Where Is My Arrow Pointing Lesson

Learning Resource Type

Learning Activity

Subject Area

Mathematics

Grade(s)

9, 10, 11, 12

Overview

This learning activity will be used during a lesson on Finding the Components of a Vector.  Students will learn how to find the components of a vector by subtracting the coordinates of an initial point from the coordinates of a terminal point.  The teacher will use the Where Is My Arrow Pointing Lesson to cover the “I DO” and “We Do” portions of the lesson.

This activity was created as a result of the ALEX Resource Development Summit.

Phase

During/Explore/Explain
Mathematics (2019) Grade(s): 09-12 - Precalculus

MA19.PRE.9

Find the components of a vector by subtracting the coordinates of an initial point from the coordinates of a terminal point.

UP:MA19.PRE.9

Vocabulary

  • Components
  • Initial Point
  • Terminal Point

Knowledge

Students know:
  • If a vector is transposed in the xy-plane, it retains its magnitude and direction.

Skills

Students are able to:
  • Transpose a vector from one position to another position in the xy-plane.
  • Find the component form of a vector.

Understanding

Students understand that:
  • Vectors having the same magnitude and direction are equivalent regardless of where they are in the xy-plane.
  • Vectors in standard position have a terminal point that is equal to the components of the vector.

Learning Objectives

Students will be able to find the components of a vector by subtracting the coordinates of an initial point from the coordinates of a terminal point. 

Activity Details

This learning activity will be used during a lesson on Finding the Components of a Vector.  Students will learn how to find the components of a vector by subtracting the coordinates of an initial point from the coordinates of a terminal point.  

During/Explore/Explain

(I DO)

  • The teacher will demonstrate how to find the components of a vector by subtracting the coordinates of an initial point from the coordinates of a terminal point by providing examples visually and explaining verbally in detail using the Where Is My Arrow Pointing Lesson.
  • Students will observe, take notes, using their math journals or paper, and ask questions.
  • The teacher will have the students turn and talk about any misconceptions they may have at this point in the lesson. 

(We DO)

  • The teacher will say, "We will now collaborate and discuss various types of components of vectors using the 'We DO' section of the Where Is My Arrow Pointing Lesson."
  • The teacher will issue whiteboards, pens, and erasers to the class. 
  • The teacher will ask students to work the “We DO” problems on their whiteboards holding them up as they find each answer for the teacher to check. (This will be used as a formative assessment to see if students understand the lesson.)
  • Important: The teacher will need to verbally discuss any problems and have students explain their thinking to ensure solidification of understanding.

(You DO)

  • The teacher will hand out the “You DO” section of the Where Is My Arrow Pointing Lesson.
  • The teacher will monitor students as they complete the worksheet.
  • The teacher will remind the students the worksheet will be graded for accuracy.

Assessment Strategies

  • The teacher will monitor students as they complete the “You DO”  section to provide timely feedback to help eliminate any misconceptions.
  • Upon completion, the teacher will take up the completed worksheet and ensure at least 80% mastery of the skill.
  • After the assessment has been completed, the teacher should have meaningful dialogue on the process and procedures for finding components of a vector. 
  • Students should be allowed to collaborate and work problems out on the board for clarity for those who are still having trouble.

Variation Tips

Background / Preparation

  • The teacher will need copies of the “You DO” section of the Where is My Arrow Pointing Lesson in advance. (Consider printing 2 pages per page to save paper.)
  • The teacher will provide each student with a whiteboard, a dry erase pen, and an eraser for the “We DO” section.
  • The students will need math journals if used for notes or paper if math journals are not used.
  • The teacher will need Internet access and the required equipment to display the Where is My Arrow Pointing Lesson.
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