain: Students interpret the resulting graph to analyse the relationship between all the dependent and independent variables. Share your results with a partner and see if he/she has any questions. What is different about your model from that of the teacher?

4. Evaluate: Students examine the resulting line graph and extrapolate the data to draw a conclusion. Did the results make sense? What do they tell you? Was your prediction correct? How could you manipulate the model so the resulting graph has numbers/scales? Do you need to adjust your model or make a new prediction?

5. Elaborate: Research and predict the cost of physician time, substitute worker time, work production, medicine costs etc. when the flu spreads rapidly. Draw a line graph by hand. Research and debate the pro and cons of closing a factory, store, school, etc in hopes of stopping the spread of a virus?